Sparrows Point Martial Arts Academy

The words Taegeuk and Palgwe essentially represent the same thing, the universe. They are derived from the Jooyeok, the Book of Changes. In the Book of Changes the universe is divided into eight subsequent combinations derived from the major forces, um and yang (Korean for yin and yang). Each combination is represented by a symbol called a trigram, because it contains three lines. The lines of the

trigram can be broken (um or negative principle) or solid (yang or positive principle).

The eight trigrams are arranged in a circle, around the symbol for um and yang, so that opposite pairs are across from one another. This represents the relationship that the trigrams have for one another, not opposites but, rather "interdependent polarities" that compose the universe.

Taegeuk Il Jang/Palgwe Il Jang
Symbol - Keon

The general meaning of this form and associated trigram is Yang, which represents Heaven and Light. Also, this trigram has a relationship to South and Father. The first Taegeuk form is the beginning of all pumsaes, the "birth" of the martial artist into Taekwondo. This pumsae should be performed with the

Taegeuk E Jang/Palgwe E Jang
Symbol - Tae

The associated trigram of this pumsae represents the Lake. Also, related to the symbol is South East and the relationship of the youngest daughter. The movements of this Taegeuk/Palgwe are aimed to be performed believing that man has limitations, but that we can overcome these limitations. The Lake and its water symbolize the flowing and calm nature of the martial artist. This form is to reflect those attributes.

Taegeuk Sam Jang/Palgwe Sam Jang

Symbol - Ri
This trigram represents Fire. Related to this symbol is also East and the relationship of the Second Daughter. Fire contains a lot of energy. The symbol behind the fire is similar to the symbolism of the water in that both can aid and both can destroy. This form is intended to be performed rhythmically, with some outbursts of energy to reflect fire's rhythmic and energetic dualism.

Taegeuk Sa Jang/Palgwe Sa Jang

Symbol - Jin
This trigram represents Thunder. Also, the trigram is strongly connected to northeast and the relationship of the Eldest son. Thunder comes from the sky and is absorbed by the earth, thus, according to the beliefs of the I Ching, thunder is one of the most powerful natural forces. This pumsae is associated with power and the connection between the heavens and earth. This pumsae is intended to be performed with power resembling the Thunder for which it is named.

Taegeuk O Jang/Palgwe O Jang

Symbol - Seon
The trigram associated with this pumsae represents Wind. The trigram is also related to southwest and the relationship with an eldest daughter. The I Ching promotes that wind is a gentle force, but can sometimes be furious, destroying everything in its path. As such, it is intended that this pumsae is performed like the wind: gently, but knowing the ability of mass destruction with a single movement. The performer and audience should be aware of the duality of the form.

Taegeuk Yuk Jang/Palgwe Yuk Jang

Symbol - Gam
The trigram associated with this pumsae represents Water. Also, there is a relation to West and the relationship with a Second son. The movements of this pumsae are intended to be performed like water; flowing, powerful and cleansing. Sometimes standing still like water in a lake, sometimes thriving as a river, sometimes powerful like a waterfall. The water is to symbolize calm and cleansing, while also possessing the attribute of being violent and destructive.

Taegeuk Chil Jang/Palgwe Chil Jang

Symbol - Gan
The trigram associated with this pumsae represents a Mountain. Also, it represents the northwest and youngest son. The symbolism behind the mountain is the indomitable and majestic nature that all mountains possess. This pumsae is intended to be performed with the feeling that all movements are this majestic due to their unconquerable nature.

Taegeuk Pal Jang/Palgwe Pal Jang

Symbol - Gon
The trigram associated with this pumsae represents the Earth. Also, there is a representation of North and Mother. The associated trigram of this pumsae is Yin. Yin, here, represents the end of the beginning, the evil part of all that is good. This being the last of the pumsae Taegeuk, it represents the end of the circle and the cyclic nature of the Earth.

All together these concepts and symbols represent the balance of all nature. In the training of Taekwondo as well as in life we all hope to find the balance. The poomse carry with them not only the physical movements but also the meaning of Taekwondo.