The I Ching, or Chinese Book of Changes, is the world's oldest divinatory method to remain intact. As an oracle, it sets out a framework of symbols and readings which give insight into the forces--literally, the changes--occurring at any particular moment in time and which can provide answers to questions about our lives, relationships, health, wealth, and happiness.

The first creators of the I Ching studied the stars and tides, plants and animals, as well as the rhythms of natural forces such as wind, thunder, fire, and water. They began to recognize repeating patterns in their kinship and families, in commerce and politics, and in the eternal dramas of love, ambition, conflict, and honor. In time, this led to a complex, intertwined pattern of relationships that placed a central importance on the eternal metamorphosis of all things.

The I Ching consists of 64 hexagrams, or six-lined figures, each of which has a name and carries a brief description. Anyone who wishes to consult the I Ching simply focuses on a question, constructs a hexagram following simple instructions, and then looks up its meaning for the answer.

Marlies Holitzka offers a direct approach to this ancient Chinese wisdom and its interpretations in this fully illustrated, detailed guidebook. A deck of 64 oracle cards, each beautifully illustrated in traditional Chinese colors and style with pen and ink drawings by Klaus Holitzka, completes this unique set.