Celestial Dragon Edition of the I Ching H-1 to H-8      ICHINGCE.TXT
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       The sky first opened and The Celestial Dragon Edition was born into
       the world. Ultilizing the ancient manuscripts and scores of assorted
       commentary, the Celestial Dragon Edition allows the English reader
       to understand the Book of Change in English, the same way a Chinese
       reader would understand it if they read it in Chinese. Chinese has
       different concepts of language that English. Not only does a word
       represent each Hexagram, but rather something called an
       'ideogram'...that is a picture that makes a word. We have attempted
       to replicate the Ideogram for the English reader by assigning a
       feasible image that the reader can conjure in their mind. Take
       Hexagram #59 for example....In traditional English translations,
       this is entitled 'Scattering.' Now scattering can mean a lot of
       things and if a reader pulled this for their inquiry...they may or
       may not be able to conjure the correct image in their mind. If a
       reader pulls Hexagram #59 in the Celestial Dragon Edition, they will
       find it aptly tilted 'The Ship.' With verse and imagery to describe
       this one step in the 64 step cycle of life. Furthermore, in our
       research, we have uncovered an algorithm within the Hexagrams that
       has allowed us to add a seventh commentary for each Hexagram. This
       commentary is to be used when All Six changing lines are thrown for
       the reading. For it be well known that an inquiry with 6 changing
       lines be in a different ballpark altogether than one with perhaps 4
       or 5 changing lines. To demonstrate the Celestial Dragon edition, we
       have posted the text for the first 8 Hexagrams below. We cannot
       place the whole book online at this time as we are engaged in in the
       process of selecting the correct publisher for the print edition.
       However, if you are an I Ching scholar and would like to examine the
       completed text, then send me an email and we will talk. Enjoy.

       this is protected by copyright 2003

1- The Dragon The Power of Creation - Endless Heaven

Six Dragons ride forth and nourish the Earth. Clouds burst forth and bring rain.
What is willed shall be as he walks upon the righteous path and the World
reshapes itself around the power of his Word. Understand the nature of creation,
acting with boldness and without hesitation. Action is favored.

1st – The Hidden Dragon – The wise man conceals his light and retreats to the
mountain to turn his thoughts inwards. He does not seek from the outside and is
content with the practice of perfecting himself. He does this because he must
first learn to master himself before he would think to master others.

2nd – The Exposed Dragon – Critics spy him upon the road and analyze his works.
In speech he must now be humble, elusive and would do well to take council from
a wise elder.

3rd – The Working Dragon – Though a self imposed yoke, he throws himself into
the details of his work. Trouble threatens, but through meticulous certainty and
by tying up all loose ends, he is able to remain awake through the night until
the danger has passed. This implies working very hard to avert a perilous
situation.

4th – The Leaping Dragon – Though the road may seem dark, now is the time to
leap forward into uncertainty and put our faith in the tumble of the dice. If we
have sufficient faith, then luck will be on our side. Wild horses cannot stop
us.

5th – The Soaring Dragon – He leaves behind those who dwell on land and seeks
out his own kind. It is advised to take council from a wise elder and to leave
behind those who do not support our goals. After arrival, we look up to see that
those who also have wings will have followed.

6th – The Empty Dragon – Though he be righteous in his cause, his power has
departed for the time being. Sparks do not ignite, people do not follow and
mountains will not move. It is best now to cease action and retreat to a place
where we may contemplate the high and low tides of thought and creation.

All Six – The Headless Dragon – Like the sperm entering the egg, the dragon
merges with the cave, the right with the left in this ultimate act of creation.
Both cease to be as the child of dawn incubates and is born into the world.
Ultimate Success!



2 – The Cave The Power of Receptivity – Endless Earth

Like the female who opens her womb and willfully allows the seed to penetrate,
we submit to the creative power and willfully allow our actions to be guided. At
first there may be fear and confusion, but if we remain within the confines of
our garden and gravitate towards those of our own kind, then in the end we shall
rule through submission. The west and south are favored and we shall achieve
what is willed though the touch of a feather.

