top of page
I Ching (Book of Changes)
King Wen, the Duke of Zhou, and Confucius
Translator: James Legge (1899)
c. 1000 BCE

Sacred Texts Arhive
The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, is one of the oldest and most revered texts in Chinese literature. Traditionally attributed to King Wen, the Duke of Zhou, and Confucius, this ancient divination text has been used for centuries to provide guidance and insight into the natural world and human affairs. The I Ching consists of 64 hexagrams, each composed of six lines that can be either broken or unbroken, representing various states and processes in life.
The text is not only a tool for divination but also a profound philosophical work that explores the principles of change and the interconnectedness of all things. It has influenced Chinese culture, philosophy, and spirituality for millennia and continues to be a source of wisdom and inspiration for people around the world.
James Legge's translation, first published in 1899, remains one of the most respected English versions of the I Ching. His work provides a comprehensive and accessible interpretation of this complex and enigmatic text, making it available to a wider audience.
bottom of page