3 Responses to Video 3: how (not) to consult the Book of Changes

  1. Marius Kemler says:

    Een bijzonder verhelderend commentaar op bet dagelijks gebruik van de I.T
    Zeer inspirerend. Ik zit nog met een aantal vragen maar die kan. Ik later wel stellen.
    Groetjes
    Marius Kemler

  2. R. Brad Schwartz says:

    An interesting attempt to expand applicability of the use of the Book. But in regard to the opinion that a formulated question is not necessary, I would say it is still ‘very useful’, because the Book is a collection of words, and your words (question) will have a more focused connection with the Book’s response (its words). I don’t think this vestige of shell oracle readings, which were always asked in the positive and the negative context, is yet outdated. Words have proved very helpful to me when approaching the Book, as I have found great insights in similarities b/w question & response language. I guess I follow the direction of the 1st line (intuitive line), hexagram 19, Approach in this matter. Thank you for your in-depth videos, Herman.

    • The numerous times that I am called ‘Herman’ make me consider if I should register it as my middle name 🙂

      Thank you for your thoughts on this, Brad. I don’t see the Yijing as a ‘collection of words’ – more as a ‘collection of images.’ After all the Yi is more than text. The problem with words is that they set limits: when you name something you exclude something else. That is also what happens when you ask questions with words: you exclude that which is not expressed by the words that you used (see also https://www.yjcn.nl/wp/questioning-the-question/). Sometimes words cannot express what you feel, but what you feel can also be addressed to the oracle. Words are not always necessary. And choosing the right words, often a thought/mind process, can distract you from what you really need to know. When you have a question: use it. When you don’t have a question: don’t force yourself to create one. If you need a response from the oracle (as 咸 in H19.1) just consult it and see what it gives you. I find it always better to trust the Yi instead of my own limited perception. And the words of your question can be formed by a limited perception: they can never contain what you cannot see.

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