I Ching Defined
The I Ching is the oldest-known oracle in the world. It is a book packed full of Chinese wisdom, as well as the accumulated experience of over 2500 years of both sages and diviners. The I Ching also goes beyond that of ancient oral traditions through a voice that offers people help in guidance for generations.
Current I Ching books are full of texts mixed with advice and imagery, as well as philosophy and poetry, that has been divided into 64 chapters. There are 64 hexagrams made up of lines that are either broken or solid.
When consulting the I Ching, you use coin tosses, marble pulling, or the sorting of yarrow sticks, to build a hexagram one line at a time. Each translation of the I Ching will explain this simple practice. Once created, you will be directed to a specific collection of texts that explain what it means if more than six of your lines are in transition and what to do after the transition. A hexagram goes beyond a convenient heading, it is also a picture of how energy flows through a given situation. The I Ching is translated as the “Book of Changes” which is the constant throughout the chapters of the book. The hexagrams are not simply static pictures, but ways to move so you may create, receiving, sustain, begin, learn, wait, and so much more.
What to Do with the I Ching
The I Ching can be used for many purposes. Whether you choose to utilize runes, tarot, the I Ching or some combination, the power of change stays with you. The I Ching is a type of oracle that is used to answer your questions. The answers you receive bring you into contact with a fundamental and unchanging aspect but is also vividly connected to your personal situation. The I Ching brings deep insights that empower you to make changes for the better in life.
The I Ching can bring harmony to relationships while strengthening spiritual practices or even reassuring as needs arise. Some have used it in legal matters as a guide, to offer business advice, and inform investments. This is because it can restore and can be used for continual consultation.
Most value the I Ching for the ability to help with relationships. The provided answers are sensitive to the nuances of human interaction in business, friendship, and love. Used with sincerity and respect, the I Ching can help you better understand the feelings of another, as well as their perspective. It also leaves you better prepared for challenges and negotiations.
Does the I Ching Predict the Future?
The I Ching can answer questions about things within the limits of our personal understanding. This is based on insight into the present, not a prediction. Specifically, the I Ching can outline the challenges and opportunities that may arise if you choose a particular path and how to negotiate any obstacles. This is not fortune-telling but provides the effects of choices so a person can develop strategies to achieve goals.
The danger with any type of divination is the user continually consulting it without taking responsibility for the decision. The I Ching gives this responsibility to the user as a way of caring for the user.
First Steps
The best way to learn the I Ching is to find a translation and read about the methods to start asking questions. If you have no specific questions, cast a hexagram for the day or week then spend time contemplating it once it comes to an end. When given time and thought, this is a powerful way to gain an understanding of the hexagrams.
At first, understanding the answers can be complicated. Though it can offer modern-day advice, it is with 3,000-year-old imagery. If this does not make sense over time, there are commentaries available to help. A reader may also be helpful with learning the I Ching or when in urgent need of answers.
Who Can Use the I Ching?
Anyone can use the I Ching based on innate talents, some of which may surprise you, as you use the I Ching. The I Ching works on so many levels, so a specific ability is not needed. Some will dig deeper than others in their use. Enter in any way you desire and grow from there. Truth is everywhere, not hidden for a specified few.
However, there are a few prerequisites to have a rewarding relationship with the I Ching because it is not for instant answers or confirmation of ideas. This takes time and patience to develop which means sincerity and openness is necessary. While using, you may be asked to consider the unthinkable, but in the least, you can grow.
Why has the Popularity been Maintained?
The I Ching was slow to spread into the West, possibly due to the individual nature of the I Ching. It does not do as well in a one-size-fits-all world. However, new translations help you create a real relationship with this oracle as popularity grows throughout the world. Some have been using the I Ching for up to 50 years. It is definitely up for consideration if interested in oracles.