Reading the Divination Blocks: Sacred, Laughing and Yin Explained
Casting the divination blocks (擲筊, also called 博杯) is the most direct way to ask a deity a question. Two crescent-shaped blocks land in only three combinations, and once you can read them you can cast. Tianyun Temple includes an online version with the same animation and probabilities as the traditional rules.
The three results
Sacred (聖筊): one flat side up, one round side up — the deity agrees. The best result.
Laughing (笑筊): both flat sides up — the deity smiles and does not answer. The question is unclear, the timing is not right, or you already know the answer. Rephrase and cast again.
Yin (陰筊): both round sides up — the deity does not agree. Do not force this matter.
The correct steps
1. Offer incense first: name, date of birth, address, then state the question as clearly as you can.
2. The question must be answerable with yes or no, for example "Is this job right for me?"
3. Hold the blocks in both hands, say the question silently, and cast.
4. For important matters, three sacred blocks in a row is the standard. One does not settle it.
Common taboos
Do not cast repeatedly in a short time for the same question. Traditionally, do not cast during the late-night hour (23:00–01:00). Do not ask about blasphemous or gambling matters. Keep the same respect online.
Casting online
In the Tianyun Temple main hall, press the "blocks" button at the bottom. The animation shows the blocks tumbling and landing, and the result is judged instantly. Before drawing a slip you can cast to ask Mazu whether a slip should be given, exactly as you would in a physical temple.
Enter the temple — free, no signup →Frequently asked questions
Usually that something is wrong with the question: too vague, an answer you already know, or a matter not worth asking. Turn it into a clear yes-or-no question and try again.
Yes, but ask a yes-or-no question such as "Is this relationship a destined match?" rather than an open one like "Does he love me?"
The probabilities match physical blocks — roughly 1/2, 1/4 and 1/4 at random for sacred, laughing and yin. Whether you believe is up to you; the ritual and the sincerity are the point.