1st – The Cave of Ice – The winter of our heart is approaching. Days grow
shorter and outwardly, not much may be accomplished. Now we must rest on the
laurels of our acquired merit and know that what we have stored is enough to
bring us through to the dawn of the spring. The wise man acts with caution and
spends frugally.

2nd – The Supply Cave – We were wise to see the cave was well stocked before the
coming of winter. Now all we must to is retreat to this shelter and enjoy what
we have prepared. What has been willed will come to fruition through no further
action on our part.

3rd – The Concealed Cave – Like the mistresses of the desert who conceals her
beauty behind a veil and rules her husband through subtle suggestion, we should
hide our cards well and achieve victory through well directed whispers in the
dark. Once the suggestion has taken hold, we may lift our cloak and radiate our
power so as to close the deal.

4th – The Patient Cave – The storm swirls outside and we should consider advance
only with extreme caution, for trouble may be afoot. The wise man is the patient
man.

5th - The Cave of the Honey Bee – The Queen has established her hive and
nourishes us with her nectar. We should know that we already posses that which
we think we seek! Action may be taken, but what is the point?

6th – Leaving the Cave – Our supplies are exhausted and the enemy appears on the
plains. We have no choice but to lay down our head and strike. Victory is not
certain, but will rather be determined by a measure of faith. Good luck!

All Six – Furnishing the Cave – Daily work and folly are our only salvation. We
must now dig in our heels and focus on the long term goal of consistency.



3 – The Storm The Fury from Above – Water and Thunder

The clouds gather to spit forth thunder and rain. The wise man does not seek to
attempt the mountain pass, but rather consolidates his present position and
builds a shelter for the encroaching storm.

1st – Scent of the Storm – The sky may seem clear, but the wind protrudes ill
omen. The wise man does not advance, but rather co-operates with those under his
care to consolidate the present position.

2nd – The Storm Approaches – The hunter is unable to capture the doe. Moisture
can be felt in the air. Better to wait, but if he insists on pursuing, he will
chase his own tail for ten years, after which she will give her consent.

3rd – The Storm Breaks – The hunter plunged into the forest without a guide and
finds himself amidst the torrents. Best now to build a shelter and wait for the
sun. Next time, he should use more caution.

4th – The Storm Calms – The rain stops, but the clouds still hover overhead.
Instead of chasing the doe, the hunter lays scent and waits for her willful
approach. Good fortune will come through patience and righteous intention.

5th – The Storm Departs – The sky clears and we return to the field to find that
we have planted the wrong crops. Overwatered! We may pick berries for
sustenance, but attempts to harvest a ruined field is disaster.

6th – Casualties of the Storm – The hunter returns to his camp to find his
companions are dead and the camp is in ruins. For three days he will shed blood
and tears, but this too will pass. In the distance, birds are singing. He should
forget about the past and follow that sound.

All Six – Riding the Storm – The hunter jumps onto the back of danger and rides
her to a new land and a fresh start.



4 – The Child Birth Pains – Mountain Stream

We should not seek out the child or attempt to give council to a deaf ear;
rather it is time to cultivate our own power. Should they come to us asking for
assistance, then we slowly begin to divulge our wisdom. If they are impatient
and enjoy talking more than listening, then we shall turn a deaf ear to future
inquires. A need for contemplation and proper direction is stressed. A
disciplined education is required.

1st – The Unresponsive Child – Sometimes for the sake of education, discipline
is required. This can come in the form of tedious tasks or even a quick switch
on the bottom! Though for discipline to be effective (and not a function of the
dispensers pride,) the punishment must cause more sorrow to the giver than to
the receiver. Such is the sacrifice when taking a parental role.

2nd – The Harmonious Child – In this case, gentleness and compassion will
achieve the desired results. Giving responsibility to the wife will bring forth
good tidings. If a wife is not had, then finding one will bring good fortune.
When the eldest and youngest sons balance their power, then they will be capable
of taking over the household.

