I Ching (Shambhala Pocket Classics)

A nice short translation, easy to carry around in your pocket if you are so inclined. But its brevity can also be a flaw. Without any commentary, the abstract symbolism is sometimes lost, as well as any understanding of what the symbols might have meant 3000 years ago when the I Ching was first written.

I Ching: The Book of Change is an ancient Chinese text on divination and cosmology. It is the basis of many traditional Taoist writings, including Tao Te Ching and The Art of War. The I Ching isn't exactly a sit-down and enjoy kind of book; instead, it functions as a reference guide for oracle reading. Traditionally, people used coins, yarrow sticks, and bones to cast lots. The resulting numbers then corresponded with hexagrams--mystic symbols that foretold different outcomes. I admit that I'm a skeptic when it comes to fortunetelling and other supernatural rituals. However, the I Ching is an important part of Chinese history, not just in its practice but also in its far-reaching influence over East Asian culture and philosophy. This show more edition of the book, published by Shambhala, is part of their pocketbook series on religion and philosophy. It includes an introduction and guide to using the I Ching as well as a handy consultation chart.

Full disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Goodreads. show less