2025 I Ching Online Divination Complete Guide: From Tradition to AI, Master Decision-Making Auxiliary Tools in 3 Minutes

Are you also confused by these questions?

Last week, a reader messaged me: “I’m facing a career choice recently, and a friend suggested I try I Ching divination, but the information online is too chaotic. Some say to learn Bagua and the Five Elements, others say to memorize all 64 hexagrams. After looking for a long time, I’m still confused. As a modern person, how exactly should I use the I Ching?”

This is not an isolated case. The most frequently asked questions we receive on the Cast64 platform are:

• “Can I Ching divination really help with decision-making, or is it just psychological comfort?”
• “Without traditional copper coins, can I divine with my phone?”
• “Main hexagram, changing hexagram, moving line… these terms are too professional. Can you explain them in plain language?”
• “What’s the difference between AI interpretation and traditional interpretation?”

If you have similar questions, this article is for you. I will use the most straightforward language and the fewest technical terms to guide you through the complete process of online I Ching divination in 15 minutes. More importantly, you will understand its true value in modern life—not predicting the future, but illuminating the present.

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1. The Essence of I Ching Divination: A Decision-Making Aid, Not Fortune-Telling

1.1 Confucius’s Regret in His Later Years

In 479 BC, at the age of 72, Confucius said in the last moments of his life: “Grant me a few more years, and if I had studied the I Ching at fifty, I might have been free from great errors.” (If I had studied the I Ching earlier, I would have made fewer major mistakes in life.)

This founder of Confucianism repeatedly studied the I Ching in his later years, so much so that the leather thongs binding his bamboo slips broke three times—this is the origin of the idiom “Wei Bian San Jue” (韋編三絕), meaning “the thongs on the bamboo slips broke three times”). He eventually wrote the seminal commentary on the I Ching, “Ten Wings,” among which the most famous is “The movement of heaven is full of power. Thus the superior man makes himself strong and untiring.”

Think: Why did a sage at the pinnacle of wisdom spend so much effort studying this book in the last years of his life?

The answer is simple: The I Ching is a system of decision-making thought. Through 64 basic models (hexagrams), it describes typical patterns of life and development. When you face a choice, it doesn’t tell you “what will happen,” but rather “if you do this, here’s what might happen”—this is the core of decision science.

1.2 Why Do Modern People Need the I Ching?

In 2025, we have infinitely more information and choices than the ancients. But the more choices, the greater the anxiety.

Psychological research shows that when faced with more than 3 options, people’s decision quality significantly decreases (paradox of choice). What the I Ching offers is precisely a structured thinking framework:

• Forced Pause: The divination process makes you pause your anxiety and calmly think.
• Multi-Dimensional Perspective: Hexagrams and line texts examine problems from different angles.
• Psychological Suggestion: The interpretation process activates your subconscious wisdom.

Psychologist Carl Jung introduced the I Ching into psychotherapy, considering it a tool for exploring “synchronicity”—the resonance between external hexagrams and internal psychological states.

Core Positioning: I Ching Divination = Decision Aid + Self-Dialogue + Psychological Healing

1.3 Online Divination vs. Traditional Divination: Tool Evolution, Core Unchanged

Many question: “Divining with a phone lacks ritual. Is it still accurate?”

The essence of this question is: The tool is the medium, sincerity is key.

Comparison Dimension	Traditional Copper Coin Divination	Online Divination (e.g., Cast64)
Core Principle	Randomness + Psychological Projection	Randomness + Psychological Projection (exactly the same)
Advantages	Strong ritualistic feel, high concentration	Convenient, complete records, AI-assisted interpretation
Disadvantages	Requires tools, troublesome to consult classics	Requires self-discipline (avoiding casual inquiries)
Applicable Scenes	Major decisions, quiet contemplation at home	Daily dilemmas, fragmented time

Key Insight: 3000 years ago, there was no computing power. King Wen of Zhou summarized the 64 hexagram models through excellent abstraction. In 2025, we have large AI language models that can integrate historical commentaries, modern psychology, and your specific situation to provide more precise interpretations.

This is not replacing tradition, but revitalizing it.

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2. Core Concepts in a Flash: What are the Main Hexagram, Changing Hexagram, and Moving Lines?

