*Tortoise shell with divination inscription from the Shang dynasty.

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The I Ching or Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text. Possessing a history of more than 5000 years of commentary and interpretation. The I Ching is read throughout the world, providing inspiration to the worlds of religion, psychoanalysis, politics, business, music, cosmology, literature, and art. Change is the central idea behind the I Ching. Nothing in life and in the universe is fixed or unchanging. All things in the universe are interlinked and constantly moving and changing. We are all in a state of flux and transition and on a path to understanding and embracing change.

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The I Ching focuses on Yin and Yang. Masculine and feminine energy fields. Yin corresponds to receptive, mutable and contracting energy, while Yang corresponds to active, creative and expansive energy. The balance between these two energies is ever-changing and transforming. The concept of balance between Yin and Yang flow of energy have a deep and meaningful relationship in the I Ching and that of the universe as a whole because everything in the universe is generated from the Yin-Yang polarity and the flow between the two opposing yet complementary energies.

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In divination the I Ching offers guidance like a wise old philosopher. It reveals all possibilities for change and improvement and the best course of action in any given situation. The I Ching also has deep spiritual connotations focusing on the importance of working hard on becoming a superior person - a higher being. The I Ching gives the analogy of a dragon to describe the traits of a superior person. In China dragons traditionally symbolize potent and auspicious powers. The dragon is a symbol of power, strength, and good luck. A dragon always succeeds in overcoming obstacles.

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In the I Ching commentaries a superior person is someone who is immune to the effects of change. They have the power to rise above it all without losing their individuality and purpose in life. A superior person is a humanitarian leader who cares for the general welfare and common good and aims to bring about peace in the world, whose actions are based on correct conduct, high morals and justice. Self awareness is the true path of the superior person because they never act against their true nature. A superior person constantly sets personal goals, focuses on self improvement and imposes their own direction in life.

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