The I-Ching is a Chinese system of divination which has survived for over five thousand years. It is thought that the original teaching came from one individual - Fu His. While it is Chinese in its essence, the I-Ching contains ideas which are clearly not Chinese, thereby indicating that the writers who have contributed to the texts were acquainted with other cultures. Thus its value is not limited to oriental life styles, but may be applied around the world.

The basic approach to an I-Ching reading was to throw yarrow sticks, or more often coins. With the coins, heads or tails and the number of each determined the value of the toss. Six tosses generated the six lines of the hexagram. Each possible combination has a text connected to it. In addition, each line has a particular meaning. Sometimes the translation from Chinese to English doesn't make sense at first. If you put yourself in place of a Chinese person in a less modern society, you begin to experience the value of the oracle. It allows you to relate to your environment, to people, and even to yourself in new and interesting ways. Generally the I-Ching relates to a current situation, telling you one way to evaluate all that is happening to you. You naturally have the choice to accept its interpretation

It is important to understand that, as with the Runes, Tarot and Ogham, with the I-Ching you can ask for a problem to be clarified or a message of wisdom given - rather than simply seeking an answer to a question. The I-Ching can give insight to an issue of concern. Sometimes it can lighten particular aspects of a situation and at other times it can provide advice related to the general energies of what is happening in life or what is important to look at or to work upon. If the I-Ching suggests change do something positive about it. If it suggests you do nothing, take heed, for the I-Ching always gives clear pointers.

However, the I-Ching will not state any definitive, unchangeable event. Its message is often necessarily vague, as it is important for you to make up your own mind about a matter. Specific questions are very difficult to answer, and the I-Ching should be used as a guideline rather than a hard and fast way to behave. So, rather than ask 'Will I win the Lottery?', the I-Ching will be more productive if you ask something like 'How can I improve my financial situation?'.

Before you consult the I-Ching, take a few moments to relax, breathe deeply and concentrate on your question. When you are ready consult the I-Ching and your reading will appear. Please bear in mind that the I-Ching will become tired if asked many questions - resulting in the same I-Ching hexagram consistently appearing. If this happens, come back later and ask again.
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