Before practical application, we must understand 3 core concepts. Don’t worry, I’ll explain them using the simplest analogies.

2.1 Main Hexagram: A Snapshot of the Current State

Main Hexagram = The current state of your question

Imagine you took a picture of a tree; that picture is the “Main Hexagram.” It reflects the basic pattern of things at this very moment.

For instance, if you get the Chun (屯) Hexagram (☵☳), the hexagram statement is “Primary success. Advantageous to be firm and correct. Do not use for going anywhere. Advantageous to constitute feudal princes.” In plain language: Things are just starting, full of difficulties. Don’t rush into action; it’s suitable to establish roots and build strength.

2.2 Moving Lines: The Driving Force of Change

Moving Line = The key point that is undergoing change

Still referring to that tree, if a branch is budding, or a leaf is withering, these “changing” parts are the moving lines.

A hexagram has 6 lines (yao), from bottom to top:

• Initial line (bottom-most)
• Second line
• Third line
• Fourth line
• Fifth line
• Top line (top-most)

The text of the moving line is the core of the entire divination, telling you the nature and direction of the change.

2.3 Changing Hexagram: Projection of Future Trends

Changing Hexagram = If you follow the changes, the possible direction of things

After the moving line changes, the main hexagram transforms into another hexagram, which is the “Changing Hexagram.” It’s not a definite future, but a possibility of trends.

Example:

• Main Hexagram: Chun (屯) Hexagram (difficulty in beginning)
• Moving line: Ninth in the fifth place (a positive line in the position of a leader)
• Line text: “In the thickets of Chun, its ointment. Small righteousness is auspicious, great righteousness is inauspicious.” (Be cautious and discreet, then it’s auspicious; impetuousness is inauspicious.)
• Changing Hexagram: Bi (比) Hexagram (☵☷, union and assistance)
• Interpretation: Current difficulties, but if you act cautiously and seek cooperation (as suggested by the ninth five line), you will enter a situation of mutual help and win-win.

2.4 Diagram of the Relationship between the Three

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3. Practical Exercise: 3 Real Cases, Understanding How I Ching Aids Decision-Making

Now that theory is covered, let’s look at how real users leveraged the I Ching to make choices at critical moments.

Case 1: Entrepreneur’s Directional Choice (Career Decision)

Background: Li Ming (pseudonym), after working at a major internet company for 5 years, conceived the idea of starting a business in early 2024. He had two directions: Direction A was familiar SaaS tools (stable but competitive), and Direction B was AI + education (emerging but high-risk). After a month of indecision, he consulted the I Ching on Cast64.

Question: “Is it suitable for me to choose the AI education direction for my startup now?”

Hexagram Result:

• Main Hexagram: Meng (蒙) Hexagram (☶☵) - “It is not I who seek the youthful fool; the youthful fool seeks me.”
• Moving Line: Third in the sixth place - “Do not take a woman who has seen a rich man. Without her body, there will be no advantage.”
• Changing Hexagram: Jian (蹇) Hexagram (☶☵) - “Advantageous in the southwest, disadvantageous in the northeast.”

Core points of AI interpretation:

1. The Meng Hexagram symbolizes enlightenment and the learning phase, implying he is still a “student” in the AI education field.
2. The text of the third line warns: “Do not take a woman who has seen a rich man. Without her body, there will be no advantage” – do not be tempted by superficial gains (rich man) and lose control (without her body).
3. The Jian Hexagram represents difficult progress, and “Advantageous in the southwest” suggests starting from a familiar field (southwest symbolizes Kun, meaning stability).

Li Ming’s Decision: He ultimately chose the SaaS direction but incorporated AI features for differentiation. Six months later, his product gained recognition in a niche market. He later said: “The hexagram made me realize that my understanding of AI education was still shallow (Meng hexagram), and if I rushed into it, I might be co-opted by capital and lose my way (seeing a rich man). Starting with SaaS allowed me to slowly learn about AI.”

Insight: The I Ching doesn’t tell you “choose A or choose B,” but rather reveals your blind spots.

