Pole

Across philosophical traditions, the notion of “pole” can refer to a fundamental principle, an extreme point, or a central axis. The terms vary widely based on the specific cultural context and the nuance of the intended meaning.

East Asian Philosophy

Taiji (太極 - Supreme Polarity/Ultimate Polarity): A key concept in Neo-Confucian and Taoist philosophy that describes the “great polarity” from which all existence, with its opposing but complementary features (Yin and Yang), arises. It is often described as the limit or the turning point of the world.
Wuji (無極 - Non-polar/Without Limit): Metaphysically precedes the Taiji in Taoist thought, representing the limitless void or ultimate potential before the differentiation into movement and quiescence, or before the emergence of polarity itself.
Yin and Yang (陰陽): The two complementary and opposing principles (poles) that interact to form the universe. They are not static extremes but dynamic forces in a constant state of alternation and combination.

Western Philosophy

Extremity/Terminus/Antipode: General philosophical or lexical synonyms for a far end or opposite point of a spectrum of qualities, opinions, or beliefs.
Axiom/Fundamental Principle: When “pole” is used in the sense of a foundational or central belief, terms like axiom, tenet, bedrock, or cornerstone are used in Western philosophy.
Mean: In Aristotelian ethics, virtue is considered a “mean” (virtus consistit in medio) between two “extremes” (vices), which can be considered poles of behavior.
Thesis/Antithesis: In some interpretations of Hegelian dialectic (though a controversial application), the opposition of a thesis and its antithesis can be seen as two “poles” leading to a synthesis.

Other Traditions

Axis Mundi (World Axis): A widespread mythological and philosophical concept found in many civilizations (e.g., Yggdrasil in Norse, Mount Meru in Hinduism) representing the central axis or connection between heaven and earth, which can be seen as a central “pole” of the universe.
Asherah Pole: In ancient Canaanite and historical Israelite religious contexts, a sacred tree or pole used to honor the goddess Asherah.
Sacred Pole: In Theravada Buddhism and Brahmin practices, this term refers to an object used in rituals, symbolizing a connection to spiritual practices.
Totem/Totem Pole: In some Indigenous North American cultures, a carved pole that tells family stories, lineage, or historical events, serving as a symbolic “pole” of identity and history.
Pillar/Column/Standard: More literal terms found in Vedic Hinduism and Dharmashastra for physical “poles” that serve structural or ceremonial purposes, sometimes symbolizing support or connection. [

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] wikipedia/en/Wuji_(philosophy)