Introduction to I Ching
The I Ching isnot only the oldest known classic Chinese text but also the most popular philosphical book of all time.The I Ching focuses on the idea of the dynamic balance of opposites ( yin yang principle ), seeing the evolution of events as a process, and an acceptance of the inevitability of change.
The book is believed to have been written around 5,000 years ago and part of the content has been credited to the legendary Fu Hisa. To the modern world, I Ching is often regarded as a system of divination while there are others who believe that it sets out a general guide to Chinese philosphy and wisdom.
To be precise, “ching” means book. “I” translates as change, or changelessness. The symbols are written using characters derived from the ancient Chinese symbols for the moon and the sun. They represent the change from day to night and polarity. The change from day to night can be seen as an interchangeable state which is in constant equilibrium.
The Book of Changes views all of the changes that we and our environment go through as a series of unfolding immutable laws and principles of existence. By explaining our present situation in terms of the natural laws that have given rise to it, we can decide and take immediate course of action and see what the future holds of for us.
The I Ching views the universe as a natural and well-coordinated system in which the process of change never ceases. It presents human nature and destiny as based on principle and order. Through the study of I Ching, one is able to recognise human activities and situations within a much larger context of harmonious interactions between cosmos, man and nature. With this set of knowledge, it enables us to cope with the changes that we will confront in our daily lives.
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