We’ve been following the I Ching for a few entries and I want to give a brief introduction to their meaning. Or more importantly, the historic significance of the lines, their meaning, and ensuing commentaries of the hexagrams. There are sixty-four entries the I Ching. My own commentary is simply what came to me during a time of intense study and reflection. Not necessarily from an academic approach, but simply my own personal account during a time of great turbulence and change in my own life. We will be following the I Ching daily for the next few months so that we can all get better acquainted.
Much later when I showed my manuscript to a publisher in Beijing, they eagerly agreed to publish my book about the I Ching ten years after I wrote it. The complete book was originally entitled “An American journey through the I Ching and Beyond”. The book now appears here on my website and can be found under the Books heading as “The I Ching – Voices of the Dragon”. This book was truly the introduction to Chinese history and philosophy that was become my passion for the rest of my life.
In retrospect, all these years later what was occurring was my acknowledging, respecting, and following my eternal memories. This could easily be called my waking up at the age of forty-one as to who I am and to the path I am here to follow. This was writing one hundred entries over one hundred days that was to become my personal benchmark going forward.
What I have learned is that we lean towards others we have known through our memories who exemplify benevolence and virtue who share the traits we have always known. What that means in the present is that we are to be known by the empathy we show and what we share with all things found in nature.
Number 15 of the I Ching
Oncoming immortality
Remaining pretentious and keeping to ostentation in one’s actions brings unwanted attention.
Simplify! Simplify! When leaving one’s house and shutting the door to visit friends and neighbors it is important to wear and show the proper countenance about oneself. But first you must know without knowing to succeed.
Strive to be of no account and be truly accounted for by all you encounter. Others will seek your favor as you are soon noted for your wise counsel, knowledge of events and as a good teacher. Remain unpretentious and find sincerity and kindness knowing that if you forget today’s lesson the only thing, you’ll meet is scorn.
Propriety well placed will be received modestly by all. Making your goals and ambitions the goals and ambitions of all will bring everyone to your doorstep seeking comfort in your shadow. But first you must know without knowing to succeed.
Know humility and restraint. Know how to become unassuming and know constraint. Refrain from entering the fray on the side of self-interest and know your true self. Enjoy a reputation and retreat into the peacefulness of all things.
An original composition and interpretation of the Chinese Classic the I Ching (15 MODESTY / Earth over Heaven). 2/12/94
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