3rd – The Motherless Child – The woman stares moon-eyed at gaudy displays of
wealth. Such a woman is irresponsible and not fit to marry. For the sake of the
child, better to turn our seeking in another direction.

4th – The Dreamy Child – He who only looks to the sky, does not see the viper
underfoot. Pay attention!

5th – The Innocent Child – Laughter in the fields; youthful pranks in innocence
can only bring smiles. Tonight, he will sleep well in her bosom.

6th – Treading the Child – Discipline is sometimes required, but discipline
without proper measure and timing can sometimes create enmity in the child and
produce quite opposite of the desired effect. Better to try and prevent the
wrong before it be committed than expend energy on calculating the punishment.

All Six – The Runaway Child – The balance in the home is forgotten. The child
runs to the North and the East. Instead of chasing, we should focus on remedying
our own faults. After we have resolved ourselves, the child will return of his
own accord.



5 – Clouds – Waiting – Clouds rising to Heaven

The wise man understands that most important action is sometimes a non-action.
This is now the case as we wait patiently on our perch and watch as the white
clouds rise from the valley to the zenith of Heaven. There may be danger present
and through the action of calculated inaction, we will wait until this will pass
and thus win the confidence of others. It may also be time to begin planning a
journey or to take time for relaxation.

1st – Clouds on the Outskirts – We stay away from the limelight by setting up
camp on the outskirts of town and focusing on ordinary affairs. We do nothing
extravagant, but rather rest our bones until called back to action.

2nd – Clouds on the Beach – We shall sit by the water and observe what is
happening without getting our feet wet. This apparent inactivity may give rise
to gossip among those with too much time on their hands. However, know that this
gossip is harmless and should be ignored as the wise man will eventually prosper
through patient observation.

3rd – Clouds on the Mud – We have taken too much upon our shoulders and are now
stuck in the mud as danger circles us. If we remain steadfast and trudge
forward, placing one foot in front of the other, then we shall remain free from
harm.

4th – Clouds of Blood – There is slaughter on all sides. Brother turns against
Brother and Father against Son. We should not participate in the deeds of blood,
but rather preserve our power by carefully observing the slaughter and making
plans to optimize on the rebuilding efforts.

5th – Clouds on Feastday – Nothing is to be accomplished today. Better to drink
red wine and dance with our lover. Tomorrow is another day.

6th – Clouds on the Tower – It is difficult to see far. Better to the descend
into the Earth and look inwards. Three mysterious guests will arrive without
invitation. It would be wise to treat them with honor and to receive them as old
friends. They will speak pertinent wisdom without being aware that they give
council.

All Six – Dragons in the Clouds – War! The clouds burst forth and an army of
fierce dragons pour forth to do battle on the plains. We are in the midst of
war. There is no retreat, no negotiation and no surrender. No quarter will be
given. We must fight for our life. Good luck!



6 – Claws – First Blood – Sky and Water in opposition

Dogs will bark while tiger hunch and bare claws. The crowd falls silent to
observe the ensuing conflict. Attempting the middle passage will bring some
recourse, but finality can only be recourse through opposition. It is advised to
take council from a wise elder nearby and not to travel; for this would surly
lead to a watery grave.

1st – Clipping the Claws – Sometimes Karma may only be resolved by carrying the
conflict to the finish. Other times it is better to hold our tongue and to let
things pass. This is one of those times when it is advised to shift our focus
away from the conflict and to let the tension fade away with the passage of
time. By doing so, we accord with the balance of Heaven and Earth. Say Nothing!

2nd – Retracting the Claws – The wise man knows when he is overwhelmed. To
continue to fight will lead to our ultimate demise. Better to place pride in our
pocket, gathering our most loyal followers and make a hasty retreat to the
mountains. There is no shame in continued life.

3rd – Sharpening the Claws – Cultivating our own power may lead to jealously in
others. They may try to attack, but their power is uncultivated and easily put
down. Thus said, it is still not advisable to step into the public sphere, for
there still be much work to be done on the homefront.

4th – Covering the Claws – The conflict cannot be resolved through further
warfare. An offer of peace must be made and accepted if there be hope for either
party.

