Interpretative Modes of Yin-Yang Dynamics as an Asian Hermeneutics

Abstract

This study attempts to explore and exemplify several hermeneutical modes of biblical interpretation in light of Asian philosophical systems, especially the concept of the dynamic relationship between yin and yang . By applying some key aspects of the yin-yang dynamics and by utilizing relevant biblical cases, the writer aims to suggest the productivity of reading the biblical texts in dialogue with Asian stories, traditions, and worldviews. The study delineates four major aspects of the yin-yang concepts: (1) duality and plurality, (2) both-and in contradiction and paradox, (3) reciprocity and change, and (4) harmony and balance. Each aspect is defined from various ancient Chinese philosophical resources. The one prominent feature of yin-yang dynamics is the idea of duality and plurality, in that one source has two aspects and those bipolar entities together construct a multi-dimensional whole. Within this complex structure, the opposite components exist together in a "both-and" mutuality rather than "either-or" reduction. In265.p65 stead of repelling against or reducing to one, the two contradictory ideas are often placed together in a dynamic correlation. This dynamic correlation is not static but fluid, constantly changing and flowing within the mutual reciprocity. Two opposite entities not only stand side-by-side but also coerce, challenge, and correct each other in a constant mutual interaction. This mutual interaction does not occur at a random accident but rather for the dynamic retrieval, retaining, and return to the centrality of balance. After defining each of these aspects, selected biblical exemplifications are discussed, in order to present a case that there are many parallel—both similar and opposite—ideas, traditions, and worldviews between the biblical texts and the yin-yang concepts. The biblical exemplifications mainly focus on Genesis 1 and 2, though cases from some other places are also discussed. Several prospects for the possible potentialities and limitations of utilizing this yin-yang dynamics are suggested at the conclusion.

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“…This mutual interaction does not occur at a random accident but rather for the dynamic retrieval, retaining, and return to the centrality of balance. (Kim, 2001, pp. 307–308)…”

Church as Sacrament of Yin-yang Harmony: Toward a More Incisive Participation of Laity and Women in the Church

“…It likewise opens up other possibilities for the production of a creative and fruitful theology by women and the laity based on yinyang harmony. 95 The yin-yang metaphor has been used as a way of reading Scriptures, 96 and in understanding the Trinity and the relationship of the nature of Christ and his person. 97 Through the cultural lens of Qi, Christian pneumatology can rediscover its cosmic-natural dimensions.…”

The paradoxes of knowledge management: An eastern philosophical perspective

“…They contribute to and complement each other. Everything is the product of two opposing forces, yin and yang, which are the polar manifestations of the Tao -that is, the ''way,'' or the natural, ideal state of being (Kim, 2001). Thus, the paradoxical view involves dual entities (e.g., cold and hot, night and day, water and fire) in understanding the universe.…”

“…In other words, we can express and understand things not in terms of one exclusive of the other, but in the dynamic combination of those dual entities of opposition and contradiction: the bipolar entities exist in the form of both yin and yang (Kim, 2001). One coexists with the other.…”

“…Therefore, emphasizing one is counterproductive. Harmony between yin and yang means health, and disharmony or undue preponderance of one brings disease and death (Kim, 2001). The balance would not always be exact, but rather it would be in a state of constant change, based on both the internal and external environment.…”