Taoism Symbol Explained: The Yin Yang Meaning
Paul PengThe symbol of Taoism is the Taiji and Bagua diagram.
Taiji Diagram
The most recognizable part is the "Yin-Yang Fish," featuring black and white sections. The white section (Yang) has a black dot, and the black section (Yin) has a white dot, showing the interdependence of Yin and Yang.
Bagua Diagram
From the I Ching, the Bagua consists of eight trigrams: Qian, Kun, Zhen, Xun, Kan, Li, Gen, and Dui. These represent natural forces like heaven, earth, thunder, wind, water, fire, mountains, and lakes, and are used to understand changes in nature and society. Kun and Qian are especially important as they symbolize the fundamental creative forces of the universe.
Combined, the Taiji and Bagua form the Taiji Bagua diagram, a key Taoist symbol. It represents the laws governing all things in the universe and is believed to have the power to repel evil.
Part of the Series
This article is part of our comprehensive guide covering all core Taoist philosophies, concepts, and practices — curated from the classic Encyclopedia of Taoism.
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