Core Concepts of Eastern Philosophy: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism

The Four Passing Sights

These four observations profoundly influenced Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) and led him to renounce his princely life:

1. An Old Man: Weak and frail, symbolizing the inevitability of aging.
2. A Sick Man: Representing disease and suffering.
3. A Corpse on a Funeral Pyre: This sight was a shock, awakening him to the realization that life is not a continuous event and death is certain.
4. A Holy Man (Ascetic): This fourth sight first awakened him to other possibilities and the potential for an escape from suffering.

Li

A key concept in Confucianism, often translated as propriety, ritual, or correct conduct.

Ch’i (Qi)

Vital energy flowing through matter and movement. This energy is intrinsically linked to the universe.

Skanda (Hindu God of War)

The Hindu god of war, often described as the firstborn son of Shiva. The many legends detailing the circumstances of his birth are often at variance with one another.

Te (De)

Often translated as "power" or "virtue," signifying inherent moral authority or influence, particularly in Taoism and Confucianism.

Dukkha

An important Buddhist concept, commonly translated as:

• Suffering
• Pain
• Unsatisfactoriness
• Stress

Nirvana

The highest spiritual state attainable in Hinduism and Buddhism, characterized by perfect peace, happiness, and enlightenment. It represents the cessation of suffering.

Confucius and Confucianism

Confucius was the influential Chinese philosopher whose teachings form the basis of Confucianism.

A Confucian is a person who adheres to these teachings. The adjective Confucian describes an idea similar to those teachings (e.g., respecting one's elders is a Confucian ideal).

Satori

A Japanese Buddhist term, particularly in Zen, meaning spiritual awakening, comprehension, or understanding.

Yin and Yang

In ancient Chinese philosophy, Yin and Yang is a concept of dualism describing how seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent.

Theravada Buddhism

The name Theravada, meaning “Teachings of the Elders,” is based on the early teachings found in the Pali Canon. The primary goal of Theravada practice is to lead the practitioner to become an Arhat (a perfected person who has attained Nirvana).

The Tao

The Tao (or Way) is often described in terms of elements of nature, particularly as similar to water. In Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, and Confucianism, the object of spiritual practice is to 'become one with the Tao.'

Koan

A riddle or puzzle used by Zen Buddhists during meditation to help unravel greater truths about the world and the self. Koans are often used to test the student's progress toward awakening.