Yin Yang Symbol

Concept of Yin and Yang forms the base of Chinese philosophy. The Yin Yang symbol meaning can be presented as the interdependence and interconnectedness of the seemingly contrary/polar forces of nature. This concept is not just limited to the field of philosophy, but also to medicine and martial arts. It is necessary to understand that the opposites referred to in the process of understanding the concept of meaning of Yin Yang are contrary forces, only in relation to each other. The above description also allows to form a Yin Yang symbol definition. There is no standard definition for this concept owing to the vastness behind the idea.

Yin Yang Symbolism

If we take a look at the system called nature, the Yin and Yang symbol in this scenario, stand for the opposite and complementary forces which interact with each other within the whole system. The Yin Yang pictures depict a circular shape divided in two halves by tear-drop shapes. One of the tear-drop shape is black, while other is white in color. White tear-drop shape contains a smaller black circle, while the black one accommodates a white circle.

If we observe the picture of Yin Yang, the tear-drop shapes depict a flow/movement. Meaning of this concept can be derived as follows: Yin and yang, the contrary forces of nature are interdependent and also mutually-arising. These forces also carry out the transformation of one into other. It is not possible for Yin to exist without Yang and vice versa. This concept can be illustrated by the example of day turning into night and the night again transforming back to day.

Variations of the Yin Yang Symbol

The variations of Yin Yang have certain, specific meanings associated with them. Let us understand more about these Chinese symbols.

Yin Yang Lotus Symbol: The significance of holy seat of Buddha is represented by the Yin Yang Lotus symbol. All Buddhists the world over recognize this symbol. Chinese people attribute the qualities of perfection and ultimate purity with this symbol. The nature of lotus, to rise from mud without being tainted gets reflected in the Yin Yang Lotus symbol.

Yin Yang Heart: The balance which need to be maintained in our hearts with respect to the feeling of love is depicted by this symbol. A perfect balance maintained with respect to love works wonders and makes life beautiful. The symbol thus, help us understand more about the important virtue of love in our lives.

Yin Yang Eye: The Yin Yang Eye symbol represents the balance in our vision or focus. This variation of the Yin Yang is represented by a circle in the eye with tear-drop shapes incorporated in the circle. Vision for balance and peace is represented perfectly with this symbol. Along with these variations one would also like to know about Yin Yang tattoos and designs.

History

Origin of Yin Yang symbol can be traced back to an ancient agrarian religion. Importance of this concept can be cited in Taoism, Confucianism and Daoism. The 'oracle bones' have inscriptions of earliest form of Yin Yang. Oracle bones is a term used in reference with turtle carapaces and animal shoulder blades meant for divination in ancient China. The beliefs/philosophy of the ancient agrarian religion of China, revolved around Sun as the central figure. The daylight/day time was associated with working while the night was associated with rest.

Forces of nature that are opposite also complement each other. This idea is common to most of the philosophies of China and can be found in the world as a whole.