The short story of Kanji pictures
This kanji consists of two parts. On the left is the ‘word’ radical, which originally represented a sacred oath made before God—one so absolute that breaking it meant punishment by the sword. On the right is the radical for the number ten. Together, the kanji originally meant to count aloud using words. Over time, its meaning expanded to measuring, calculating, and planning.
This kanji consists of two parts. On the left is the ‘word’ radical, which originally represented a sacred oath made before God—one so absolute that breaking it meant punishment by the sword. On the right is an element showing a hand holding a tool or weapon to strike a target. Together, the kanji originally meant to direct people using words. Over time, its meaning expanded to organizing, establishing, or building something.
This kanji consists of two parts. On the left is the “earth” or “soil” radical, and on the right is a component showing the sun shining down on the ground. Together, it originally meant a sacred place illuminated by the sun. By extension, it came to mean simply a place where people gather.
This kanji shows a rice plant blowing in the wind. So, it means “to move,” “to shift,” or “to transfer.”
This kanji consists of two parts. On the left is the radical for the number ten, and on the right are three “power” radicals. Together, this kanji represents uniting many powers for a common purpose, meaning “to cooperate” or “to collaborate.”
This kanji consists of two parts. At the top is the “autumn” character, which is made of “rice plant” and “fire,” representing the process of harvesting rice and drying it for storage. Below is the “heart” radical. Together, this kanji means to feel sorrow or grief as harvest ends and winter approaches.
