The Theory of Primordial Qi: The Cosmic Origin of Life

The Theory of Primordial Qi (Yuanqi Lun) is a cornerstone of ancient Chinese philosophy and medicine, proposing that qi constitutes the fundamental substance from which heaven, earth, and all things arise—a monistic and materialistic framework for understanding cosmic and vital origins. Systematized in the Spring and Autumn period text He Guanzi, it asserts that “life emerges from the gathering of qi, and death follows its dispersal.” Integrated with yin-yang theory, it forms the basis of traditional Chinese medicine, giving rise to applied systems such as visceral qi theory and meridian doctrine. Evolving from the Warring States period through the Song and Ming dynasties, it grew into a pervasive theoretical lens that shaped traditional sciences including medicine, astronomy, and agronomy, offering a holistic paradigm for interpreting nature and human life.