Working with the I Ching

In my studies of the Isshinryu Karate-do system I was introduced to the "ken-po goku-i" as I would assume all Isshinryu practitioners but espresso that it is sometimes not good to "assume." Anyway, because of this it has led me into the realm of the I Ching, Analects, etc. or what some refer to as the Ancient Chinese Classics.

In that period of ongoing and never ending study I have come to the conclusion that as an American, meaning I am not Chinese; not Okinawa; not Japanese, in order to benefit from the study of the I Ching it is strongly recommended you study more than "one" translation.

In my view having a copy of all the Wilhelm and Legge books is necessary as they all provide information that is not necessarily in the others as well as different interpretations and views. Considering the simplicity/complexity of the books not to mention in detail the interpretation of Chinese characters or pictograms, etc. warrants a collecting of all these views, opinions, and interpretations. It is important, from my perspective, to collectively analyze them all and come to your own conclusions.

In the end the interpretation and use as a means of divining answers to questions takes an individual and unique view. The book has lasted so long and through extreme turmoil that its fundamental and non-individualized writings leaves it open so it can influence everyone in every manner with out prejudice of any one individual. If it were just one persons book it would be just a book much like Stephen Kings books, each unique in its story. The I Ching is not topic specific other than a guide to life and nature, etc.

Words never truly convey what it is and what it means ergo why it is an individual book with meaning to each person who reads and utilizes it. Worth the effort and costs to bring together all the possibilities provided by the insight of each interpreter/translator. When reading each don't accept or reject anything, let it mull for a while like a fine wine and when it is ready for consumption let it breathe and then partake of its uniqueness.