#144: "Sometimes it feels like I don't know..."
I've been re-reading some of Pema Chödrön's book, When Things Fall Apart, and so much is still so relevant in today's chaotic and...
THE OXHERD BOY
A Philosophical Webcomic
Combining Chinese painting with Eastern philosophy into a few lovable characters, "The Oxherd Boy" is a digital comic that invites you to join heartfelt chats about life, death, and everything in between.
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THREE HARMONIOUS TEACHINGS
THREE (NOT ALWAYS) HARMONIOUS CHARACTERS
"Three Harmonious Teachings" or 三教合一 (sān jiào hé yī ) is the foundation of classical Chinese education. We learn to understand and apply the merits of or even combine philosophies from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism to our daily lives. The goal is to develop peaceful relationships with nature, with society, and with ourselves.
However, that doesn't mean disagreement doesn't take place. Part of the art of applying the Three Teachings is debating and deciding which wisdom to apply to each situation. Conflicts do arise, but it is part of the process to surface the wisest solutions.
THE OX
Buddhism
The ox is a strong and simple character whose outlook in life primarily reflects Buddhist law that everyone shares the same experience of suffering of impermanence and therefore, is capable of compassion.
THE BOY
Taoism
The boy is an innocent, harmonious character who looks at the world from a perspective of duality and balance that underscores Taoist teachings.
THE RABBIT
Confucianism
The rabbit is a sophisticated and erudite character who is concerned not with the spirit, but rather with how we treat and look after each other, as supported by Confucian thought.
BOOKS IN PROGRESS
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THE OXHERD BOY book is slated to release spring 2024! Sign up for a member account and join my insider circle to follow adaptation updates and publication news.
ABOUT THE CREATOR
I'm Regina Linke, a Taiwanese American author and illustrator based in Taipei who focuses on Chinese, meticulous-style brush painting on stretched silk and rice paper. My subjects include historical and legendary Chinese characters and motifs out of East Asian philosophy, religion, and folklore.