The I Ching, usually translated as the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text among the oldest Chinese classics. Originally a divination manual in the Western Zhou period (1000–750 BC), throughout the Warring States period and early imperial period (500–200 BC), the I Ching was transformed into a cosmological text with a series of philosophical commentaries known as the "Ten Wings". The I Ching is used in a type of divination called cleromancy, which uses apparently random numbers. Six numbers between 6 and 9 are turned into a hexagram, which can then be looked up in the text, in which hexagrams are arranged in an order known as the King Wen sequence.
The interpretation of the readings found in the I Ching is a matter that has been endlessly discussed and debated over the centuries following its compilation, and many commentators have used the book symbolically, often to guide moral decision-making as informed by Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. - The I Ching is one of China's oldest and most revered classics, originating as a divination manual during the Western Zhou period (1000–750 BC).
- Utilizes cleromancy, a divination method using random numbers (typically six numbers between 6 and 9), which form a hexagram
- The I Ching serves as a guide for moral decision-making, influenced by Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.
- Often employed symbolically, the I Ching provides guidance beyond divination, offering insights into life's challenges and philosophical reflections.
- Widely studied and translated, the I Ching has influenced not only Chinese culture but also global philosophical and spiritual thought, making it a timeless source of wisdom and reflection.
- A clear and concise translation by James Legge, appendixes usually ascribed to Confucius, an informative Preface by Legge, and extensive footnotes.
Scottish missionary James Legge (1815–97) was a scholar of Sinology most noted for his English translations of ancient Chinese texts. Oxford University's first Professor of Chinese, he wrote many books, including The Life and Teaching of Confucius, The Life and Teaching of Mencius, and The Religions of China.