5th – Barring the Claws – The desert wind rests on our left shoulder. We should
attack immediately and without remorse. Our cause is mandated by Heaven and
victory is assured by the hand that writes the future as if it were the past.

6th – Respecting the Claws – The wise warrior buries his fallen enemy with armor
and sword intact. This is to say that prizes won in battle should be left with
the deceased. To wear a dead mans crown will only bring misfortune.

All Six – Cleaning the Claws – There is a time for action and a time for not.
Better now to take a solitary walk to the river and wash our claws in the sand.
It is strongly advised to rest or take a relaxing journey.



7 – The Army – Attack – Land overtaking Water

Whether we think ourselves businessman, warrior or monk; all life is a battle
and should be treated as such. The army executes the will of its king. Soldiers
are drawn from surrounding villages to be bestowed honor and discipline. Recruit
and Train!

1st – Training the Army – The wise general spends his time teaching the army how
to march properly. For if a man is capable of doing one thing perfectly, then he
is capable of doing all things perfectly. Discipline is the foundation of the
army. A solider following an order without hesitation may be the difference
between victory and death. Without discipline, disaster will strike.

2nd – The General’s Army – The army is only as effective as its general, who is
only effective as his king. The wise man would honor his general three times and
place faith in this subordinate to execute his will properly and at his own
discretion. It would be best not to be a back seat driver.

3rd – Causalities of the Army – The ravens circle; the wagons are laden with
corpses. Our enemy attacked us while we were sleeping. Be on guard for that
which is unseen.

4th – The Army Retreats – Military campaigns are concerned with one thing and
one thing only; Victory. Thus said, only a fool would advance when the wise man
would halt and retreat. Battle should be fought on another day when the odds are
more favorable.

5th – The Army Under Siege – Rabid wolves road the countryside as the army sets
camp and posts sentries. The wise man keeps his thoughts to himself and does not
discuss plans with subordinates. The oldest son should be placed in commands,
while the younger son is a lout and not suitable for any role save carrying the
corpses. We should hold our ground.

6th – The Prince’s Army – He rides forth on a gallant steed. Command should be
given to a kind man whose words inspire sincerity and respect. To allow a man of
harsh words to take the reins will surly lead to disaster.

All Six – The Army Disbands – The rebels have been quelled, the enemy has joined
in alliance. There is no longer a need to retain a large amount of soldiers. We
should send our men home to their families and maintain a small honor guard to
remind the populace of what we are capable.



8 – The Coven – Alliance – Water upon the Land

The coven is a circle for those with troubled hearts. Leaning upon each other
for support allows the many to complete that which was impossible for the one.
We should treat our neighbors as we would like to be treated and consult the
oracle once again for council from the coven.

1st – The Coven of Confidence – The support of our peers allows us the
confidence to face insurmountable odds and to emerge victorious. Good fortune
will arise from unexpected places. The wind is coming.

2nd - The Inner Coven – The family sits down for a meal; the Father presides. We
become closer to those already close to us. We trust in their support, for
strength received from within be true.

3rd – The Twisted Coven – He opens his eyes and realizes the coven is black; a
place from which fear and delusion will spew forth. Some difficult choices must
be made.

4th – Outside the Coven – Melodious music is heard on the other side of town.
The wise man steps outside his immediate circle to seek further assistance.

5th – The Exclusive Coven – The game slips away, not enough hands were present.
By excluding those who wish to join our immediate circle, we presage difficultly
for ourselves. Better to be open and accepting to all people, for their
assistance may soon be required in the most unexpected way.

6th – The Headless Coven – He is lost in the forest, he retraces his steps
seventeen times and then calls for help. A group without a leader is not a
group. The leader brings different minds together and performs the necessary
tasks of administration. Attempts to move forward without this unifying and
practical presence will surly lead to disaster.

All Six – The Coven Transforms – Though the guidance of a wise leader, the coven
evolves from a circle to a triangle. As a triangle, the leadership role is
definite as we begin to focus on more concrete and practical tasks.