Living in the Present: The Grand Map of the Four Symbols and Five Beasts
Philosophical Interpretation in English:
To live fully in the present moment is to embody the unity of heaven, earth, and humanity. This journey reveals the True Self ("Naming the True Self") and inspires one to walk the path of authenticity ("Living the Way of the True Human"). Through this practice, an ordinary person transforms into a Living Sage, achieving a life of wisdom, artistry, and harmony—balancing the highest insight with grounded simplicity.
Structure of the Four Symbols and Five Beasts
The Four Symbols (North Black Tortoise, East Azure Dragon, South Vermilion Bird, West White Tiger) represent the dynamic forces of the universe: directional energy flow, seasonal cycles, and cosmic transformation. The Five Beasts (with the Central Unicorn added to the Four Symbols) reflect humanity’s role as a unifying force, bridging heaven and earth, and embodying the dynamic balance of life.
Through this symbolic map, an individual transcends the limitations of ego and realizes the boundless potential of the Self. The journey leads to the harmonious integration of wisdom, compassion, and action.
First Stage: The Northern Symbol – Black Tortoise
Keywords: Reflection, Awareness, Self-Mastery
The North represents winter and the night, symbolizing introspection and spiritual depth. The Black Tortoise embodies hidden potential and transformation. In this stage, individuals awaken their inner wisdom by confronting their struggles, anxieties, and attachments, transforming challenges into moments of clarity.
Life as Art:
Wisdom begins with self-awareness. By delving into the depths of the mind and heart, one cultivates the stillness necessary to grow, uncovering the seeds of enlightenment.
Second Stage: The Eastern Symbol – Azure Dragon
Keywords: Creativity, Vitality, Aspiration
The East represents spring and the dawn, symbolizing renewal and growth. The Azure Dragon signifies life’s expansive energy and creative force. In this stage, individuals channel newfound clarity into action, striving for excellence and embodying the pursuit of truth, beauty, and virtue.
Life as Art:
The journey of "daily progress" unleashes life’s vibrant energy. Like the Dragon ascending to the heavens, one’s efforts and creativity reflect an unstoppable vitality.
Third Stage: The Southern Symbol – Vermilion Bird
Keywords: Wisdom, Radiance, Compassion
The South represents summer and the midday, symbolizing life’s peak and the emergence of wisdom. The Vermilion Bird represents enlightenment, clarity, and spiritual warmth. In this stage, individuals integrate their understanding with action, spreading light to themselves and others through compassion and insight.
Life as Art:
Living with "wisdom as fire," one becomes a source of illumination, inspiring others to recognize their potential and live meaningfully.
Fourth Stage: The Western Symbol – White Tiger
Keywords: Maturity, Integration, Service
The West represents autumn and the evening, symbolizing introspection and completion. The White Tiger signifies the power of refinement and mastery. In this stage, individuals distill their experiences into wisdom and share their insights with others, fostering a legacy of harmony and understanding.
Life as Art:
Balancing strength with gentleness, individuals at this stage live with calm authority, uplifting others and creating a ripple effect of goodness.
Fifth Stage: The Central Symbol – Unicorn as the One Harmony
Keywords: Balance, Wholeness, Unity
The Center represents the integration of all seasons and times, symbolizing the harmony of the cosmos. The Unicorn embodies the "Middle Way," reflecting both extraordinary insight and humble simplicity. This is the stage where the ordinary individual fully embodies the union of heaven and earth.
Life as Art:
At this stage, one lives seamlessly in the present moment, balancing complexity and simplicity. The individual becomes a living embodiment of wisdom, merging universal energy with personal presence.
The Ultimate Goal: The Living Sage
Through the flow of the Four Symbols and Five Beasts, an ordinary person embarks on a transformative journey:
- Naming the True Self: Recognizing the authentic essence within.
- Walking the Path of the True Human: Translating awareness into meaningful action.
- Unity of Heaven, Earth, and Humanity: Harmonizing insight, compassion, and action in every moment.
This process leads to the attainment of the Living Sage state—a life unshackled by ego or illusions. The Living Sage does not flee the world nor cling to its distractions. Instead, they live authentically, creatively, and harmoniously in every present moment, embodying the cosmic unity of existence.
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