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An Introduction to the I ChingA Guide to How Life Change Is Represented in the Book of Changes
The I Ching or 'Book of Changes' is perhaps the oldest book in the world and has, for centuries, given inspiration and guidance to millions of people.
The I Ching, or ‘Book of Changes’ as it is sometimes called, is an ancient Chinese method of divination. It is one of the oldest oracles and has been held in high regard throughout the world for many thousands of years. Through the ages wise people have found it an invaluable source of wisdom and guidance and as it has captured their minds and imaginations they, too, have added thoughts to this magical and prophetical book. The I Ching’s durability is such that it survived not only the great book-burning instituted by Ch’in Shih Huang in 213 BC but also the Chinese revolution in the twentieth century. The OracleAn oracle is a book which provides answers to questions and the I Ching is becoming more and more popular in Western countries, largely as a result of the famous psychologist Jung’s translation. It is a poetic and philosophical book which can be consulted for almost any purpose, from problems with love and family relationships to career difficulties and health worries. So what, exactly, is the I Ching? It is made up of 64 figures which are called Hexagrams. Each Hexagram contains six lines that can be either broken or solid (Yang represents solid and Yin represents broken lines). Between them, they symbolise all the stages of change and transformation operating within the universe. The basic philosophy is close to the Taoist belief that change is natural and occurs in all things. The universe is in a constant state of flux and the texts of the I Ching describe these changes and the way in which they apply to mankind. Beautiful ImagesThe impressions on these lines are really quite beautiful, as are the Chinese sayings behind them. For instance consider this image: a flood rising above the tree tops. What might this mean? This is Hexagram 28, Ta Kuo (excess of complacency) and one of the messages is that the floods are only temporary and as long as the trees remain rooted in the ground things will return to normal. In other words, be cautious, be steadfast and avoid flooding life with too many responsibilities. Life ChangesOne way the I Ching differs from other similar oracles is that instead of regarding everything as ‘fixed’ or ‘rewritten’ it sees the past flowing into the future. Life, therefore, is in a constant state of flux, never the same from one moment to the next. Consequently the I Ching will offer a number of possibilities for the future, depending on the course of action taken. This can be extremely helpful for people who are confused about their relationships, their job situation or life in general. The I Ching offers an objective view of the present and sensible guidance as to future possibilities. Although many people consult the I Ching only in times of confusion, indecision or stress, others use it regularly as a way to give direction to their lives. There are no rules – you can turn to the I Ching as often as you feel the need. One of the greatest Chinese philosophers, Confucius, when he was nearly 70 years old (in 481 BC) said ‘If some years were added to my life, I would give fifty to the study of the I Ching, and might then escape falling into great errors.’ ReferencesCleary, Thomas The Taoist I Ching Shambhala (1986) Jung, CG The I Ching or Book of Changes Princeton University (1967)
The copyright of the article An Introduction to the I Ching in New Age Beliefs is owned by Carole Somerville. Permission to republish An Introduction to the I Ching in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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