Casting Methods
Casting is the first discipline in Liuyao. The method can use coins, time, numbers, or manual charting, but the rule must be fixed before the question is asked.
Classical Sources
Zengshan Buyi
“共摇六次，第一次为初爻。”
The chart is built from bottom to top. The first cast is the first line, not the top line.
How It Works In A Chart
| Role | How to read it |
|---|---|
| Coin casting | best for learning moving and changing lines |
| Time casting | useful when an event time is the trigger |
| Number casting | usable when numbers arise naturally |
| Manual charting | helps verify palace, Na Jia, relatives, Shi-Ying, and Spirits |
Recording Checklist
A casting page is useful only if the result can be checked later. Record the question before casting, then keep the line order and time data with the chart.
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Exact question | mixed questions create mixed charts |
| Casting method | coin, time, number, and manual rules should not be mixed |
| Six line results | the first result is the bottom line |
| Moving lines | old yin and old yang create the changed hexagram |
| Month and day | strength, clash, void, break, and timing rely on them |
| Manual setup check | palace, Na Jia, Six Relatives, Shi-Ying, and Spirits should agree |
Common Setup Errors
| Error | What goes wrong |
|---|---|
| Writing the first cast at the top | the whole hexagram becomes inverted |
| Changing the casting rule mid-question | the chart no longer has a stable method |
| Forgetting the day branch | void, clash, and many timing clues disappear |
| Choosing a new question after seeing the chart | the useful line becomes unreliable |
FAQ
Do I need ancient coins?
No. Three similar coins are enough if head and tail are defined before casting.
How many times do I cast?
Six times, from the bottom line upward.
Can I mix coin, time, and number methods?
Not for the same question. Choose one rule before casting.
Why record month and day?
They decide strength, clash, void, break, and many timing clues.
Can I ask several questions at once?
It is better to ask one clear question. Mixed questions produce mixed charts.