A Tribute during Black History Month
As we embark on the celebration of Black History Month, it’s essential to recognize the myriad contributions of African descendants not just in shaping modern civilization but also in sculpting the contours of Eastern philosophy. The historical interweaving of African traditions with Eastern thought offers a rich narrative, highlighting a profound exchange of wisdom that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. This blog post seeks to illuminate these connections, drawing upon documented examples to honour the African influence on Eastern philosophies and spiritual practices.
### The Ancient Egyptian Influence on Greek Philosophy
The journey begins in ancient Egypt, a civilization that stood as a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment long before the Hellenistic era. It’s well-documented that Greek philosophers, who are often credited with laying the foundations of Western philosophy, were greatly influenced by their Egyptian counterparts. Thales of Miletus, who is recognized as the first Greek philosopher, is said to have studied in Egypt, immersing himself in the profound knowledge of the priests and sages. Plato, too, spent thirteen years in Egypt, learning from the wisdom of ancient hieroglyphs and the teachings of Egyptian mystics. This exchange illustrates how African wisdom traditions shaped the philosophical underpinnings that would later influence the development of Eastern thought through the Hellenistic spread into Asia.
### The Spiritual Synergy between African and Eastern Traditions
Further exploring the spiritual synergies, we find remarkable parallels between African spirituality and Eastern philosophies, particularly in their understanding of the universe and the interconnectedness of all life forms. African spiritual traditions, with their deep-rooted beliefs in the oneness of being and the ancestral realm, resonate with the core principles of nonduality and interconnectedness found in Eastern philosophy. For instance, the concept of Ubuntu in Southern Africa—emphasizing community, connection, and mutual caring for all—is echoed in the philosophies of Buddhism and Hinduism, which advocate for compassion, empathy, and the realization of oneness.
### The Yoruba Influence on Transcendental Meditation
An intriguing example of direct influence is the practice of Transcendental Meditation, which shares similarities with the meditation practices of the Yoruba religion of West Africa. The Yoruba spiritual system, with its intricate practices of meditation and communion with the divine, predates many Eastern meditation practices. The emphasis on achieving a higher state of consciousness and connecting with a divine realm in Yoruba spirituality is mirrored in the meditative practices of Hinduism and Buddhism. This parallel not only highlights the ancient wisdom of African spiritual systems but also their contribution to the global mosaic of spiritual practices.
### Conclusion: A Shared Legacy of Wisdom
The celebration of Black History Month offers a profound opportunity to acknowledge and honour the African roots intertwined with the philosophical and spiritual traditions of the East. By recognizing these contributions, we not only pay homage to our African ancestors but also embrace a more inclusive understanding of the world’s philosophical heritage. This exploration invites us to consider the depth and richness of African influence on Eastern thought, urging us to delve deeper into our collective spiritual heritage and celebrate the shared legacy of wisdom that unites us all.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 