The Five Platforms of Zhong Xin Dao Learning Approach : What, Why, and How
The Five Platforms provide a systematic framework for "learning how to learn." This approach focuses on recognizing the functions of nature as they are and distinguishing between relative and absolute truth. By maintaining the correct viewpoint, practitioners observe the origin and relationship of all movements.
1. The Three Knowledges
Progression through the art is categorized into three distinct levels of comprehension:
Knowledge from Others: Second-hand information gathered from listening and contemplation. While essential for establishing correct concepts and principles, it serves primarily as a "pointer" toward direct experience.
Knowledge from Thinking: The process of internalizing information through analysis and reflection.
Knowledge from Direct Experience: First-hand wisdom gained only through being present in the moment. Direct knowing requires the stability of awareness to see things as they are without falling back on past judgments.
2. The Characteristics of Nature
To maintain a "direct" state, an instructor must understand the fundamental laws of nature:
Constant Change: Recognized in Taoism as Change and in Zen as Impermanence.
Non-Solidity: The understanding that no entity is a single, solid piece; everything forms through conditions.
The Principle of 1-2-3: Based on the unification and separation of complementary forces (Yin and Yang). To remain "with" the change, one must find the balance point in the present. This is achieved through the Three Engagements (Circle with Center, Center-to-Center, and Center with a Cross), which serve as tools to monitor and know the moment.
3. The Quality of Knowing
Knowing is defined as the ability to perceive difference without the interference of comparison or judgment.
Objective Observation: Seeing the cause and consequence of every action in real-time.
Balanced Action: Based on the principle that a balanced cause produces a balanced effect.
Reference Points: Awareness is held on a neutral reference to ensure the mind remains in the present rather than retreating to past references.
4. Attention and the Mind
Training the mind involves the stabilization and direction of attention (Yi, Qi, and Li).
Singular Focus: The mind functions on one thing at one time. Training involves holding one neutral reference point (such as a point of rotation) to observe how it connects to the whole.
Conscious Training: Instructors must monitor whether the mind is actively watching the center and circumference or simply moving out of habit.
Clarity through Balancing: Just as the eyes must constantly adjust to maintain a clear image, the mind must constantly balance to maintain clarity and presence.
5. The Point of Contact
The point of contact is where all internal and external information meets.
The Six Senses: Contact occurs through the six faculties (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and mind).
The Internal Receiver: All sensory information is processed internally. Instructors must understand these faculties as receivers to avoid projecting attention "outside" and losing the neutral point of view.
Merging: At the point of contact, the distinction between subject and object dissolves, allowing the practitioner to occupy the space and "listen" to the energy of the moment.
Summary of the Approach
All Five Platforms are approached through the unified philosophy of one balance point and one line. This structure ensures that every instructor and student maintains a clear, monitored, and objective path toward mastery.
