Chou Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Woman (nǚ) Bi Kangxi strokes: 7 Page 257, Entry 03 Pronounced bi (rising tone) Book of Rites (Erya), Interpretation of Relationships: A father is called kao, and a mother is called bi. Zheng Commentary: The meaning of bi is to match or pair, signifying one who matches the father. Analytical Dictionary of Characters (Shuowen): A deceased mother. Book of Rites (Liji), Qu Li: During their lifetime, they are referred to as parents; after they have passed away, they are referred to as kao and bi. Book of Etiquette and Ceremonial (Yili), Pei Shi: Bi and kao are sacrificed to together, occupying the same position, without separate spirit tablets. According to the Xie family commentary: The Book of Changes (Yijing) states, having a son as a father entails no blame, and the Book of Documents (Shangshu) mentions serving one's father, and the like. Generally, kao and bi were common terms used in ancient times; they were not names used exclusively after death. Also pronounced bi (falling tone). A name for a mother. Textual Correction: Book of Rites (Erya), Interpretation of Relationships: Father is called kao, mother is called bi. The original text two uses of the character yue have been corrected to read as the character bi.