The I Ching's journey from an ancient divination text (the Zhouyi) to one of the most revered books in Chinese civilization involved a significant transformation in its perceived status and purpose. A crucial part of this was its canonization as one of the "Five Classics" (五經, Wujing) of Confucianism, a collection of texts considered foundational to Chinese culture, education, and governance for millennia.
This article will discuss the significance of being a "Classic" (Jing), the historical context of the Five Classics' formation, and how the I Ching, particularly with the addition of the Ten Wings, earned its esteemed place within this canonical collection.
Layers of Wisdom: The Ten Wings and Philosophical Expansion
Exploring the Ten Wings (Shiyi), the Confucian commentaries that transformed the I Ching into a profound philosophical classic, detailing their content and impact.
The Confucian Lens: Early Shaping of I Ching's Meaning
Investigating the initial impact of Confucian thought and its proponents in interpreting the I Ching, emphasizing its moral and ethical dimensions beyond divination.