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Case 2: Programmer’s Job-Hopping Timing (Career Decision)

Background: Zhang Yue (pseudonym) had been a technical lead at a startup for 2 years. In September 2024, she received an offer from a major company with a 50% salary increase. But she hesitated: Her current company had just secured Series B funding, and the boss had promised stock options; while the big company was stable, she might just be a small cog in a big machine.

Question: “Is the timing ripe for me to switch to a big company now?”

Hexagram Result:

• Main Hexagram: Jian (漸) Hexagram (☶☴) - “The marrying maiden. Auspicious. Advantageous to be firm and correct.”
• Moving Line: Third in the ninth place - “The wild geese gradually approach the dry land. The husband goes out and does not return. The wife is pregnant but does not give birth. Inauspicious. Advantageous to guard against invaders.”
• Changing Hexagram: Gu (蠱) Hexagram (☶☴)

Core points of AI interpretation:

1. The Jian Hexagram emphasizes “gradual progress” (wild geese gradually migrating), indicating that haste is not advisable.
2. The ninth three line is at the top of the lower trigram, suggesting that she has reached a temporary peak in her current position, but change would come with a price (“The husband goes out and does not return. The wife is pregnant but does not give birth”).
3. The Gu Hexagram represents rectification and reform, indicating that the new environment requires her to re-prove herself.

Zhang Yue’s Decision: She decided to postpone job-hopping but explicitly discussed the stock option vesting schedule with her boss. Three months later, the company’s product launched, and she received stock options for leading the architecture. She said: “The Jian Hexagram made me realize that my value at the startup hadn’t been fully realized yet; leaving now would be an ‘unripe migration’.”

Insight: Sometimes, what the hexagram helps you see is not an external opportunity, but what you truly want internally.

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Case 3: Choices in a Relationship (Emotional Decision)

Background: Wang Fang (pseudonym) and her boyfriend had been in a relationship for 3 years. In August 2024, her boyfriend proposed moving to a different city (Beijing to Shanghai) for a year to develop his career. She was torn: Should she follow him and give up her job, or test their relationship long-distance?

Question: “Should I follow him to Shanghai in this relationship?”

Hexagram Result:

• Main Hexagram: Xu (需) Hexagram (☵☰) - “Having sincerity. Great penetration and success. Firmness is auspicious. Advantageous to cross the great stream.”
• Moving Line: Fifth in the ninth place - “Waiting with wine and food. Firmness is auspicious.”
• Changing Hexagram: Tai (泰) Hexagram (☷☰)

Core points of AI interpretation:

1. The name of the Xu Hexagram is “Waiting”; the core idea is “the time is not yet ripe, patience is needed.”
2. The ninth five line, “Waiting with wine and food,” suggests cultivating herself and accumulating energy while waiting.
3. The Tai Hexagram (Heaven and Earth in Union) implies that if they can maintain the present and grow individually, a good outcome will follow.

Wang Fang’s Decision: She chose to stay in Beijing but visited Shanghai once a month. A year later, her boyfriend’s career stabilized, and he voluntarily transferred back to Beijing; they then married. She said: “The Xu Hexagram made me understand that love is not about immediate sacrifice, but about mutual journey after individual growth (Tai Hexagram).”

Insight: The wisdom of the I Ching lies in “contending without contending”—sometimes not rushing into action is the best action.

→ View more real cases in the divination square

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4. How-To Guide: Completing Your First Divination on Cast64

Now, it’s your turn to try. Follow these steps to complete the entire process in 3 minutes.

Step 1: Calm Your Mind and Ask Your Question (2 minutes)

Preparation:

• Find a quiet, undisturbed space (turn off social media notifications).
• Take 3 deep breaths to calm your mind.

Question Principles (Important!):

✅ Good Questions:

• “What should I pay attention to if I quit my job and start a business now?”
• “What is the trend for the development of this relationship?”
• “What challenges will I face if I accept this job offer?”

❌ Bad Questions:

• “Will I get rich?” (Too vague)
• “Does he/she love me?” (Yes/no question, I Ching is not good at this)
• “Will the stock market rise tomorrow?” (Short-term prediction, meaningless)

Question Formula: “In [specific situation], regarding [specific matter], how should I [verb]?”

