Total I Ching

by Stephen Karcher

The I Ching (pronounced ee-ching) is the oldest and most respected oracle or divinatory system in the world. There are currently two translations available which offer somewhat conflicting interpretations - the popular Confucian version and an earlier Taoist version called Zhouyi. Reconstructed by twentieth-century scholars and archaeologists, Zhouyi presents the highly imaginative world of myth and ritual that is the hidden base of thousands of years of Eastern thought.

Now, for the first time ever, Stephen Karcher fuses these two traditions using modern scholarship and archaeological and linguistic research, along with a wide background in Eastern philosophy and comparative religion, and presents them to the modern Western reader in a comprehensive and accessible new form. TOTAL I CHING is a complete oracle with instruction for immediate use in all life situations, but is also the first translation to detail the mythology of the divinatory system, offering a revolutionary new approach to the world's oldest wisdom tradition.

Genres: Divination, Philosophy, Nonfiction, Reference, Spirituality, Taoism, Religion

464 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2004

Reviews

[Phil James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without doubt the best version of the I Ching I've come across. The author clearly explains where the images originated in the the ritual and political history of ancient china and still makes them relevant to the modern reader. I especially liked the drawings showing the evolution of the chinese characters.

[Shaman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This work is obviously very inspired and based on years of sincere research. But the fact that it doesn't site the sources of the translated parts or offer much on HOW its conclusions were reached is to its detriment. A glossary of the translated terminology and more on the processes behind the research would be a great improvement. Having gotten that out of my system, it is still a very worthy read for I Ching enthusiasts and a pleasure in many ways.

[Casey Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was based on a recommendation from a friend who's been using the I-Ching for about 40 years and has read several copies. He told me this is the one to get so I got it. I'm a logical guy that likes to tap into the my unlogical mind on a regular basis (perhaps a little to regularly...) I read the full introduction and how to consult the book, made about 7 consultations and have been very pleased with the results.

Whether you are like me and believe you're getting guidance from the spirit realm, or you're like me and just like the additional insight that's unlocked through getting a different perspective on a problem that's bothering you, you will enjoy using this book.

My daoist wizardry skills increased at least 33 degrees by adding this to my library.

(This is a review of the 2009 edition)

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely not an intro-level book. I've been using the I Ching on and off for over 10 years and I struggled with some of it. Takes use of the I Ching beyond lines and changing lines, some of which I find useful, some I don't. When reading the meanings of the hexagrams, I tend use this in combination with other books.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have read the first part and skimmed through the rest. The idea of asking a question and finding out the answer like this is not really my thing. Though it has some great ideas for life in general.

[Joe Fiala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cheezy looking cover, but we all know the appropriate adage there...This book has oracle bones, which is incredibly useful. Worth it just for that, but decent interpretations as well.

[Eric Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far the most useful and beautiful translation of this classic work. I don't leave home without it - seriously.

[Shanta Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

one of three or four absolutely essential English translations of the I Ching

[Barnaby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very accessible. Well done. I take it with me everywhere I go.