Hai Collection, Upper Volume
Radical: Bone (gǔ)
髀
Kangxi stroke count: 18
Page 1449, Entry 35
Pronounced bì (falling tone)
According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to the thigh. According to the Definitions of Names (Shiming), the thigh is that which is underneath. According to the Book of Rites (Liji), in the Deep Garments chapter, it states that the belt should not hang lower than the thigh. Furthermore, in the Sacrificial Statutes (Jitong), it is noted that the Yin dynasty people valued the thigh, as it is thick.
Pronounced mǐ (rising tone)
The meaning is the same as above.
Pronounced bì (falling tone)
Also written as a variant form. Sometimes also written as a variant form.
Textual research: In the Record of Three Years' Mourning (Sannian Wen), it states the belt should not hang lower than the thigh. This has been corrected to the Deep Garments chapter of the Book of Rites (Liji) based on the original text.