41. The Principle of Oriental Medicine ： Taiji (Supreme Ultimate)

In Eastern cosmology, Wuji (無極) refers to a state in which only energy is gathered, before all things in the universe are born. Taiji (太極) represents the moment when waves (or vibration) are finally born from this Wuji state. In other words, Taiji is the expression of Wuji, the emergence of energy manifesting in harmony, and is regarded as the operator of the universe’s origin. While Wuji is extremely static, Taiji transforms into a dynamic state.

A representative symbol of Taiji is the Taegukgi, the Korean national flag. It is said that the Chinese regret that Korea was the first to adopt the Taiji symbol as its national flag.

The French priest Georgel praised the Korean flag during his visit to Korea in 1974:

“The Korean Taegukgi is a flag toward the universe. It is unique among national flags. It resembles no other flag. It contains the essence of all the world’s philosophies. The Taegukgi is magnificent. It includes symbols representing heaven and earth, four directions, day and night, and the four seasons.”

It is indeed astonishing that a Western priest could so clearly perceive the depth of meaning embedded in our national flag.

The Taegukgi expresses the harmony of yin and yang, embodies heaven and earth, and contains fire and water, the origins of life. It not only explains the harmony of the cosmos but also serves as a symbolic key to understanding the physiological and pathological truths of the human body, the microcosm.

Through deep awakening or slow, profound breathing, we can enter the Wuji realm. In this realm, where ego is entirely absent, thoughts and emotions cease. One can experience profound peace and freedom simply from the sense of existence, enabling true rest and a return to one’s true nature.

Whenever time allows, let us enjoy entering this world of Wuji—a state of no thought, no form, transcendence, awakening, union with our true nature, or unity with the Holy Spirit.

And when we return to this material world—this Taiji state of phenomena—let us strive to help others with a left hand that does not let the right hand know. If we find joy in forgetting our good deeds, physical health, I believe, will naturally follow.

​
Dr. Jin-man Kim, director of Peace Oriental Clinic