What Do These Numbers Mean?
Every time you throw the three-coin set in our simulator, one of four numbers shows up on your hexagram panel: 6, 7, 8, or 9. Most new users do not understand what these numbers stand for. This page explains where the numbers come from, which yin-yang line each number creates, and the simple difference between regular static lines and changing-moving lines.
Where do these four numbers come from?
The three-coin method uses easy point rules. Tails count as 2 points. Heads count as 3 points. Each shake adds up points from all three coins. The total will always be 6, 7, 8, or 9.
Three-coin point rules:
- 3 × Heads = 9
- 2 Heads + 1 Tail = 7
- 1 Head + 2 Tails = 8
- 3 × Tails = 6
Numbers, yin-yang lines and the basics of changing-moving lines
Each number makes either a solid yang line or a broken yin line:
- 7 and 9 = solid yang line
- 6 and 8 = broken yin line
| Value | Line type | Yin-Yang | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Old Yin | Yin | Changing-moving line |
| 7 | Young Yang | Yang | Static stable line |
| 8 | Young Yin | Yin | Static stable line |
| 9 | Old Yang | Yang | Changing-moving line |
There are two simple groups:
- Static stable lines (7, 8) — These describe parts of your current situation. They carry no built-in push for things to shift.
- Changing-moving lines (6, 9) — These show energy pushed to an extreme. They have a natural tendency to flip into the opposite type of line.
In our simulator, changing-moving lines get special marks. Old Yang (9) shows a hollow circle ○. Old Yin (6) shows a cross ×.
Note: This page only explains what these concepts are. We will cover what the circle and cross actually mean, plus simple ways to read your hexagram, in our follow-up article.
📚 Next step: If you want to understand circle ○ and cross ×, plus easy step-by-step tips to work with your casting result:
Understanding Changing-Moving Lines: Symbols & How To Read Your Casting
Community reminder: This content is for philosophical self-reflection only. It is not fortune-telling and does not count as professional advice.