Introduction to the I Ching
This course introduces the philosophical insights of the I Ching, focusing on self-cultivation and the mental strength to face oneself in the present moment. It explains in a clear and accessible way the concepts of yin-yang interaction in the cosmos, the structure of the 64 hexagrams, principles of divination, and the Ten Wings of the Commentaries on the I Ching. The course aims to inspire students' interest in classical texts and apply ancient wisdom to modern life and decision-making.
Course Overview
Content Summary
This course introduces the philosophical dimensions of self-cultivation and mental strength in confronting oneself in the present through the lens of the I Ching. It explains in accessible terms the cosmic view of yin-yang interaction, the structure of the sixty-four hexagrams, principles of divination, and the "Ten Wings" commentary. The aim is to inspire students' interest in classical wisdom and apply ancient insights to modern life and decision-making patterns.
Explore the ancient wisdom of the I Ching to unlock modern mental enlightenment for self-cultivation and decision-making.
Author: Hu Yixiang
Acknowledgments: General Education Center, Kaohsiung Municipal Open University
Learning Objectives
- Correctly distinguish the natural correspondences and attribute characteristics of yin and yang, and use the "Eight Trigrams Image Song" to identify basic trigram forms.
- State the historical contributions of the "Four Sages" to the development of the I Ching system, and understand their logic by comparing it with Descartes’ methodological approach.
- Master the composition of the sixty-four hexagrams, pronunciation of the six lines, and the judgment of "proper position," and apply techniques such as changing, opposite, mutual, and transformed hexagrams for analytical purposes.
- Identify the fundamental images and symbolic meanings of the Qian, Kun, Kan, and Gen trigrams.
- Understand the operational process of the simple three-coin divination method, and differentiate the definitions of old yang, young yang, young yin, and old yin.
- Apply the rule of changing lines to interpret future trends indicated by the "current state" and the "changed hexagram."
- Accurately analyze the specific statements of the Qian and Kun hexagrams and their individual line texts, understanding the spirit of heavenly self-strengthening and earthly tolerance.
- Explain the symbolic significance of the Zun hexagram in the early stages of enterprise development, and apply its line wisdom to overcome initial developmental challenges.
- Elucidate the educational principles embedded in the Meng hexagram, especially the importance of proactive learning and discipline.
- Distinguish the core imagery of the Xu, Song, Shi, and Bi hexagrams and their applications in management and decision-making.