This figure is closely related to the concept of a ‘book.’ It depicts an ancient style of book resting respectfully upon a desk. In old times, people preserved their most important documents and law books in this exact manner.
This kanji perfectly captures the image of smoke rising up from a house window. Just as it looks, the energy of moving ‘further upward’ gives this character the meaning of ‘OVER’ or ‘ESTEEMED’ (High status).