The Bagua (Eight Trigrams) consists of eight symbols, each made up of three lines that can either be solid (representing Yang) or broken (representing Yin). Each trigram symbolizes different forces or principles in nature. The arrangement of these lines forms distinct trigram symbols. Here are the eight basic symbols of the Bagua, explained in terms of their line configuration and meaning:
1. Qian (☰) - Heaven
Line Configuration: Three solid lines (Yang)
Meaning: Represents creativity, strength, and power. It is associated with the sky or the heavens and embodies the force of creation.
2. Kun (☷) - Earth
Line Configuration: Three broken lines (Yin)
Meaning: Represents receptivity, nurturing, and support. It symbolizes the earth and is associated with qualities of yielding and adaptability.
3. Zhen (☳) - Thunder
Line Configuration: Solid line, broken line, solid line (Yang, Yin, Yang)
Meaning: Represents movement, action, and vitality. It symbolizes the power and force of thunder and is often associated with a sudden, impactful event.
4. Xun (☴) - Wind/Wood
Line Configuration: Broken line, solid line, broken line (Yin, Yang, Yin)
Meaning: Represents flexibility, change, and communication. It is associated with the wind, which moves swiftly and can change direction, as well as the growth of wood.
5. Kan (☵) - Water
Line Configuration: Solid line, broken line, solid line (Yang, Yin, Yang)
Meaning: Represents danger, depth, and mystery. It symbolizes water and can be interpreted as the flow of energy or the hidden dangers and potential in the environment.
6. Li (☲) - Fire
Line Configuration: Broken line, solid line, broken line (Yin, Yang, Yin)
Meaning: Represents light, passion, and clarity. It symbolizes fire, illuminating and offering insight, but also has the potential for destructive energy.
7. Gen (☶) - Mountain
Line Configuration: Solid line, solid line, broken line (Yang, Yang, Yin)
Meaning: Represents stillness, stability, and endurance. It symbolizes a mountain, suggesting a firm foundation or the need for patience and meditation.
8. Dui (☱) - Lake
Line Configuration: Broken line, solid line, solid line (Yin, Yang, Yang)
Meaning: Represents joy, satisfaction, and harmony. It symbolizes a lake or marsh, reflecting peace and tranquility, but also the potential for interaction and emotional flow.