The Yarrow Stalks - Acquiring, Preparing, and Honoring Your Divination Tools

The yarrow stalks are the heart of this ancient divination method. Unlike the readily available coins used in other I Ching techniques, the yarrow stalks themselves carry a deeper layer of tradition and require more specific attention. This article explores their significance, how to acquire or prepare them, and the ways to honor and care for these sacred tools.

The Fifty Stalks: Symbolism and Significance

The yarrow stalk method traditionally employs fifty stalks. Though one is immediately set aside at the beginning of the divination process (playing no further part in the counting, leaving 49 in active use), the initial number fifty is itself symbolic. The Ten Wings (a collection of early commentaries on the I Ching) explains that the fifty stalks represent a balanced proportion of yin and yang, reflecting the cosmic order the I Ching seeks to interpret.

Why Yarrow?

Yarrow (specifically Achillea millefolium) was chosen for several reasons:

• Sacred Associations: It often grew wild in common areas that were also set apart for sacred rituals. Its presence in these liminal spaces imbued it with special significance.
• Connection to Nature's Qi: The stalks are seen as embodying qi (vital life force) from nature. Using stalks collected from one's local region is believed to connect the diviner with the specific energies of their environment, empowering the divination.
• Durability and Form: Dried yarrow stalks are relatively straight, uniform, and durable, making them suitable for the repeated handling involved in the counting process.

Acquiring or Making Your Stalks

Traditionally, yarrow stalks were collected with intention and care.

Traditional Collection:

• Source: Ideally, stalks are hand-picked from your local region to harness the local qi.
• Timing: Some traditions suggest collecting stalks on a full moon, a time often associated with heightened spiritual energy.
• Location Quality: Stalks from fertile, sunny locations are thought to yield healthier, more balanced qi. However, some occultist perspectives might favor stalks from more difficult or "volatile" environments, believing they possess a different kind of potent strength.
• Drying: After collection, stalks should be carefully dried, often under sunlight, until they are firm and straight. They are typically cut to a uniform length, often between 8 to 12 inches.

Alternatives to Wild Collection:

• Purchasing Stalks: Sets of yarrow stalks prepared for I Ching divination can often be purchased from specialized suppliers of metaphysical or Eastern philosophy goods.
• Using Other Materials: If yarrow is entirely inaccessible, some practitioners may use other natural materials like bamboo skewers or even thin wooden dowels, cut to the appropriate number and length, though yarrow remains the traditional ideal. The key is to use materials that feel respectful and appropriate for a sacred practice.

Consecration and Empowerment of the Stalks

Once you have your fifty stalks, they are more than just counting sticks; they become sacred tools. While original texts might be silent on explicit, elaborate consecration rituals, the ongoing care and reverence shown to the stalks are what truly empower them.

Implied Consecration through Use and Offering: Traditionally, dedicated daily incense offerings at the divination table or altar where the stalks are kept and used are considered a primary way to empower the tool. The regular, respectful use in divination itself imbues them with energy.

Additional Consecration Methods (Optional): Some practitioners adopt or adapt other consecration practices, such as:

• Washing: Gently cleansing the stalks with specially prepared water (e.g., spring water, moon water, or water infused with herbs).
• Charging: Placing them with crystals known for their purifying or amplifying properties.
• Smudging: Passing the stalks through the smoke of sacred incense (like sandalwood or sage) or herbs.

The aim of consecration is to purify the stalks, dedicate them to the purpose of divination, and align them with your intention and the energies of the I Ching.

Storing and Caring for Your Yarrow Stalks

Proper storage and care are essential to maintaining the sanctity and longevity of your yarrow stalks.

• Wrapping: When not in use, sacred yarrow stalks should be carefully wrapped. Scented silk is often recommended, as silk is a natural material and the scent can add to the ritual atmosphere.
• Pouch: The wrapped stalks are then typically kept in a pouch. Traditionally, this pouch is made from black or very dark cloth. Black is symbolic of wu wei (non-action, or effortless action), the One (the undifferentiated Tao), and the numinous void from which all creation emerges.
• Container: The pouch containing the stalks should ideally be kept in a cylindrical bamboo or wooden tube. This protects them physically and maintains their connection to natural materials.
• Placement: The container holding the stalks is traditionally placed on the north side of your divination table or altar. The north is associated with stillness, introspection, and the watery depths of wisdom in many symbolic systems.

By acquiring, preparing, and caring for your yarrow stalks with intention and respect, you honor the ancient tradition of I Ching divination and create a set of tools that can serve as a powerful conduit for its wisdom.

In our next article, we will discuss "Preparing for Divination - Ritual, Mindset, and Sacred Inquiry," focusing on the internal and external environment for your yarrow stalk consultation.