Step 2: Online Casting (30 seconds)

Visit Cast64 Divination Tool There are two methods:

Method A: Virtual Coin Toss

• Click “Start Divination”
• Click the “Toss Coin” button 6 times consecutively (the system simulates three copper coins)
• The system automatically records and generates the hexagram.

Method B: Manual Input

• If you divined with real coins, you can manually enter each result.
• Choose “Yin Line” or “Yang Line,” and mark if it’s a changing line.

Step 3: Interpreting the Hexagram (5-minute basic version / 1 hour+ for in-depth study)

Basic Interpretation Path (for beginners):

1. Look at the main hexagram’s name and statement

   • Hexagram name: Basic nature of the matter (e.g., “Chun” = difficult beginning)
   • Hexagram statement: Overall trend assessment

2. Focus on the text of the moving lines

   • If there is only 1 moving line: This is the core information.
   • If there are multiple moving lines: Focus on the highest one (usually the most crucial).
   • If there are no moving lines: Refer to the main hexagram statement.

3. Refer to the changing hexagram

   • Understand the possible direction of things.
   • Compare the differences between the main hexagram and the changing hexagram (is it getting better or worse?).

AI-Assisted Interpretation (Cast64 core feature):

Click the “AI Interpretation” button, and the system will:

• Combine with your question’s background.
• Integrate original I Ching texts, “Ten Wings” commentaries, and interpretations by historical masters.
• Generate a personalized analysis specific to your situation.

Important Reminder:

• AI interpretation is an aid, not the answer.
• The final decision-making power is yours.
• Treat the interpretation as a “catalyst for thought.”

Step 4: Record and Review (1 minute)

On Cast64:

• Save your divination record (optional: share publicly to the divination square).
• Write down your understanding and decision.
• Come back in 3 months to update the results (this is the fastest way to learn the I Ching).

Benefits of keeping a divination diary:

• Track accuracy (Did the hexagram truly reflect the outcome of events?)
• Discover blind spots in thinking (Which line texts do you always overlook?)
• Develop a personalized interpretation system.

→ Start your first divination now

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5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is I Ching divination really accurate? What are its scientific foundations?

Truth: I Ching divination is not “accurate prediction” in the physical sense, but rather an effective tool in the psychological sense.

Scientific explanation:

1. Randomness as a mirror: The random outcome of coin tosses activates your subconscious to project meaning (similar to the Rorschach inkblot test).
2. Structured thinking: The 64 hexagrams provide a framework for thought, helping you examine problems from different angles.
3. Psychological suggestion: The interpretation process itself is a deep self-dialogue.

Carl Jung’s view: The I Ching works through “synchronicity”—a meaningful coincidence between external random events and internal psychological states.

Bottom line: It cannot tell you whether stocks will rise or fall, but it can help you see your true fears and desires.

Q2: Can I divine the same question multiple times?

Answer: No.

The I Ching says: “Initially consulting, they will respond. If inquired repeatedly, it is profane, and they will not respond again.” (The first divination will yield insight; repeatedly asking questions is desecration, and it will no longer be effective.)

Reason:

• Repeated questioning indicates that you don’t trust the outcome. At this point, the hexagram only reflects your anxiety and has no reference value.
• The value of divination lies in helping you make a decision, not avoiding one.

Correct approach:

• If you are not satisfied with the result, first think deeply: Why am I resisting this hexagram?
• Wait at least 3 months, and only re-divine if the situation has undergone a significant change.

Q3: Is there a difference between divining with a phone and using real copper coins?

Core truth: Sincerity is key; the tool is secondary.

Comparison:

Dimension	Real Copper Coins	Online Tool
Randomness	Physical randomness	Algorithmic randomness (equally unpredictable)
Ritual Sense	Strong	Requires self-discipline to create
Convenience	Requires tools and environment	Anytime, anywhere
Record-keeping	Needs manual recording	Automatic saving, traceable

Suggestions:

• For major decisions: Use real copper coins, divine calmly at home.
• For daily dilemmas: Use an online tool, but maintain focus (don’t divine while browsing your phone).
• The key is to maintain a sincere attitude in your questioning, not the tool itself.

Q4: The hexagram and line texts are in classical Chinese. What if I don’t understand them?

