The Symbolism and Meaning of Light in ShinsungHwa
The Symbols of Spiritual Light and the Symbols of the Five Directions(Elements) Light
ShinsungHwa often expresses the symbolism of light in two main ways. While these lights share the same essence, the way they work and the perspective from which they are viewed are different. Here, I will explain these subtle differences as simply as possible so that anyone can understand them.
The Symbolism of Light in the Eight Directions (The Axis of Operation, Eight Directions)
- The Cross and the Diagonal Cross: Eight Directions
One of the most common symbols is a combination of a cross (+) made by vertical and horizontal lines, and another cross (×) tilted at a 45-degree angle. Together, these lines point in eight different directions. This design is connected to the concept of the “Eight Trigrams” from East Asian philosophy, which represent eight fundamental directions and forces of the universe. In “Hwero”, this symbol stands for cosmic order and spiritual centrality. - The Fundamental Force Behind the Universe
These eight lines are also called the “axis of operation” or simply “operation.” In ShinsungHwa, they represent the spreading of spiritual light—the expansion of cosmic radiance. The reason is that light is seen as the fundamental force that keeps the universe running. - The Meaning of Light
The cross with eight directions is more than just a symbol of space and direction. It represents the creation and circulation of everything in the universe, the unity of humanity and the cosmos (a concept similar to “*Innaechon,” meaning “human is one with heaven”), and even ideas like the “Eightfold Path.” In short, all existence is within the order of light radiating from the center (heaven, or Hanul). This light stands for spiritual awakening, creativity, and the harmony and unity of the universe.
*Innaechon means “a person is Hanul.” In this philosophy, every person is born and lives with the principles and energy of Hanul (the cosmic source). The formless Hanul takes shape as human beings, so Hanul and people are not two separate things, but one.
"Obang (五方) means ‘five directions’ and symbolizes ‘the light of the five elements.'”The Symbolism of Light in the Five Directions (The Five Elements)
- Five Lines
Another important symbol is made up of five lines, each pointing in a different direction. This relates to the “Five Elements” (called “Ohaeng” in Korean)—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements are seen as five fundamental forces or building blocks of the universe. Their interactions and cycles explain the order of the world, nature, and human life in East Asian thought. - The Relationship Between the Five Elements and Light
The Five Elements are not just physical substances; they are also seen as five different ways that cosmic energy, or light, can flow and change. In traditional East Asian philosophy, each element resonates with a particular color (or type of light) and is linked to the harmony of nature and the flow of energy in the human body. For example, Wood is green, Fire is red, Earth is yellow, Metal is white, and Water is black. - The Five Streams of Light
The structure of five lines symbolizes the five streams of light connecting and balancing each other. This stands for the cosmic principle of harmony and balance. In other words, the Five Elements explain how all things are created, transformed, and circulate, both spiritually and physically, through the energy of light.
The Difference Between Eight-Directional Light and Five-Directional (Five Elements) Light
Eight-directional light and five-directional (Five Elements) light both represent the order of the universe and all things, but they differ significantly in how they view the cosmos.
| Category | Light of Eight Directions | Light of Five Directions (Five Elements) |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 8 directions (cross + 45° cross) | 5 directions |
| Symbolism | Infinite expansion, unity | Change, cycles, harmony |
| Philosophical Meaning | Cosmic origin, radiance, unity | Creation, transformation, balance |
| Application | All directions, spiritual center | Order of nature, humanity, and the cosmos |
The light of eight directions is like sunlight that shines out from the center in every direction, connecting everything in the universe. It shows how everything is linked together and comes from one source.
The light of five directions is like five different streams of energy—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—that flow and change, helping the world grow and stay balanced. Each stream has its own path and character, but together they keep nature and people in harmony.
In summary, the light of eight directions focuses on unity and infinite connection, while the light of five directions highlights diversity, change, and balance in the world. Both ideas help explain how the universe works and how everything is connected.
