Philosophy of Balancing Between Contrasting Forces (A Study of Greek, Hindu, and Chinese Myths)

Abstract

The philosophy of balancing contrasting forces is a recurring theme in mythological narratives and philosophical systems across various cultures. This study explores how Greek, Hindu, and Chinese traditions conceptualize and symbolize the equilibrium between opposing elements, shedding light on a shared human understanding of duality and harmony. Greek mythology presents the dichotomy between Apollonian and Dionysian forces, Hindu mythology embodies the balance through the figure of Lord Shiva, and Chinese philosophy encapsulates it in the Yin-Yang principle. Each tradition offers unique insights into the interplay of order and chaos, creation and destruction, and passivity and activity. This study aims to analyze the conceptual frameworks of balancing contrasting forces, compare and contrast the thematic expressions of duality in the narratives of these three cultural traditions, and identify universal principles and unique cultural expressions of balance as depicted in these mythologies. Employing a qualitative comparative analysis methodology, the research involves systematic collection, interpretation, and comparison of textual data from primary and secondary sources within these mythological traditions. Textual analysis, thematic coding, and comparative synthesis are utilized to uncover both universal principles and unique cultural expressions. Thematic similarities include interdependence and balance, cyclical nature of existence, and integration of opposites across the three traditions. Findings reveal thematic similarities across the traditions, including the interdependence and cyclical nature of existence and the integration of opposites. Additionally, the research highlights cultural distinctions in symbolic representations, practices, and philosophical interpretations. This comprehensive comparative analysis provides a deeper understanding of global philosophical perspectives on duality and harmony, emphasizing the shared human endeavor to achieve balance in life.