Xu Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Metal (jīn) Character: Chan Kangxi Stroke Count: 25 Page 1326, Entry 32 Pronounced chan. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is a sharp instrument. Sometimes written in a variant form. Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), Biography of Bian Que: The stone needle (chan) is used to guide the body. The commentary explains that chan is a stone needle, referring to a method of massage where one stretches the body like a bear looking back or a bird extending its wings. According to the Extensive Rhymes (Guangyun), the people of the Wu region call an iron plow a chan. Du Fu, Song of Staying in Tonggu County: A long plow, a long plow with a white wooden handle, I entrust my life to you for survival. According to the Jade Chapters (Yupian), it means to pierce or to chisel. According to the Correct Meaning Guide (Zhengzitong), it is used interchangeably with the character for chisel. Han Yu, Poem Sending Qu Hong South: The vast Dongting Lake is deep and green, the Nine Doubts Mountains pierce the sky, unsettling right and wrong. Song Jiao, Poem: Turbulent waves stand tall, carving and chiseling the precarious image of things. Also refers to a medicine spoon. Baopuzi, Chapter on Recluses: Why would one need a spoon and cauldron? Lu You, Poem: Even if I do not encounter success, what is there to regret, with my medicine spoon and cinnabar furnace in the green mountains. Pronounced chan (falling tone). An implement for turning earth.