Eastern Philosophy Vocabulary

cosmic law, moral duty, or righteous path

“Following one's dharma means fulfilling one's purpose in life.”

the principle that actions have consequences across lifetimes

“Karma links present circumstances to past actions.”

the cycle of death and rebirth

“Liberation means escaping the wheel of samsara.”

the extinction of desire and liberation from suffering

“The Buddha achieved nirvana under the Bodhi tree.”

the fundamental, nameless way of the universe

“The Tao that can be spoken is not the eternal Tao.”

effortless action in harmony with natural flow

“Wu-wei is acting without forcing or striving.”

complementary opposites that form a dynamic whole

“Yin-yang represents the interdependence of all dualities.”

direct insight into one's true nature through meditation

“Zen emphasizes practice over scriptural study.”

one's reason for being or sense of life purpose

“Finding ikigai brings deep satisfaction and meaning.”

the state of no-mind or empty awareness in action

“The swordsman acts from mushin, without hesitation.”