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Description
This paper is a comparative examination of the aphorisms found within the Sayings of Jesus and the Hexagrams of the Yijing. The history of the aphorism and its evolution through time is studied through the themes of aphorisms worldwide. The various stages of development are examined in order to provide an understanding of the aphorism and its place in literature today. The literary format of the aphoristic saying is considered through its history and literary example. It is explored through the maxim, proverb, apothegm, epigram, priamel, and gnome. The aphorism is used through verbal folklore, the study of ancient writings, phraseology, and linguistics. It reflects the cultural history of its source, yet shares the common truths found in all societies throughout time. This study views the aphorism through such writings as The Analects of Confucius, The Art and Thought of Heraclitus, the Collection of Adages of Desiderius Erasmus, and the Maxims of Francois de La Rochefoucauld. The aphorism is an integral part of almost all religious writing. Proverbs and wisdom texts contain the advice and guidance that people need to live a good life. This thesis analyzes and compares five examples of Jesus' Sayings and five Hexagrams from the Yijing. The themes of wisdom, humility, self-cultivation, and the knowledge found in nature are examples of the similar teachings explored in this study. Both books provide the instructions for finding happiness and success. The Jesus' Sayings are taken from the logia found within the Synoptic Gospels, the sayings source of Q, and the Gospel of Thomas. Parallel sayings are compared, thus allowing a better understanding of Jesus' messages. Aphorisms are the heart of Jesus' parabolic teachings, and are the oldest source of his original ministry. A brief traditional and modernist history of the Yijing is then provided. The aphorism is the core of the Yijing's wisdom, and its role in the hexagram is examined. The sayings in the Hexagrams are examples of early Chinese philosophy. They teach inner truth, contentment, and are a guide for proper behavior in the world. Aphorisms contain the collected wisdom found in the observation and experience of life. The Sayings of Jesus and the Yijing share these aphoristic teachings and prescribe the life lessons. This study of aphorisms advices the argument that the Jesus' sayings and the aphorisms of the Yijing share similar teachings and literary devices. They both contain the inherent wisdom found within human nature. These aphorisms hold the answers for those searching for life's blessings, wisdom, and the path to the good life.
