Description
Book SynopsisDespite its enduring popularity both in China and worldwide, the Yijing is often poorly understood. As a divinatory text, it has a devoted following in the western hemisphere, even as it represents a foundational text of both Confucianism and Daoism. A fascination with the Yijing has been evident among western scholars since the Enlightenment, as well as in notable modern literary and artistic figures. This book provides an introduction for the general reader to this classic sacred text. Joseph A. Adler explains its multi-layered structure, its origins, its history of interpretation from the early first millennium BCE up to the present day, its function of divination, its significance in the history of Chinese thought, and its modern transformations. He explores why the Yijing has been considered the most profound expression of traditional Chinese thought and what meaning it can have for contemporary readers.
Trade ReviewAn invaluable book for college classes related to Chinese studies, as well as comparative religion, anthropology, philosophy, and literature. Students of allied arts such as Chinese medicine and martial arts will appreciate Adler's treating theory and practice as being equally important; the Yijing is not just an academic pursuit. * Contemplating the I Ching *
This is the best summary in any Western language of the origins, structure, evolution, cultural significance, and transnational travels of the Yijing (Scripture of Change), one of the most important texts in all of Chinese history. * Richard J. Smith, Rice University *
Taking a culturally comparative perspective, Adler does a superb job of demonstrating how "The Yijing represents the 'essence' of Chinese culture". * Choice *
Table of Contents1. What is the Yijing? 2. Layers of Change 3. Yijing Divination 4. The Early History of Yijing Interpretation 5. Early Modern Views of the Yi 6. The Yijing in Modern China and the West 7. Why the Yijing? Bibliography
