September 06, 2010

Yin 陰) and Yang (陽): The Basics

The concept of, and the relationship between yin ( 陰) and yang (陽) lie at the heart of Chinese language, art, science, philosophy, religion, medicine, and culture.  I think it is safe to say that there is no shortage of books, artcles etc. on the topic of Yin and Yang mostly written by persons more studied than I.  However, I offer the following observations for what they are worth.
  • 陰 and 陽 are a "mutally inclusive" pair - they do not exist independently of each other; 
  • 陰 and 陽 are relative - the strength/weaknesses of one is defined only in relation to the other;
  • 陰 and 陽 are balanced - they are not equal.  Balance is natural, and it permits movement/change;
  • 陰 and 陽 are dynamic - their relationship and their nature as a combined pair is constantly changing.

No comments:

Post a Comment