Solution:

1. Use AI-assisted translation: Cast64’s AI interpretation will translate classical Chinese into modern context.
2. Don’t get bogged down by literal meanings: Grasp the symbolic meanings of imageries (e.g., “dragon,” “tiger,” “water,” “fire”).
3. Connect to your specific question: For career, look at “advance and retreat”; for relationships, look at “closeness and distance.”

Example:

• Original text: “亢龙有悔” (Kàng lóng yǒu huǐ)
• Literal translation: A soaring dragon will have regrets.
• Modern interpretation: When things develop to an extreme, be vigilant about things turning into their opposite; moderate accordingly.

Learning path:

• Beginner: Rely entirely on AI interpretation.
• Intermediate: Learn classical texts by cross-referencing with AI interpretation.
• Advanced: Develop your own interpretation system.

→ View the I Ching 64 Hexagram Quick Reference Guide

Q5: What if I get an “ominous” hexagram? Will it really be unlucky?

Important concept: The core wisdom of the I Ching is to “seek good fortune and avoid misfortune,” not fatalism.

The true meaning of “ominous”:

• It doesn’t mean “you are doomed.”
• It means “if things continue as they are, there may be problems.”
• The purpose is to remind you to adjust your strategy.

Response method:

1. Look at the specific guidance of the line text: It usually tells you how to resolve the situation.

   • For example: “The superior man is active and diligent all day long, cautious in the evening as if in peril. No blame.” (Diligence and vigilance can resolve it.)

2. Look for a turning point from the changing hexagram: Even if the main hexagram is ominous, the changing hexagram might be auspicious, indicating room for change.

3. Adjust your mindset and actions:

   • Danger warns you to be cautious.
   • Check for blind spots: What risks have you overlooked?
   • Develop a B plan.

Real case: A user got the “Bo (剝) Hexagram” (☶☷, symbol of peeling away), asking about a startup direction. He wasn’t scared off but understood it as “the current model has issues and needs trimming down.” He eventually cut unprofitable business lines, and 3 months later, the company turned profitable.

Remember: The I Ching is a tool, not a verdict. It points out problems, but you are the one who solves them.

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6. Advanced Learning: From Tool User to Practitioner of Wisdom

If you want to delve deeper into the I Ching, rather than just using it as a tool, here is a progressive learning path.

Level 1: Proficient Tool User (1-3 months)

Goal: Able to independently perform divination and understand basic interpretations.

Action Checklist:

• ✅ Complete more than 10 divinations (covering different areas).
• ✅ Write down your understanding and decisions for each divination.
• ✅ Review after 3 months: Did the hexagram reflect the actual outcome?
• ✅ Familiarize yourself with common hexagrams (Qian, Kun, Chun, Meng, Xu, Song, etc., the first 10 hexagrams).

Recommended Resources:

• Cast64 Divination Square: Learn from others’ cases.
• Recommended I Ching beginner books

Level 2: Theoretical Learner (3-12 months)

Goal: Understand the structure and philosophical system of the 64 hexagrams.

Key Learning Points:

• Eight Trigrams Basics: Qian ☰, Kun ☷, Zhen ☳, Xun ☴, Kan ☵, Li ☲, Gen ☶, Dui ☱.

• Eight Trigrams Symbolism:

  • Qian = Heaven = Father = Strong and vigorous.
  • Kun = Earth = Mother = Receptive and inclusive.
  • Zhen = Thunder = Eldest Son = Initiating.
  • Xun = Wind = Eldest Daughter = Gradual progression.
  • Kan = Water = Middle Son = Perilous and difficult.
  • Li = Fire = Middle Daughter = Brightness and clarity.
  • Gen = Mountain = Youngest Son = Stopping and resting.
  • Dui = Lake = Youngest Daughter = Joy and expression.

• Derivation of 64 Hexagrams: 8×8=64, the logical combination of upper and lower trigrams.

• Five Elements Relationship: Corresponding relationship between metal, wood, water, fire, earth and the hexagrams.

Recommended Books:

1. Fu Peirong, “Interpreting the I Ching”: Philosophy professor at National Taiwan University, clearly explained.
2. Nan Huai-Chin, “Miscellaneous Talks on the I Ching”: Master of Chinese studies, extensively referenced.
3. Kong Yingda, “Zhouyi Zhengyi” (Orthodox Meaning of the Book of Changes): Official commentary from the Tang Dynasty, deeply authoritative.

