Yin And Yang
- Ancient Chinese belief in two cosmic forces: YIN and YANG
- Yin is the feminine, creating and associated with cold
- Yang is the masculine, illuminating and symbolizing fire
- Yin-yang concept prevalent in Chinese thought and Taoism
- Visualized by a circular symbol depicting black and white swirls
- Varied origins debated by scholars, including mountain slopes and deities
- Mythological tale of YING LONG battling CHIYOU for the YELLOW EMPEROR
- Ying Long absorbs water as a weapon, leading to victory
- Alternate version sees Ying Long defeating Chiyou and KUAFU
- YINGZHOU synonymous with PENG LAI in Chinese mythology
Exploring the Harmony of Cosmic Forces in Chinese Beliefs
Ancient Chinese Beliefs on Cosmic Forces
According to traditional Chinese beliefs, the universe is governed by two opposing forces, forming the fundamental basis for everything. YIN represents the feminine aspect, while YANG embodies the masculine. Yin is associated with cold, while yang symbolizes fire. In this worldview, yin is the creator, and yang is the illuminator. The concept of yin and yang is deeply ingrained in Chinese thought, influencing everything from folk beliefs to the philosophy of TAOISM. This enduring idea, asserting that all of nature consists of two essential and interconnected components, continues to hold significance worldwide.
Symbolism of Yin and Yang
The yin-yang concept is often visually represented by a circular symbol divided into two opposing swirls—one black and one white. This symbol serves as a visual metaphor for the duality inherent in nature, illustrating the interdependence of opposites.
Varied Origins of Yin and Yang
Scholars offer different perspectives on the origins of yin and yang. Some propose that these concepts originally referred to the slopes of a mountain, one facing away and the other toward the SUN. Alternatively, others posit that in ancient China, yang was initially a SKY GOD, and yin was an EARTH god.
Mythological Tale of Ying Long
YING LONG, also known as the RESPONDING DRAGON or YINGLUNG, is a mythical warrior featured in Chinese mythology. According to mythologists, he resides in the wilderness of the Northwest. In one myth, Ying Long, along with his daughter, the DROUGHT FURY, engages in battle against the god of war, CHIYOU, at the behest of the YELLOW EMPEROR, Huang Di. Ying Long absorbs the water released by Chiyou's minions as a weapon, enabling Huang Di to emerge victorious. In an alternate version, Ying Long defeats both Chiyou and KUAFU but sustains injuries preventing his return to the sky, resulting in frequent droughts plaguing the land.
Yingzhou and Its Association with Peng Lai
YINGZHOU is synonymous with PENG LAI in Chinese mythology.