There are countless Eastern philosophies and religions that share similar inspirations and concepts. The origins of these inspirations can largely be traced back to Hinduism, which is considered to be the oldest recognized religion in the world. Hinduism originated in India, one of the oldest cultures in the world, from ancient texts called Vedas or the book of wisdom. These texts, such as ancient hymns and rituals, are considered by many to embody the essence of Hindu thought. As Hinduism spread eastward, various interpretations of its ideas evolved into other philosophies. As a result, philosophies such as Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, among others, share many cultural characteristics and ideas.

One key cultural feature that reveals the way that Easterners, and more specifically Hindus, think is haiku poetry. Haiku poetry is a form of thoughtful poetry that exalts nature, contrasts, and colors. Haikus typically consist of three lines and seventeen syllables, structured in a 5-7-5 pattern. These poems are meant to reflect a moment, impression, or sensation of the particular truth of nature. According to Bill Higginson, the main purpose of reading or writing haiku poems is to share moments from people’s lives that have moved us, experiences and perceptions that we offer or receive as gifts. This is the main purpose of all art when looked at on a deeper level.

Basho is a well-known Eastern poet who wrote a haiku poem. He lived from 1644 to 1694. The translated version of his poem reads as follows:

When I look carefully I see the shepherd’s purse blooming By the roadside!

It is possible that Basho was simply walking along a road when he saw something behind a hedge. He came closer to take a good look at that thing hiding behind the hedge and realized that it was just a wild plant, something that would not usually be seen by passersby.