Philosophical Understanding & Reflection Through Meanings of 'As Above, So

[진영]

In Korean 국문 번역
https://m.cafe.daum.net/enlightenment-k/dcM5/402?svc=cafeapp

"As Above, So Below"와 "As within, so without"의 의미를 통한 철학적 이해와 자기성찰 - 우리들의 이야기 -

Subject :
Philosophical Understanding and Reflection Through the Meanings of 'As Above, So Below' and 'As Within, So Without

Reference)
https://m.cafe.daum.net/enlightenment-k/dcM5/394?svc=cafeapp

If Understood, It Becomes Simple and Clear, but If Not, It Becomes Long

The content on the above-mentioned site includes two philosophical expressions. This time, I would like to explain only these two in detail.

Understanding Through Comparative Analysis:

"As above, so below" and
"As within, so without."

Both expressions explain the close relationship between the universe and human beings, as well as between the inner and outer worlds. While both deal with the principle of mutual reflection, they emphasize different aspects. Let's compare and analyze them.

1. "As above, so below"

This phrase expresses the correlation between cosmic order and humanity or between the microscopic and macroscopic worlds.
It means:

> "Just as it is above,
So it is below."

In other words, the universe (the macroscopic world) and human beings (the microscopic world) operate under the same principles. The order and laws of the universe also apply to humans and their lives.

From the perspective of the relationship between nature and humanity, this can be understood as:

> "If the world above (the heavens) is in chaos, then humanity below (the earth) may also experience disorder."

From a philosophical viewpoint, this reflects the idea that the microcosm (humans) is a reflection of the macrocosm (the universe).

In particular, this concept can be understood in the context of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu training (including techniques, philosophy, and healing), especially through Vipassana-Acupuncture Practice (Shinchim Practice)—which is often referred to as a microcosm of the universe.

2. "As within, so without"

This phrase describes the relationship between the inner self and the external world. It is commonly found in Eastern philosophy (especially in Buddhism and Confucianism) as well as in Western mystical traditions.

It means:

> "Just as it is within,
So it is without."

This suggests that our inner state (thoughts, emotions, consciousness) is reflected in the outer world (reality, relationships, experiences).

If there is peace within,
→ Peace can also be found outside.


Thus, external reality can be understood as a projection of our inner state.

From a psychological perspective, thoughts and emotions shape reality.

From a spiritual perspective, inner healing and self-transformation influence one's relationship with the world.

In daily life, this implies that happiness is not determined by external conditions but arises from within.


3. Commonalities

1) The Connection Between the Whole and the Part – A Unified Principle

Both phrases emphasize the interaction between the internal and external, the macro and the micro.
They convey the idea that the world is not just a collection of isolated elements but a connected and reflective existence where everything influences everything else.

2) The Necessity of Self-Reflection

Both expressions carry the message that in order to understand and transform the external world (society, reality), one must first turn inward and reflect on their own thoughts, consciousness, and mind.

■ Conclusion

"As above, so below" explains the relationship between the universe and humanity, nature and life, focusing on understanding the world from a macro perspective.

"As within, so without" emphasizes how inner change creates and transforms external reality.

Both expressions share the fundamental essence of "interconnectedness" and a unified principle, suggesting that our lives and the order of the universe can not be separated.

In Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo, practitioners are repeatedly taught from the very beginning to recognize this unified principle—understanding how the body moves naturally based on the flow of energy, why this knowledge is essential, and what effects and outcomes it brings to martial arts training.

Ultimately, this leads to achieving the ultimate goal of life through martial arts training.



Friday, February 28, 2025
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu
Haedong Kumdo
Kim Jeong Seong