Level 3: Practitioner of Wisdom (1 year+)

Goal: Integrate I Ching wisdom into life decision-making system.

Cultivation Direction:

• Philosophical Internalization: Understanding the concepts of yin and yang, change, and the Doctrine of the Mean.
• Cross-Domain Application:
  • Management: Balancing firmness and flexibility, adapting to the times.
  • Investment: Not seeking extreme profit, knowing when to stop.
  • Interpersonal relationships: Harmony between superiors and subordinates, forming associations in the wilderness.
• Forming a Personal Interpretation System: Based on your industry, experience, and values.

Ultimate Goal: No longer dependent on divination, because you have internalized the wisdom of the I Ching into intuition.

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7. Conclusion: Starting Today, Let the I Ching Be Your Decision Partner

Having read this far, you now possess all the knowledge needed to begin online I Ching divination. Let’s review the key points:

Core Concepts

1. ✅ The I Ching is a decision-making aid, not fortune-telling.

   • It illuminates the present, not predicts the future.
   • Its value lies in inspiring thought, not providing answers.

2. ✅ Online divination and traditional divination share the same principles.

   • The core is randomness + psychological projection.
   • AI makes ancient wisdom easier to understand and apply.

3. ✅ The quality of divination depends on the quality of the question.

   • Specific, sincere, open-ended questions are most effective.
   • Avoid yes/no questions and short-term predictions.

Technical Essentials

• Main Hexagram = Current state
• Moving Line = Key point of change (most important)
• Changing Hexagram = Direction of trend

Practical Steps

1. Calmly ask your question (2 minutes)
2. Online casting (30 seconds)
3. AI-assisted interpretation (5 minutes)
4. Record and review (1 minute)

Three Immediate Actions

1. Divine Now: Think of a problem that’s troubling you, then visit Cast64 to complete your first divination.
2. Join the Learning: Subscribe to our blog for more hexagram interpretations and case studies.
3. Continuous Review: Keep a divination journal and compare results after 3 months. This is the fastest way to improve.

Advanced Learning Path

• Beginner: Read 《I Ching》 Beginner’s Guide first to build a theoretical foundation.
• Intermediate: Learn the Deep Relationship Between the Natal Hexagram and the Changing Hexagram (Coming Soon)
• Advanced: Explore I Ching and Modern Decision Science (Coming Soon)

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Final Words: Wisdom is in Your Heart, the Hexagrams are Just Keys

3000 years ago, King Wen of Zhou deduced the 64 hexagrams of the I Ching while imprisoned, and Confucius lamented in his old age about wearing out three sets of leather binding straps from reading it. In 2025, we use AI to revitalize this ancient wisdom.

But no matter how powerful a tool is, it is still just a tool. True wisdom always lies within your heart.

The process of I Ching divination is like a conversation with a wise elder:

• He won’t tell you “what to do”
• But he will ask you: “What do you truly want?”
• Then he will remind you: “If you do this, what will happen; if you do that, what will happen?”

The ultimate choice and responsibility are always in your hands.

Now, open Cast64 and begin your first conversation with wisdom.

→ Start Divination Now

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Recommended Related Articles

• AI Meets I Ching: When Computational Aesthetics Encounter Three Thousand Years of Abstract Wisdom
• The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to the I Ching: Understanding the Universe from Scratch
• Divination Square: View Real User Divination Cases

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References

1. Kong Yingda, “Zhou Yi Zhengyi”, Zhonghua Book Company
2. Zhu Xi, “Zhou Yi Benyi”, Shanghai Classics Publishing House
3. Carl Jung, “Foreword to the I Ching”, Bollingen Foundation, 1950
4. Fu Peirong, “Interpreting the I Ching”, Li Xu Culture
5. Nan Huai-Chin, “I Ching Zashuo”, Fudan University Press

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Tags: #IChing #OnlineDivination #ThreeCoins #AIAnalysis #DecisionTools #NatalHexagram #ChangingHexagram #MovingLines

Author: Cast64 Research Team First Published: 2025-10-18 Last Updated: 2025-10-18

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