NO.8 Reading · ZhongDaoTaiChi & QiGong & TCM

NO.8 Reading

The Buddhist definition of "consciousness." (PIN YIN“YI SHI”)

Buddhism holds that "mind"(YI) and "consciousness"(SHI) have distinct meanings: "mind"(YI) refers to the human “think” state; "consciousness"(SHI) refers to the ability to discern, differentiate, and comprehend things. Both mind and consciousness are functions of the heart-mind, reflecting the workings of mental states. Although heart-mind, mind, and consciousness differ, they are ultimately one. When combined, mind and consciousness form the specific term "consciousness."

In Daoism, there is no exact equivalent for the term "consciousness." Related concepts include the primordial spirit (YUAN SHEN), the conscious spirit (SHI SHEN), and true intent (ZHEN YI), which are elaborated below.

1. "Primordial Spirit 元神（YUAN SHEN): What is the primordial spirit? It is when internal thoughts do not emerge, external thoughts do not intrude, and one remains in sovereign clarity—this is called the primordial spirit." "The primordial spirit exists in a state of neither movement nor stillness, yet is vividly alive. It is innate, and all mental activities are grounded in it."

Let’s pause here for now. Please reflect carefully on the Daoist concept of the primordial spirit, which closely resembles the nature and state of the "true self"——YI YUAN TI 意元体as discussed in ZHI NENG science...

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