Principles of Universal Change: Yin-Yang, Five Elements, and the Earth-Fire Function
- Purpose of Studying Universal Worldview Expansion of Mind: Studying the universal worldview greatly expands our mental framework and helps understand the relationship between the universe and self. Awareness of Existence: Helps realize the purpose of life and reason for being. Understanding Spatiotemporal Changes: Enables comprehension of universal principles of change and the order of time.
- Principles of Yin-Yang and Five Elements Yin-Yang: • Core concept of Eastern philosophy • Symbolizes the duality of all things in the universe • Yin-Yang movement is the Way (道)
Five Elements: • Five fundamental elements composing the universe • Specific principles of transformation • Cyclic structure of Wood-Fire-Earth-Metal-Water (木火土金水)
Role of Earth (土): • Maintains harmony and balance of Yin-Yang • Virtue of harmonization (中和) • Central point of transformation through Earth-Fire function
- Deep Understanding of the Five Elements Complex Meanings: Each element contains meanings beyond its literal definition. Interactions: Elements influence and transform each other. Practical Application: Differences exist between theoretical principles and actual manifestation.
Wood (木): • Directional nature: Quality of upward growth • Manifestation and growth of yang energy
Fire (火): • Dispersive nature: Quality of scattering and expansion • Emission and exhaustion of yang energy
Earth (土): • Harmonizing nature: Quality of balance and mediation • Node in growth process and center of transformation
Metal (金): • Convergent nature: Quality of gathering and condensing • Collection and storage of yang energy
Water (水): • Ultimate goal of transformation • Source and completion of life
- Three-Five Division and Elemental Changes Three-Five Division: Represents three states of change (normal, deficient, excessive) at each elemental stage. Mass Concept: Practical functions relate to mass transformation. Interactive Function: Elements communicate and initiate changes.
- Practice and Enlightenment Importance of Practice: • Accumulation and preservation of yang energy • Mental cultivation and spiritual unity • Efforts toward attaining the Way
State of Enlightenment: • Unity with the universe • Attainment of Earth’s virtue (土德) • Deep understanding of Sangjenim’s Way