Explore the profound meaning of Yin Yang with yinyangring. Learn about the origins, principles, and applications of this ancient Chinese philosophy that emphasizes the balance of opposites. Discover how Yin Yang influences various aspects of life, from Chinese medicine to art and culture. Join us on this enlightening journey to understand the duality and interconnectedness of the universe.
The ancient Chinese had a deep fascination with the mystical and practical dimensions of life, which they organized into a system they referred to as Shushu (术数)—a term encompassing divination, mystical arts, and esoteric techniques. Broadly, they classified these arts into three major categories, each reflecting different aspects of human life and the cosmos. Let’s […]
In Chinese culture, shushu (术数) is a term rich in meaning and history, often misunderstood or oversimplified as mere superstition. To truly grasp its essence, one must explore its philosophical, cultural, and practical dimensions. The Chinese dictionary Cihai defines shushu as follows: “Shu refers to techniques or methods, while shu denotes numbers or cosmic patterns. […]
So, what are the four key elements in The Book of Changes (Zhou Yi)? Well, they are Xiang (象), Shu (数), Li (理), and Gu (古). Let me break it down for you in a way that’ll make sense, even if you’ve never dabbled in ancient Chinese divination (and hopefully, it’ll save you from a […]
To understand Yijing (the I Ching), many experts recommend first reading Yizhuan (the Commentaries on the I Ching). They say that if you want to truly grasp the depth of the I Ching, you should read the Yizhuan multiple times, reflect on it, and then go back to the I Ching with a new perspective. […]
The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, was completed during the Western Zhou Dynasty, more than 3,000 years ago. It was co-authored by four sages: Fuxi, who created the eight trigrams; King Wen, who wrote the hexagram texts; the Duke of Zhou, who wrote the line interpretations; and Confucius, who compiled the […]
The term “Yin Yang San He” (阴阳三合) refers to the harmonious interaction between three fundamental forces: Yin, Yang, and the natural energy of Heaven (Tian). This concept is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy and cosmology, and understanding it requires a broader view of how the universe is perceived in traditional Chinese thought. The phrase “Yin […]
The phrase “重阳必阴” refers to the idea that when the yang energy (often associated with heat, activity, and brightness) reaches its peak, it will inevitably shift toward its opposite—yin energy, which is associated with cold, stillness, and darkness. This concept illustrates a natural cycle of balance between opposing forces. It can be understood through a […]
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of “重阴必阳” (Heavy Yin Must Lead to Yang) plays a crucial role in the balance and transformation between Yin and Yang energies. Yin and Yang are in a constant state of fluctuation, each one rising and falling in turn. The phrase “重阴必阳” refers to the idea that when […]
Yin and Yang are two fundamental attributes of all things, born from the dynamic interplay of motion and stillness that originates in the Tai Chi (Great Ultimate). Everything in the universe is constantly in flux, so within each thing, there lies a principle of change—a principle that mirrors the Tai Chi. In the world of […]
The concept of “Yin-Yang is Qi, and the Five Elements are substance” originates from Zhou Dunyi’s idea of the “Essence of Two and Five, where subtle harmony and divine condensation meet.” Here, “Two” refers to the dual energies of Heaven and Earth, represented by Yin and Yang, while “Five” refers to the Five Elements: Metal, […]