Secrets of the I Ching (Reward Classics) (Paperback)

by Joseph Murphy (Author) "The I Ching, or Book of Changes is an almost poetic work of mystic sayings and striking symbols with a deep, hidden significance..." (more)
Key Phrases: Keeping Still, Book of Changes, Golden Rule (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
The classic guide to tapping the practical benefits of an age-old book of wisdom--revised to captivate today's spiritual seekers

Based on the revered Chinese philosophy with a 5,000-year-old tradition, the I Ching, or Book of Changes, is rich in revelations. An eminent expert on the powers of the subconscious, Dr. Joseph Murphy opens the guiding force of this ancient text to anyone with an appreciation of the possibilities. With the help of three coins--ordinary pennies will do-- readers will learn to apply their intuitive abilities to receive the I Ching's answers.

With a practical outlook, this hands-on guide presents simple techniques for enlisting the I Ching's aid in everyday problem-solving and decision-making. Murphy explains the I Ching hexagram system, revealing its roots in human psychology and the principle of constant change. Demystifying obscure terms and symbols, the author leads the way to consulting the I Ching for clarity and guidance in times of confusion and crisis. By combining basic mathematical formulas with spiritual awareness, readers will realize the miracle-working potential of their own mind and connect with the I Ching's truths. As a result, they'll gain vital insights into questions about career, family, romance, financial security, and life goals. And they'll discover the wonder of genuine peace of mind.

SECRETS OF THE I CHING, does not claim to predict the future. But it does provide the tools to mark any future with the promise of greater personal and spiritual fulfillment. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

About the Author
Dr. Joseph Murphy, D.D., D.R.S., Ph.D., L.L.D., was widely regarded as one of the world's foremost authorities on the powers of the subconscious mind. The author of more than 30 books on mysticism and mind dynamics, he remains a beacon of enlightenment and inspiration for legions of loyal followers. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Prentice Hall Trade (November 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0137980833
• ISBN-13: 978-0137980833
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #2,589,691 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Loved this book, October 28, 2000

By	Julie Ketchum "[e-mail]" (Boulder, Utah USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Secrets Of The I - Ching (Paperback)

I am a fan of Joseph Murphy. His books have helped me this past year more than any other to create my future and understand that I need to control my thoughts. This book is my first I Ching book. It is well written and easy to understand. I find that when I ask a question, the answer easily goes to the topic at hand and of course helps me to heal my mind in that area, besides helps me choose a course of action. This is a good first book.

29 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The I Ching from a Western point of view........, December 19, 2000

By	Ruth Henriquez Lyon (Duluth, Minnesota USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Secrets Of The I - Ching (Paperback)

This book has much to recommend it. The strongest chapters are the first few, in which Murphy gives the background of the I Ching and talks about synchronicity and the linkage between the subconscious and universal minds. His description of how to consult the oracle (using pennies) is very clear and easy for any novice to understand. As far as his view of the I Ching goes, he sees it as being closely connected in spirit with Western metaphysical thinking. The entire second half of the book comprises the interpretations of the hexagrams, using biblical passages instead of the original Chinese judgements and images. For me this doesn't really work, as most of Murphy's biblically based interpretations are far too general to have much application. Like the newspaper horoscopes, with imagination they could be interpreted any old way.

Thus, if you are a purist who wants a translation of the I Ching which most closely follows the Chinese version, I would not recommend this. I would instead go with the Wilhelm/Barnes version published by Bollingen--this is the translation Jung used and it's very good reading in and of itself. However, for learning to use the I Ching, Murphy's book is a fine introduction.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A positive Western perspective on our old friend, June 8, 2004

By	The Anonymous Reviewer (Redmond, WA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Secret of the I Ching (Hardcover)

I found a copy at the thrift store. It's on my desk now. I use a desktop PC to 'cast coins', then flip to this edition. It's been my fav for a couple of months now.
This edition provides interpretations based on Biblical reflections of the images in the I Ching. If you have ever fallen in love with God, you will like how Murphy couches every interpretation as an opportunity to turn it over to God, return to God, seek inspiration from God, trust God's wisdom. He does this for each and every line of every hexagram. Using this approach constitutes a great contribution to the I Ching genre and a huge achievment in synthesis.