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The basis of the universe is Eternity (muguk) and, at the same time,
the Supreme Ultimate (t'aeguk).

The Supreme Ultimate moves and gives birth to Yang
(the positive and active).
When this movement reaches its peak,
it achieves serenity, which then gives birth to Um
(the quiet and passive).

Yang changes and strikes a harmony,
then gives birth to Water, Metal, Wood, Fire and Earth,
allowing the Five Spirits to play a role one by one and the Four Directions to take their course.

The Five Elements are a kind of Um-yang,
a kind of Supreme Ultimate, and the Supreme Ultimate is, by nature, Eternity.

The Way of Heaven is male, the Way of Earth is female,
and Principle and Vital Energy respond to each other to cause all things to come alive.

All things are brought out again and again,
so change is endless.

--Yi Hwang, Ten Diagrams of the Learning of the Sage (Songhakshipto), 1568