The ying yang has been an extremely popular symbol for a very long time. It is extremely common as a source of inspiration, understanding, and meaning. But, what does it mean? Where does it come from? This symbol is far more than a fashionable tattoo. Explore some of the history and meaning behind this.
Despite its popularity, few understand its meaning. There is, in fact, massive amounts of history behind this symbol that is an extremely popular facet of fashion, and is often tattooed onto the body. However, its symbolism is much deeper than the popular concept of its meaning, that of good versus evil.
You will find numerous variations of the symbol, as it is the subject of many artistic expressions. However, almost all adhere to the basic structure. This basic structure consists of a large circle. That circle is then halved in the shape of a tear drop, each taking up equal space in the circle. Inside these tear drop shapes, you will find a smaller circle. Each of these smaller circles shows the color of the opposite half.
This symbol originated in China, but has been adopted as an ideal philosophical approach to life by many cultures. You will find many uses of this concept throughout history, with written records dating back to the Yin dynasty of China, around 1400-1100 BC. Records also exist from the Western Zhou Dynasty between 1100-771 BC.
The concepts of yin and yang are deep in philosophy and tradition. It is also called the Taiji symbol, and is an extremely important part of the Taoist philosophy. Taoism is somewhat similar to Confucianism. This philosophy focuses on mankind’s relationship with nature and a cyclical view of time and the universe.
The yin yang symbol itself has a very interesting meaning. In Taoist cosmology, the symbol represents Tao, which is an expression of the belief that polar opposites are in fact inseparable and interconnected. There are many facets of life that are thought to relate to this idea, including good and evil, darkness and light, as well as male and female.
Unfortunately, for all its popularity, few people actually have a clear view of its true meaning. It is an interesting part of Chinese philosophy which has incorporated itself into various areas and cultures. Perhaps, we all have something to learn from these ideas of not only the duality in aspects of life, but the duality we all find in ourselves.
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