In
Taoist philosophy, there are two opposing forces that govern and
create everything in the universe.
These forces- Yin and Yang- are
dependent upon one another. In this Tai Ji symbol, Yang represents the
light area, ascending towards heaven, while Yin represents the dark
area, descending towards Earth. One cannot exist without the other,
and balance comes from these two forces being in perfect harmony.
The Water Element is represented by the point at the bottom of this symbol, the point of the most Yin. Like Water flowing through rivers and streams, Yin
is soft, receptive and yielding. Like womb and ocean waters, the
dark and mysterious Yin is the source of all life. Like the water we
pour for libation, Yin is a conduit between the present moment and the
history that created it. And as the feminine polarity of cosmic
power, Yin brings form and substance to our intentions.
