“Pua̍h-pue” (divination blocks) originates from ancient Chinese divination practices rooted in the I Ching. It is a form of oracle used to communicate with deities and seek guidance about the future. The ritual typically involves two wooden or bamboo blocks, known as pue or “moon blocks.” After being cast, their landing positions are interpreted: one flat side up (“yin”) and one rounded side up (“yang”) indicates divine approval; two flat sides up signifies disapproval; while two rounded sides up is often understood as the deity laughing, suggesting the question be asked again.

Based on personal experience, performing Pua̍h-pue is not always a voluntary act, but one shaped by the compelling force of ritual tradition. Through this process, I reflect on the uncertainty and contradictions inherent in oracles. When facing the unknown, does the answer revealed by Pua̍h-pue represent divine will, or is it merely a projection of human desire mediated through religious experience?