Taoism: Explanation of Yin & Yang
The yin and yang symbol is one of the most popular and recognizable images in the world, but it also carries depths of meaning. Visually, the symbol represents the concept of duality, depicting light and dark aspects. Spiritually, it represents principles at the heart of the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism.
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Design
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The symbol of yin and yang is comprised of two equal aspects, one light and one dark, which together form a circle. Based on principles that are similar to those of an optical illusion, the design of "the yin-yang symbol is a classic example of figure/ground or positive/negative ambiguity," according to Alan Pipes, author of "Foundations of Art and Design." Although the symbol's two aspects divide its circle into two even halves, their forms are not that of semicircles. Rather, they are each droplet-shaped, tapering off at the end. Each aspect of the yin and yang symbol also contains a dot of opposing color. Combined, the forms of these two aspects suggest a state of perpetual motion.
Significance
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Emerging from the Taoist tradition, the symbol of yin and yang represents two fundamental forces of nature, which complement yet oppose each other. Yin, the light aspect of the symbol, represents peace, stability and creativeness. Yang counterbalances yin, representing darker forces of nature, such as confusion, destruction and social discord.
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Context
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Rooted in principles underlying ancient Chinese philosophy, the symbol of yin and yang is a visual representation of the concept of duality. This symbol encapsulates principles underlying the Taoist tradition, predating the Christian era by several centuries. Yin and yang portray a cyclical perspective common to Eastern religious practice, which sharply contrasts with the linear perspective that informs Western thinking.
Considerations
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While the principles of division and duality are portrayed by the opposing aspects of the yin and yang, both aspects are nevertheless united inside a circle, suggesting unity and wholeness. This wholeness rests at the root of the Tao itself, according to Wing-tsit Chan, who writes in "A Source Book in Chinese Philosophy" that "the successive movement of the yin and the yang constitutes the Way (Tao)."
Influence
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The yin and yang symbol is one of the most recognizable in the world, rivaling in visibility such images as the Christian cross. Use of the yin and yang has become increasingly popular in clothing, jewelry and even tattoo art. With regard to tattoos, the opposing aspects of the yin and yang symbol may be represented in various forms, including as two dragons, serpents or koi fish. Yin and yang ranks as one of the 50 most popular tattoos, according to the website Rank My Tattoos, which notes that "yin-yang tattoos are popular among men and women from all walks of life."
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit yin yang balance symbol image by Brent Walker from Fotolia.com
