This kanji shows someone using a hammer to build steps. So, it means steps or layers. Later, it also came to mean “gradually” or “step by step.”
step(段)
palace(宮)
At the top of this character is the “roof” radical, and below it is a symbol representing a person’s backbone. Together, they depict a grand building that houses royalty or religious figures, giving the character the meaning of “palace.”
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religion(宗)
This character combines the “roof” radical with an altar for gods and ancestors below. Symbolizing a private place of prayer, it evolved to mean “religion” or “spiritual teachings.”
twilight(宵)
At the top of this character is the “roof” radical, and below it is the “moon” radical topped with a small light symbol. Together, they depict faint light entering a house at dawn, giving the character the meaning of “early morning” or “twilight.”
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shrine(社)
This kanji has two parts. On the left is an altar for the gods, and on the right is a mound of earth representing the local god of the area. So, this kanji means a shrine where the local god lives.
God(神)
This kanji consists of two parts. On the left is an altar dedicated to the gods, and on the right is lightning, representing an answer from the gods. Therefore, this kanji represents a deity or god.
sever(絶)
end(末)
root(本)
roof tile(瓦)
