Wuxing (Chinese philosophy)

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Wuxing (Chinese: 五行; pinyin: Wǔ Xíng), often translated as "Five Elements" or "Five Phases", is a fivefold conceptual scheme that many traditional Chinese fields use to explain a wide array of phenomena, from cosmic cycles to the interaction between internal organs, and from the succession of political regimes to the properties of medicinal drugs. The "Five Elements" are Wood (木 mù), Fire (火 huǒ), Earth (土 tǔ), Metal (金 jīn), and Water (水 shuǐ). This system was used for describing interactions and relationships between phenomena. After the cosmology of the Yin and yang, it is the second most fundamental concept in Chinese thought.

History and Development

The concept of Wuxing originated in the 10th century BC during the early Zhou Dynasty. It played a significant role in the development of Chinese medicine, Feng Shui, astrology, and Taoism. The Wuxing is deeply woven into the fabric of Chinese culture, influencing various aspects of life and thought.

Philosophical Significance

In Chinese philosophy, the Wuxing is more than just five physical elements. It represents five qualities or processes that are believed to be fundamental aspects of the universe. Each element is seen as transforming into another in an endless cycle of change, known as the "productive cycle". Conversely, there is also a "destructive" or "conquering" cycle, where each element can overcome and be overcome by another.

Interactions and Cycles

The interactions between the Wuxing elements are of two main types: the generating or productive cycle (木生火、火生土、土生金、金生水、水生木) where wood feeds fire, fire creates earth (ash), earth bears metal, metal collects water, and water nourishes wood; and the overcoming or destructive cycle (木剋土、土剋水、水剋火、火剋金、金剋木) where wood parts earth, earth absorbs water, water quenches fire, fire melts metal, and metal chops wood.

Applications

1. 1. 1. Chinese Medicine###

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Wuxing theory is used to explain the functioning of the body and to diagnose and treat diseases. Each element is associated with specific organs, emotions, and physical states. TCM practitioners use the relationships between the elements to understand the balance or imbalance within the body.

1. 1. 1. Feng Shui###

Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of arranging living spaces, also uses the Wuxing concept to analyze and influence the flow of energy, or Qi, in an environment. This is done to promote harmony and balance, health, and prosperity.

1. 1. 1. Astrology###

In Chinese astrology, the Wuxing elements are associated with the planets, and their interactions are considered when analyzing a person's destiny or fortune.

Influence

The influence of the Wuxing extends beyond China, impacting various cultures across Asia. Its principles can be found in Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese traditions, among others, where it has been adapted to local beliefs and practices.

See Also

• Yin and yang
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Feng Shui
• Chinese astrology