Introduction: Moon blocks divination (Bwa Bwei) is the most common religious practice in Taiwan, but “Do you really know how to toss them? One wrong step and the deity might not answer you.” Many people stand before the deity, holding the red crescent blocks, yet feel confused: How do I interpret the results? What does a “Laughing Cup” mean? Based on expert teachings and scientific analysis, moon blocks divination is not just about probability; it is a deep dialogue with the divine and your subconscious. This article provides a comprehensive guide, from basic procedures and probability analysis to interpreting divine will, helping you accurately receive signals from the gods.
The red moon blocks are important ritual implements connecting human intention with the divine.
Chapter 1: Basics of Moon Blocks Divination & Cultural Significance
1.1 What are Moon Blocks?
Moon blocks divination is the most direct way for believers to communicate with deities in Taiwanese folk belief. It originates from ancient divination culture, using two crescent-shaped blocks (made of wood, bamboo, or plastic). Divine will is interpreted based on the combination of flat and convex sides after they fall. It is not only a religious ritual but also a psychological support system, helping people find the courage to make decisions when lost.
1.2 Modern Significance
In modern society, moon blocks divination serves a function of “self-clarification” in addition to seeking divine guidance. To ask the gods, one must first organize chaotic worries into specific “Yes/No questions.” This process itself is a rational thinking exercise. For detailed academic background, you can refer to David K. Jordan’s Guide to Poe Divination.
Chapter 2: How to Read Results? Divine, Laughing, and Yin Cups Explained
Moon blocks have two sides: the convex side is “Yin” (symbolizing closed, negative), and the flat side is “Yang” (symbolizing open, positive).
| Name | Icon/State | Basic Meaning | Deep Interpretation & Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divine Cup (Sheng Jiao) | One Flat, One Convex (One Yang, One Yin) |
Yes, Agreed, OK | The deity gives a positive response. If asking for a fortune stick, three consecutive Divine Cups are usually required. |
| Laughing Cup (Xiao Jiao) | Two Flat Sides (Two Yang) |
Smiling, Unclear | The question is not specific enough, the time is not right, or the deity feels the question doesn’t need asking. Rephrase and ask again. |
| Yin Cup (Yin Jiao) | Two Convex Sides (Two Yin) |
No, Disagree, Angry | The deity does not approve, or the path is blocked. Change your plan or ask if there are other instructions. |
| Standing Cup (Li Jiao) | Standing Upright | Miracle, Special Instruction | Extremely rare. Usually signifies the deity has a very important and urgent message. Consult temple staff for interpretation. |
Chapter 3: Probability Analysis: Science Meets Divinity
From a scientific perspective, moon blocks divination involves probability. In an ideal state:
📊 Moon Blocks Probability Statistics
- Divine Cup Probability: ~50% (1/2)
- Laughing Cup Probability: ~25% (1/4)
- Yin Cup Probability: ~25% (1/4)
- Three Consecutive Divine Cups: (1/2)³ = 1/8 (approx. 12.5%)
Note: Due to material and center of gravity design (convex side is heavier), the probability of a Divine Cup is often slightly higher than 50% in reality, which is one reason why deities are often felt to be compassionate.
Chapter 4: How to Get Accurate Results? Correct SOP
According to experts, many people feel the results are inaccurate because their “questioning method” is wrong.
4.1 Correct Process for Moon Blocks Divination
- Purify: Wash hands and calm your mind.
- Introduction: Hold the blocks, state your name, lunar birthday, and address.
- State the Question: Clearly describe your trouble and set a scope (e.g., time, location).
- Ask the Deity: “Please instruct me, God. If [My Plan] is feasible, please grant a Divine Cup.”
- Toss: Gently wave three times in front of your chest and drop the blocks.
4.2 Tips for Accuracy (The Yes/No Rule)
Deities can only answer Yes (Divine), No (Yin), or Unknown (Laughing).
- ❌ Wrong: “How is my luck this year?” (Too vague, cannot be answered)
- ✅ Right: “Is it suitable for me to change jobs to Taipei this year?” (Specific)
- ❌ Wrong: “Should I choose Company A or Company B?”
- ✅ Right: “Is going to Company A good? (Toss) Then is Company B good? (Toss)” (Ask separately)
Chapter 5: Tools & Simulation
5.1 Common Materials
- Wood: Traditional, crisp sound, good feel, suitable for home altars.
- Bamboo Root: Shaped like cashew nuts, hard texture, considered very spiritual, higher price.
- Plastic: Most common in temples (red plastic), durable, consistent probability.
5.2 Interactive Tool: Online Simulation
Sincerity makes it effective. If you don’t have blocks, try this simple simulator to practice interpreting divine will.
Chapter 6: Correct Posture & Occasions
- Posture: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, body upright. Hold the blocks at chest level (heart height), representing “sincerity.”
- Tossing: Open your palms naturally, letting the blocks fall in a parabolic arc. Do not intentionally flick them with your fingers.
- Occasions: Temples and home altars are suitable. Avoid tossing outdoors or in unclean places.
Chapter 7: Interpreting Results & Complex Combinations
For more insights, check out Benebell Wen’s guide on I Ching Divination with Moon Blocks.
7.1 Sequential Interpretations
- Three Divine Cups: Great Auspiciousness. The deity strongly affirms; you can proceed with confidence.
- Two Divine, One Laughing: Medium Auspiciousness. The direction is right, but the deity thinks you might be oversimplifying or worrying too much. Ask for details.
- Two Divine, One Yin: Obstacles. The general direction is feasible, but there are difficulties or variables. Suggest postponing or seeking help.
- Consecutive Laughing Cups: Re-think. Usually means the question is hard to answer or you are asking something you already know.
Chapter 8: Common Taboos & Precautions
- ❌ No Testing: Do not toss with the mindset of “testing the god”; this is disrespectful.
- ❌ No Repetition: If you get a Yin Cup, do not keep asking until you get a Divine Cup (this is “forcing,” and the result won’t be accurate).
- ❌ No Proxies: Unless for direct blood relatives or someone unconscious, ask for yourself for accuracy.
- ❌ No Stepping Over: Once blocks land, do not let anyone step over them. Pick them up respectfully.
Chapter 9: FAQ
Accuracy depends on: 1. Specific Yes/No questions. 2. Sincere mindset. 3. Quiet environment. 4. Consistent tossing technique. Include timeframes and single events in your questions.
Theoretically, Divine (Sheng) is ~50%, Laughing (Xiao) ~25%, Yin ~25%. In reality, Divine probability is often higher due to physical properties. Three consecutive Divine cups is about 12.5%.
It usually means the question is unclear, the deity thinks the answer is obvious, or the timing isn’t right. Rephrase your question or ask again later.
Avoid asking immoral questions, prying into privacy, or asking late at night. Do not treat it as a game. Never catch the blocks with your hands before they land.
Wood or Bamboo root is best for home use due to spiritual quality and feel. Plastic is durable for carrying around. Always purify them over incense before use.
Conclusion
Moon blocks divination is a precious intangible cultural heritage of Taiwan. It is not just a bridge to communicate with gods but a process of organizing thoughts and self-reflection. Learning moon blocks divination is about learning how to humbly ask the universe questions and rationally interpret guidance.
Whether the result is Divine, Laughing, or Yin, it is the best arrangement from the divine. Maintain a sincere, rational, and grateful heart, and you will find that the answer is often already within you. May everyone find direction and peace under divine guidance.