The I-Ching Connection

By Jon Sandifer

This article explains the deep connection between the world’s oldest oracle, the I Ching, and the most ancient astrological system.

The I Ching still remains unsurpassed as a blueprint for the universe. So, its longevity as the oldest book in continuous use is hardly surprising.

The universal laws embodied in the trigrams and hexagrams of the 5000 year old treatise have meant that its application has over the millennia embraced all fields of human endeavour, including medicine, philosophy, religion, and, of course, astrology.

As W.A. Sherrill and W.K. Chu conclude in their classic 1977 work, “An Anthology of I Ching”: “This is predicated on the concept that I Ching describes the evolution of the world and encompasses everything in and of the world. This makes an astrology derived from it, not only possible, but inevitable.”

The ancient Chinese regarded humans as elements of time – and as in western astrology the time of birth determines and reflects our character and personality. In I Ching Astrology, the astrological profile is built from the Birth, Inner and Outer stars which are all represented by a particular trigram.

That any of us should be an “inevitable” product of the I Ching hinges on the proven track record it has for mapping the Laws of Evolution and Change. The time-tested oracular power of the revered text meant that the ancient astrologers found it possible to track an individual’s progress through life with some degree of accuracy.

Interpreters of the I Ching have, however, always pointed out that fate is always subject to the workings of free will. Predisposition is one thing; outcome another. But watching the nine year, month and weekly cycles of I Ching Astrology means that we can remain conscious of the “best” times to do what we need to do.

Man’s position as the middle line in the trigrams – above earth but beneath heaven – reflect the daily interaction of the mental, physical and spiritual, as we go about the business of life.

Back in 1949, Carl Jung challenged the world to explore the I Ching with these words: “The I Ching does not offer itself with proofs and results; it does not vaunt itself, nor is it easy to approach. Like a part of nature, it waits until it is discovered. It offers neither facts nor power, but for lovers of self-knowledge, of wisdom -- if there be such -- it seems to be the right book. To one person its spirit appears as clear as day; to another, shadowy as twilight; to a third, dark as night. He who is not pleased by it does not have to use it, and he who is against it is not obliged to find it true. Let it go forth into the world for the benefit of those who can discern its meaning.”

These very same truths apply to I Ching Astrology. I hope you enjoy exploring what I have always found an endlessly fascinating system.

For more information visit, www.iching-astrology.com