Taoism; I Ching: Book of Changes
"You are the universe and the universe is you." Taoist saying
Ancient Chinese philosophers believed that all manifestations of reality are generated by the dynamic interplay between two polar forces, which they called yin and yang. The Chinese developed their concept of change by observing natural events like the flow of water, the change of day and night, the succession of seasons, and they concluded that change is a constant aspect of existence. One can count on the stability of change. Consequently, in Chinese philosophy activity is a vital feature of the universe. The universe is engaged in a ceaseless motion that the Chinese call "Tao," which means "the way." Since change is natural, its reverse is to go against nature. Hence, the opposite of change is not end of movement, it is rather growth of what ought to decrease; downfall of what ought to rule.
Change is not irrational but has its set course in which the tendencies of events develop. As we expect the sun will rise tomorrow and that spring will follow winter, we can also anticipate that the process of change is not chaotic, but is using fixed courses. Change does not take place due to an outside force. It is natural and innate in everything. Thus, change is not a dictate it is rather an indication, showing the direction one ought to take. A change is therefore natural, but to identify it and follow its course is a free choice. Having a choice means that we can influence change. Yet, successful influence is only possible by going with the direction of change, not against it. Therefore, within limits, we are both masters of our own fate and able to participate in the course of events beyond our own sphere. Nevertheless, one must recognize the limits and remain within them. Book of Changes (I Ching) was written in order to promote such understanding.
Consecutive reading: go to Yin yang forces.
You are on the page Taoism, under the menu headline Yin and yang.
"You are the universe and the universe is you." Taoist saying
Ancient Chinese philosophers believed that all manifestations of reality are generated by the dynamic interplay between two polar forces, which they called yin and yang. The Chinese developed their concept of change by observing natural events like the flow of water, the change of day and night, the succession of seasons, and they concluded that change is a constant aspect of existence. One can count on the stability of change. Consequently, in Chinese philosophy activity is a vital feature of the universe. The universe is engaged in a ceaseless motion that the Chinese call "Tao," which means "the way." Since change is natural, its reverse is to go against nature. Hence, the opposite of change is not end of movement, it is rather growth of what ought to decrease; downfall of what ought to rule.
Change is not irrational but has its set course in which the tendencies of events develop. As we expect the sun will rise tomorrow and that spring will follow winter, we can also anticipate that the process of change is not chaotic, but is using fixed courses. Change does not take place due to an outside force. It is natural and innate in everything. Thus, change is not a dictate it is rather an indication, showing the direction one ought to take. A change is therefore natural, but to identify it and follow its course is a free choice. Having a choice means that we can influence change. Yet, successful influence is only possible by going with the direction of change, not against it. Therefore, within limits, we are both masters of our own fate and able to participate in the course of events beyond our own sphere. Nevertheless, one must recognize the limits and remain within them. Book of Changes (I Ching) was written in order to promote such understanding.
Consecutive reading: go to Yin yang forces.
You are on the page Taoism, under the menu headline Yin and yang.
