I Ching, The Book of Change

I Ching Prophecy

Ching, known as the Book of Changes, is known and accepted as one of the oldest prophecy and wisdom practices in the world. This mysterious and impressive system, which comes from ancient Chinese cultural roots, has been used to guide people to make more conscious, more aware, and more proper decisions in their daily lives, as well as in the quest to see and predict the future. Let's take a look together at how the I Ching, which has a very old history and has great importance and effect on human life, has such an effect.

History of I Ching

When we look at the history of I Ching, we see that it dates back to very old times, and its roots date back to the early civilizations of China. According to the information obtained and the research conducted, the first writings related to I Ching were written in 1000 BC. However, it is thought that the basic concepts of I-Ching date back to 3000 BC.

These foundations that were thought of and these texts that were written were based on the yin and yang principles of basic Chinese philosophy. The I Ching became more advanced during the Zhou Dynasty and began to be known as the Book of Changes. During this period, certain lifestyles and situations were expressed with symbols.

64 different situations were developed for the symbols, which consisted of six lines and were called "hexagrams.". In later times, the I Ching was influenced by Confucius and Laozi, two great philosophers of China. As a result of this situation, it ceased to be a prophecy and became a guiding guide for people.

According to Confucius, the I Ching was an important source for the development of individual and social morality, while according to Daoists, the I Ching was seen as a tool that could be used to understand the balance that exists in the world. 

Now let's look at how this impressive prophecy, the I Ching, was used. At the core of the I Ching is the creation of hexagrams that will help individuals find answers to the problems they experience in their lives. There are two methods for divination, which is a traditional method.

First;

Yarrow Stick Method: In this method, dried stems of the plant called Yarrow are used. A hexagram is created with these dried stems. Individuals search for answers to their questions through this hexagram. This method is one of the oldest and most time-consuming methods known.

Second;

Coin Toss Method: In this method, the hexagram is created by tossing a coin. The lines of this hexagram, which consists of six lines, are determined according to whether the coins come up heads or tails. These determined lines, in other words, this hexagram, have separate meanings and are interpreted accordingly. These interpretations and these expressions help individuals reach the answers they seek.

Let's take a look at the effect of the I Ching on our lives.

1. Self-Guidance

The I Ching helps individuals act more accurately and make more conscious decisions in complex and inextricable situations in their lives, allowing the individual to guide themselves. 

2. Effect of Realizing Natural Balance

The I Ching is based on the principles of Chinese philosophy of yin and yang. These principles help individuals understand the natural balances in their lives and adapt to them.

3. Effect on Spiritual Development

I Ching, which is also a meditation tool, guides people's spiritual development. Each hexagram helps the person understand important points in their life.

Now let's look at the best-selling I Ching books and sets on Amazon for those interested in the I Ching and looking for quality resources:

1. The I Ching, or Book of Changes" - Wilhelm/Baynes Translation

Features: It is one of the most popular translations. It is among the best-sellers with both its historical and modern interpretations.
Advantages: It is known for its deep and detailed studies.
Disadvantages: It may be too complicated and difficult for beginners to understand.
[View on Amazon]

2. The Complete I Ching" - Alfred Huang with Taoist Commentaries

Features: It talks about Taoist traditions and offers a calm and simple narrative.
Advantages: It is easy to understand and apply for beginners with its simple narrative.
Disadvantages: It may be insufficient in terms of providing a small amount of academic perspective.
[View on Amazon]

3. I Ching Cards - Card Deck

Features: It designs and presents I-Ching texts in the form of cards.
Advantages: It is a good alternative for users as it is easy to carry and use.
Disadvantages: It does not have the depth of traditional I-Ching texts.
[View on Amazon]

Now you can choose the most suitable I Ching source for yourself and take the step to learn. 

Look at our next exciting blog about The History of Tarot Divination Cards