What is Space and Time in Taoism? 道教中宇宙的含义
Paul PengWhat is Space and Time in Taoism?
Yu refers to space, and Zhou to time.
Huainanzi·Treatise on Uniform Customs states: "The four directions, above and below, are called Yu; the past, present and future are called Zhou."
Mozi·Canon I says: "Yu embraces all distinct places." It means extending to all corners of existence.
What is Space and Time in Taoism?
In China, Yu and Zhou have been referred to together as the cosmos since ancient times, reflecting the ancient sages' understanding of the intrinsic connection between space and time. The Dao and Taoist religion regard the cosmos as the totality of heaven, earth, humans and all things—namely, the entire natural world. Huangdi Yinfujing (The Yellow Emperor's Hidden Talisman Classic) proclaims: "The cosmos lies in one's hand; all transformations arise from one's body", which embodies the Taoist thought of the unity of heaven and man and seizing the power of nature's creation through human effort, a core concept rooted in Yin and Yang and the operation of Qi in all things.
