The Yin-Yang Principles

The art of divination with regard to geomancy is closely related to the harmony of the cosmic breath - yin and yang. The yin and yang are the negative and positive principles of universal life.

" Good life is supposed to be achieved by man where he is in harmony with the flux of yin and yang. The universe too is made up of yin-yang and is represented by wood, fire, earth, gold and water. The balance of these ingredients or elements changes nature or man's fate. The ingredients are closely related to the seasons, directions and colors.

Element	Wood	Fire	Earth	Metal	Water
Direction	East	South	Centre	West	North
Season	Spring	Summer		Autumn	Winter
Color	Green	Red	Yellow	White	Black

 

Yang is bright, masculine, and powerful; yin is dark, feminine and totally absorbent. Both essences appear combined in various portions in all things of man, nature and the world."

W.T De Barry, Chan Wing Tsit and Burton Watson summarize the dual concept as follows:

"This constant reaction of the two forces on the metaphysical and physical planes was used to explain all processes of growth and change in the natural world"

Some writers associate yang with heaven, vigour, the dragon and the azure color. As far as feng shui is concerned, the high or raised ground and mountainous area are yang. Yin is said to represent earth, quiescence, the tiger and the orange color. The lowlands, valley and river bank are yin. The Chinese called the sun tai yang and the moon tai yin. From this the qualities of duality to the Chinese thinkers can be assessed.

 

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