단괘 방법

Interpreting a Hexagram

Interpreting a hexagram is the core skill of Liu Yao prediction. It requires a comprehensive analysis of the various pieces of information contained within the hexagram image to arrive at a judgment regarding the matter being asked about. The following are the basic methods and steps for interpreting a hexagram.

Basic Steps for Interpreting a Hexagram

1. Clarify the question - Confirm exactly what is being asked.
2. Determine the governing line - Find the corresponding governing line based on the question asked.
3. Examine strength and weakness - Assess the relative strength of the governing line.
4. Examine moving lines - Analyze the effect of the moving lines on the governing line.
5. Examine the day and month - Assess the influence of the day's Heavenly Stem and the month's Earthly Branch on the governing line.
6. Synthesize the judgment - Draw a conclusion.

Basic Principles for Determining Auspicious and Inauspicious Outcomes

Conditions for success:

• The governing line is prosperous and strong, free from punishment, clash, restraint, and harm.
• The governing line receives support and nourishment from the day and month.
• The source line moves to generate the governing line.
• The governing line meets with combination and generation.

Conditions for failure:

• The governing line is weak and suffering from restraint and clashes.
• The governing line is Void or has entered a grave.
• The unfavorable element moves to restrain the governing line.
• The governing line meets with month break.

Determining the Timing of Fulfillment

The timing of fulfillment is when the predicted event actually takes place. Common methods for determining the timing of fulfillment include:

• Combination timing - When the governing line is bound by a combination, the event comes to pass when the combination is clashed open.
• Clash timing - When the governing line is subjected to a clash, the event comes to pass when it is bound and held by a combination.
• Void timing - When the governing line is Void, the event comes to pass when it exits the Void state.
• Grave timing - When the governing line has entered a grave, the event comes to pass when the grave is clashed open.
• Value timing - The event comes to pass on the day or month when the Earthly Branch carried by the governing line assumes duty.

Six-Harmony Pairs and Six Clashes

Six-harmony hexagrams: The Earthly Branches of the inner and outer trigrams combine with each other, indicating that matters will proceed smoothly and result in successful unions. Six-clash hexagrams: The Earthly Branches of the inner and outer trigrams clash with one another, indicating that matters will fall apart or undergo sudden changes.

A harmony hexagram transforming into a clash hexagram: First there is success, followed by dissolution. A clash hexagram transforming into a harmony hexagram: First there is difficulty, followed by success.

Advanced Techniques

• Hidden line - When the governing line does not appear in the hexagram, a hidden line must be found.
• Flying-hidden relationship - The generating and restraining relationship between the flying line and the hidden line.
• Reverse chanting and forward chanting - Special patterns of transformation within a hexagram.
• Single moving line - When only one line in the hexagram moves, the interpretation is based on that specific line.

Important Notes

Interpreting a hexagram is a highly experience-based skill that requires extensive practical accumulation. Beginners should start with simple questions and gradually improve their level of interpretation. One must avoid applying rules mechanically; the various principles should be applied flexibly.