I Ching: A New Interpretation for Modern Times

by Sam Reifler

"HESITATION, ANXIETY, DISSATISFACTION ARE TO THE TAOIST WHAT SIN IS TO THE CHRISTIAN TO DISPEL THEM AND CLEAR THE MIND AND HEART THE I CHING IS DEVOUTLY CAST."

For centuries the Chinese have consulted the I Ching both as an oracle and as a means of self-understanding. the moral and psychological depth of its wisdom has been celebrated by scholars, psychologists, poets, and scientists. In this clear, immensely readable interpretation, Sam Reifler eliminates the obscure and dated references of previous translations to provide an accurate and accessible version of the ancient Chinese classic for the contemporary seeker. With easy-to-follow instructions for using both the yarrow stalk and the coin-toss method, this new interpretation of the I Ching reveals the hidden forces at work in our relationships, our careers, and our emotional lives - and suggests new directions and choices for the future.
For everyone who seeks to better understand themselves and the world around them, this new translation of the I Ching is a practical and remarkably effective pathway to enlightenment.

Genres: Philosophy, Reference, Divination, Religion

274 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1974

Reviews

[Judith Praag · Rating 5 out of 5]

This version of the I Ching has been my travel companion for nearly 40 years. And yes, I was tossing the coins as a teenager in Groningen, as a married YA in Los Angeles, and as a single young woman on the town in Utrecht, Amsterdam, Paris, Berlin, Houston and Austin.

Sam Reifler's no-nonsense, in my mind not black and white, but open ended approach spoke and speaks to me like none other. His language evokes imagery that changes with each cast, even if the hexagram is identical to an earlier one.

While coming off age, the I Ching provided a guideline, a way to access age-old wisdom, consulting the oracle a form of meditation that helped me center myself in difficult situations, which, I'm sure, has had influence on who I am today.

Today I sense it's time to start sharing wisdom from the book of changes again, and guess where I'll look?

PS this is not a book you finish reading. This book is a gift that keeps on giving.

[Ben Walter · Rating 5 out of 5]

feels wrong shelving this as “read” bc it’s not really a book you read as much as it is one you use. anyways i’ve thrown the i ching a couple times since getting this version and it has given me prescient and helpful results. also i think this version of the book gives a really nice background to someone with no experience in ancient chinese oracles as well as very easy to interpret translations

[Liquidlasagna · Rating 5 out of 5]

biroco

I Ching – A New Interpretation for Modern Times: Sam Reifler

Has a tendency to render every situation as make-or-break. It's perceptive, but speaks of the spiritual brashly. Makes everything sound fixed, has none of the finesse I associate with the Book of Changes. Reifler seems a hard-bitten realist, which introduces a tinge of cynicism. His interpretations of difficult situations veer towards looking on the black side.

.........

Personally i like

Wilhelm - Wing - Reifler as my fave three

if you find clearer translations, let me know... no matter how light or deep you are a pondering of things....

[Zachary]

best translation

[Belle Meade School]

299.512

[Harvee Lau · Rating 5 out of 5]

No, I'm not superstitious, but using the I Ching can be fun. It's general enough so that you can interpret the result in different ways. And it's often uncannily accurate! More...