I Ching : A New Interpretation for Modern Times

Rating:
Summary: Perhaps my favorite translation
Review: The copy I currently have of this book is from 1985, having worn out at least one previous copy. I'm delighted to see that it is still available, since I recently loaned my copy to my teenaged son, who was seeking an accessible translation of the I Ching. I was loath to let it leave the house until I verified that it could be replaced at Amazon.

The other reviewer is correct that the introduction is rather short for someone not already familiar with the I Ching (or at least divination systems in general), but it is sufficient to allow the user to dive right in. Each hexagram is given interpretations in modern English for the three critical areas of life that three quarters of all divination is done: "artha" (work), "kama" (love), and "moksha" (spirituality). Here's my only complaint then, for one on health would have covered that last quarter!

Despite the use of the three Sanscrit terms, the book is faithful to the Chinese cultural context of the I Ching and neither talks down to nor over the head of the reader. Anyone over the age of 14 should be able to read and use this book with success, though those under 30 may refuse to believe some of the practical but not-much-fun advice the oracle will dispense. It's like talking to a reasonably hip Chinese American grandfather. But I'll stop now, before I wax on and wax off too much....

Rating:
Summary: Modern Twist on an Ancient Classic
Review: The translation of "I Ching" means "book of change", and this specific translation really captures the true spirit of the text. While the introduction is a bit short for those new to the subject, the rest of the book features interpretations which are very sharp and relate to a "western" point of view. Where many I Ching books have a specific focus (like the "Buddhist I Ching" or "the I Ching of Romance") each hexagram has three sets of interpretations which allow you to get a business, relationship or spiritual oriented take on any question. The insights are filled with many current references, and Reifler avoids the trap getting too "new age" or literal about his subject. Don't judge this book by the cover, it's a classic that has now been around for over 25 years. If you already own a translation or two of this book, you may want to think about adding this edition to your library.

Rating:
Summary: Modern Twist on an Ancient Classic
Review: The translation of "I Ching" means "book of change", and this specific translation really captures the true spirit of the text. While the introduction is a bit short for those new to the subject, the rest of the book features interpretations which are very sharp and relate to a "western" point of view. Where many I Ching books have a specific focus (like the "Buddhist I Ching" or "the I Ching of Romance") each hexagram has three sets of interpretations which allow you to get a business, relationship or spiritual oriented take on any question. The insights are filled with many current references, and Reifler avoids the trap getting too "new age" or literal about his subject. Don't judge this book by the cover, it's a classic that has now been around for over 25 years. If you already own a translation or two of this book, you may want to think about adding this edition to your library.

Rating:
Summary: Like having your own personal guru...
Review: This version of the I-ching is one of the best out there. Like having your own personal guru, continual use of this book will bring the anxieties and complications of your life into blissful perspective. Why is this version the best? It manages to combine simplicity and directness with the complexity and beauty of eastern philosophy. Get this book and use it often!