Classical element

Many ancient philosophies use a set of archetypal classical elements to explain patterns in nature. The Greek version of these ideas, which dates from pre-Socratic times, persisted throughout the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, deeply influencing European thought and culture; but the concept is far older in the Far East, and was widely disseminated in India and China, where it forms the basis of both Buddhism and Hinduism, particularly in an esoteric context.

Related Topics:
Ancient - Philosophies - Archetypal - Pattern - Nature - Greek - Middle Ages - Renaissance - European - Thought - Culture - India - China - Buddhism - Hinduism - Esoteric

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The modern scientific periodic table of the elements and the understanding of combustion (fire) can be considered successors to such early models.

Related Topics:
Periodic table - Elements - Combustion

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