Total I Ching: Myths for Change

by Stephen Karcher, Anonymous

I Ching is the oldest, most respected divinatory system in the world. There are currently two kinds of translations available, which offer conflicting interpretations�the Confucian version and an earlier version called Zhouyi. Reconstructed by 20th-century scholars and archaeologists, Zhouyi presents the imaginative world of myth and ritual that is the basis of Eastern thought. Now, for the first time, Stephen Karcher fuses these two traditions using modern scholarship, archaeological and linguistic research, Eastern philosophy, and comparative religion, presenting them to the Western reader in a comprehensive, accessible, and vivid new form. Total I Ching is a complete oracle with instructions for use in all life situations. It is also the first translation to detail the mythology of the divinatory system, the Myths for Change.

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

451 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.