Foundations of the I Ching
Discover the rich history, philosophy, and cultural context behind this ancient oracle system. Explore each fundamental aspect that has shaped millennia of wisdom.
Introduction
Learn the fundamental concepts and approach the I Ching with the right mindset. Understand what the I Ching is (and isn't), and discover how this ancient oracle can provide meaningful guidance for modern life.
Core Elements
Master the essential building blocks of the I Ching system. From trigrams to hexagrams, learn how these symbolic elements work together to create meaning.
The Reading Process
Develop practical skills for conducting meaningful I Ching consultations. Learn various methods for forming hexagrams and interpreting their guidance.
Philosophy
Explore the philosophical foundations of the I Ching
Echoes of the Dao: Taoist Roots and Resonances in the I Ching
Exploring the deep connections and philosophical resonances between the I Ching and Taoist thought, including concepts like the Dao, Wu Wei, and the nature of change.
The Sage's Guide: Confucian Integration and Interpretation of the I Ching
Examining how Confucianism adopted, interpreted, and deeply integrated the I Ching into its ethical, social, and political philosophy, transforming it into a guide for moral cultivation and governance.
The Cosmic Dance: Core Cosmological Concepts in the I Ching
Detailing the fundamental cosmological concepts embedded within the I Ching, such as Yin-Yang, the Five Elements/Phases (Wu Xing), and the ever-present principle of Change.
Meaning and Principle: The Yili School of I Ching Interpretation
Exploring the Yili (義理) School, or Meaning/Principle School, of I Ching interpretation, which emphasizes the philosophical, ethical, and moral wisdom embedded in the text.
Image and Number: The Xiangshu School of I Ching Interpretation
Investigating the Xiangshu (象數) School, or Image/Number School, of I Ching interpretation, which focuses on the cosmological, numerological, and symbolic systems within the text.
Mythical Origins
Explore the legendary foundations of the I Ching and the mythical figures who shaped its early development. Learn how ancient Chinese cosmology influenced its structure and symbolic system.
Early Development
Understand how the I Ching emerged during the Western Zhou period as both divination manual and wisdom text. Discover the archaeological evidence that illuminates its historical context.
Philosophical Expansion
Learn how Confucian scholars transformed the I Ching into a sophisticated philosophical system through the addition of the Ten Wings commentaries.
Evolution and Interpretation
Follow the I Ching's continued development through Chinese history, from Han dynasty scholarship to Neo-Confucian innovations and beyond.
Influence
Discover the I Ching's impact on the world
A Thread Through Culture: The I Ching's Impact on Chinese Civilization
Exploring the I Ching's profound and pervasive influence on various aspects of Chinese culture, including philosophy, art, literature, governance, science, and traditional medicine.
An Eastern Wind: The I Ching's Journey to the West
Tracing the historical journey of the I Ching from China to the Western world, highlighting key translators, influential figures, and its initial reception and interpretation.
The I Ching Today: Modern Interpretations and Global Reach
Examining how the I Ching is understood, interpreted, and utilized in contemporary times across the globe, including its application in psychology, arts, personal development, and its ongoing cultural significance.
Ready to dive deeper?
Explore traditional consultation methods or dive into the 64 hexagrams.