Cosmological Construction and Rational Essence of the Original Functions of the *Book of Changes* Based on Divination Tracing
This article traces the origins of the *I Ching*, arguing from oracle bone inscriptions of the character "shi" (筮) that its original function was not divination. It contrasts divination and *shi* to reveal the essential nature of early *Yi* studies as employing mathematical modeling to understand cosmic operations and perceive patterns of change, rooted in the philosophical wisdom of ancient peoples for comprehending nature and grounding existence rather than merely predicting fortune.
Section 6.2: The Zhouyi as the Core of Ancient "General Education"
If we synthesize the descriptions of the functions of the Yi in pre-Qin literature, we find a clear picture: The Yi was a core subject in the aristocratic education system of the pre-Qin period, and its function extended far beyond divination.
"Pure, tranquil, subtle, and minute—this is the teaching of the Yi" (洁静精微，《易》教也)—this is its educational function. "In speech, the emphasis is on the words" (以言者尚其辞)—this is training in rhetoric and expression. "In action, the emphasis is on change" (以动者尚其变)—this is guidance for decision-making and action. "In making artifacts, the emphasis is on images" (以制器者尚其象)—this is inspiration for technological creation. "In divination, the emphasis is on prognostication" (以卜筮者尚其占)—this is the application of divination and prediction.
Among the four functions, divination accounts for only one, and is listed last. The first three functions—rhetoric, decision-making, and creation—are unrelated to divination; they point towards a comprehensive cultivation of character and wisdom training.
The Xici Zhuan states:
"The Yi, it is through this that the sage deeply probes and minutely examines. Because it is deep, it can connect with the aspirations of all under Heaven. Because it is minute, it can complete the tasks of all under Heaven. Because it is spiritual, it is swift without haste, arrives without moving." (夫《易》，圣人之所以极深而研几也。唯深也，故能通天下之志。唯几也，故能成天下之务。唯神也，故不疾而速，不行而至。)
"Deeply probes and minutely examines" (极深而研几)—to probe the deepest parts of things, to examine the subtlest signs of change. What kind of ability is this$44 It is penetration—a keen wisdom that can see the deep principles through surface phenomena, and perceive the slightest hint of change before it becomes significant.
Does cultivating this ability require divination$45 No. What is required is long-term observational training, in-depth thinking training, and keen perceptual training. This is completely consistent with Confucius's spirit of "devoting fifty years to the study of the Yi"—studying the Yi is a cultivation of the mind, not an operational technique.