Three Coins Method

The three-coin method represents the perfect balance between accessibility and authenticity in I Ching consultation. Developed as a practical alternative to the complex yarrow stalk ritual, this approach maintains the traditional probability ratios while making consultation available to anyone with three coins and sincere intent.

The Beauty of Simplicity

What makes the three-coin method so enduring is its elegant simplicity. With just three coins and a clear understanding of the process, you can access the full wisdom of the I Ching anywhere, anytime. This accessibility has made it the most widely practiced casting method worldwide.

Historical Development

The coin method emerged during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE) as scholars and practitioners sought more practical approaches to hexagram generation. While maintaining respect for the yarrow stalk tradition, the coin method offered a way to preserve the essential spiritual and mathematical aspects of consultation while dramatically reducing complexity.

The Sacred Mathematics

The three-coin method preserves the traditional probability ratios:

• Yang line (—): 3/8 probability (most stable)
• Yin line (- -): 5/8 probability (receptive)
• Changing Yang (old yang): 1/8 probability (transformation from strength)
• Changing Yin (old yin): 1/8 probability (transformation from receptivity)

These ratios reflect the I Ching’s understanding that change is less common than stability, and that transformation represents moments of particular significance.

Essential Equipment

🪙 Choosing Your Coins

While any three identical coins can work, many practitioners prefer:

• Chinese I Ching coins: Traditional coins with square holes
• Contemporary coins: Three identical coins from your own currency
• Special considerations: Coins should be of the same type and size

🎯 Designating Values

Traditional assignment:

• Heads (Yang): Value of 3
• Tails (Yin): Value of 2

Totals and their meanings:

• 6 (2+2+2): Old Yin - changing line
• 7 (2+2+3): Young Yang - stable line
• 8 (2+3+3): Young Yin - stable line
• 9 (3+3+3): Old Yang - changing line

The Casting Process

🧘 Preparation

1. Center yourself with brief meditation or breathing
2. Hold your question clearly in mind
3. Handle the coins respectfully, warming them in your hands
4. Create sacred space free from distractions

🎯 The Six Throws

1. Cast all three coins simultaneously for the first line (bottom)
2. Record the result and note if it’s changing
3. Repeat five more times working upward
4. Build the hexagram from bottom to top

📝 Recording Your Cast

Keep careful records:

• Date and time of consultation
• Question asked (exact wording)
• Each line result (6, 7, 8, or 9)
• Primary hexagram number
• Changing lines (if any)
• Transformed hexagram (if applicable)

Spiritual Dimensions

🌟 The Rhythm of Consultation

The three-coin method creates its own meditative rhythm. The repeated casting, the sound of coins, the building of the hexagram line by line—all contribute to a contemplative state that opens the heart and mind to guidance.

🎭 Balancing Simplicity and Reverence

While mechanically simple, the coin method maintains the spiritual depth of I Ching consultation. The key lies in approaching each cast with respect, attention, and genuine openness to guidance.

🔄 The Element of Synchronicity

C.G. Jung famously collaborated with Richard Wilhelm in exploring the I Ching, emphasizing the role of synchronicity—meaningful coincidence—in the consultation process. The coin method, in its apparent randomness, creates space for these meaningful patterns to emerge.

Common Variations

📿 Different Coin Traditions

• Western adaptation: Using familiar currency
• Sacred coin sets: Specially chosen or blessed coins
• Traveling sets: Pocket-sized coins for consultation anywhere

🎯 Timing Considerations

• Daily consultation: Quick guidance for daily decisions
• Weekly reflection: Deeper questions about ongoing situations
• Special occasions: Major life transitions or significant decisions

Building Your Practice

📅 Developing Consistency

Regular practice with the three-coin method builds familiarity and confidence. Many practitioners establish regular consultation times, creating rhythm and continuity in their relationship with the oracle.

🎨 Personal Adaptations

While maintaining the essential structure, practitioners often develop personal touches:

• Special coin pouches or containers
• Particular casting surfaces or cloths
• Pre-consultation rituals or prayers
• Post-consultation reflection practices

Advantages of the Coin Method

• Accessibility: Available anywhere with three coins
• Speed: Complete hexagram in minutes
• Authenticity: Maintains traditional probability ratios
• Simplicity: Easy to learn and remember
• Portability: Perfect for travel consultation

Integration with Interpretation

The three-coin method serves as the foundation for all subsequent interpretation work. Its reliability and consistency make it an excellent platform for developing interpretive skills, as practitioners can focus on meaning rather than complex casting procedures.

Through mastering the three-coin method, you gain access to a consultation practice that has served countless practitioners for over two millennia—simple in execution, profound in possibility.