I Ching Readings
What is possible with a humorous, playful, wise I Ching interpretation? On another page on this site, it is mentioned that the Universe (inner and outer) is constantly in dynamic motion, whether Contracting, Expanding, Doing Both or Resting In Between. This dynamic motion is not always decipherable by individuals, and that is where quality divination tools come in handy. The I Ching (Yi Jing) or Book of Changes (Classic of Changes) , is one such quality divination tool.
The I Ching is said to date from ~2000 BCE although some myths point out that it may have existed prior to recorded history. Scholars posit it to the 3000 - 2000 BCE era. It is a book of possibilities, reflections of the outer Universe in comparison to inner feelings / dynamics, and it is a book about acceptance and letting go. With 64 primary Hexagrams (Kua) and over 360 possible variations, it provides a very clear, detailed image and depending on the interpretation you use, it can also produce a poetic and humorous description of the essence or energy about the question or topic under consideration.
Kirby appreciates how the I Ching rarely gives a blunt "Yes" or "No" answer, rather it identifies the surrounding feelings and patterns and provides additional information about the topic at hand. There are many metaphors and images which are produced as answers, meaning a quality interpretation of the I Ching is vital - otherwise you have to decipher the images yourself. Or, in some poor translations, you are stuck with, "Now focus on the Big Toe and do not cross the Great Stream." What does this even mean? See below for some of the quality interpretations that Kirby has read or been introduced to.
What Does a Typical Session Look Like?
First, the client mentions the overall topic to be asked about. This could be about relationships, financial decisions, family issues, etc (anything really). Then Kirby works with the client to refine what is actually being asked. What specifically does the client want to know? Are they sure they want to know? Then, if the session is in person, the client throws the coins, keeping the specific question in mind. If the session is conducted over the phone, then there is an option of who throws the coins - the client can easily do it or Kirby throws the coins for the client, while keeping everything they have discussed in mind. Then Kirby describes the image of the Kua (Hexagram) and any changing lines (variations) and Kirby gives his interpretation of the description / essence behind the image. It is usually recommended to ask several questions to gain clarity about a topic. At least it is good to ask a question and then ask its opposite.
The I Ching is said to date from ~2000 BCE although some myths point out that it may have existed prior to recorded history. Scholars posit it to the 3000 - 2000 BCE era. It is a book of possibilities, reflections of the outer Universe in comparison to inner feelings / dynamics, and it is a book about acceptance and letting go. With 64 primary Hexagrams (Kua) and over 360 possible variations, it provides a very clear, detailed image and depending on the interpretation you use, it can also produce a poetic and humorous description of the essence or energy about the question or topic under consideration.
Kirby appreciates how the I Ching rarely gives a blunt "Yes" or "No" answer, rather it identifies the surrounding feelings and patterns and provides additional information about the topic at hand. There are many metaphors and images which are produced as answers, meaning a quality interpretation of the I Ching is vital - otherwise you have to decipher the images yourself. Or, in some poor translations, you are stuck with, "Now focus on the Big Toe and do not cross the Great Stream." What does this even mean? See below for some of the quality interpretations that Kirby has read or been introduced to.
What Does a Typical Session Look Like?
First, the client mentions the overall topic to be asked about. This could be about relationships, financial decisions, family issues, etc (anything really). Then Kirby works with the client to refine what is actually being asked. What specifically does the client want to know? Are they sure they want to know? Then, if the session is in person, the client throws the coins, keeping the specific question in mind. If the session is conducted over the phone, then there is an option of who throws the coins - the client can easily do it or Kirby throws the coins for the client, while keeping everything they have discussed in mind. Then Kirby describes the image of the Kua (Hexagram) and any changing lines (variations) and Kirby gives his interpretation of the description / essence behind the image. It is usually recommended to ask several questions to gain clarity about a topic. At least it is good to ask a question and then ask its opposite.
Which I Ching Texts Does Kirby Use?
Kirby primarily uses three I Ching texts, however he has experience with numerous translations and interpretations (see below).