qi energy chinese philosophy

Definition & Meaning

Key Takeaway: Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process.

Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process. Its meaning changes across philosophical and medical traditions; it is not a settled scientific synonym for energy.

Within the Chinese philosophical tradition, as recorded in the classical texts that have shaped East Asian thought for millennia, Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process.

— Oriens
2 related wisdom cards
0 related guides
19 questions about Qi

Related Wisdom Cards

Frequently Asked Questions

qi energy chinese philosophy

Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process..

what is qi in chinese philosophy

Its meaning changes across philosophical and medical traditions; it is not a settled scientific synonym for energy..

tao te ching chapter 76 alive and soft, dead and rigid meaning

Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process..

tao te ching chapter 6 the valley spirit never dies meaning

Its meaning changes across philosophical and medical traditions; it is not a settled scientific synonym for energy..

气 definition

Qi (气, qì) is a context-dependent term in Chinese thought, discussed through ideas such as breath, air, material force, and dynamic process..

Read the Qi overview

Further Reading