Providing an analysis of Chinese divination as a means of organizing and interpreting "reality", Richard Smith examines a wide variety of mantic techniques - from the use of the hallowed "Yjing" to such popular practices as siting (geomancy), astrology, numerology, physiognomy, the analysis of written characters, meteorological divination, the use of mediums (including spirit-writing), and dream interpretation. As he explains the pervasiveness and tenacity of divination in China, the author explores not only the connections between various mantic techniques but also the relationship between divination and other facets of Chinese culture, including philosophy, science and medicine. He discusses the symbolism of divination, its aesthetics, its ritual aspects, and its psychological and social significance, pointing out that in traditional China divination helped to order the future, just as history helped to order the past, and rituals the present.
- ISBN10 0813377536
- ISBN13 9780813377537
- Publish Date 17 November 1991
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 25 May 2000
- Publish Country US
- Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
- Imprint Westview Press Inc
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 434
- Language English