Wu Collection, Lower Volume
Radical: Reveal (shì)
11 strokes
Page 843, Entry 07
Pronounced ji (falling tone).
According to Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it means to sacrifice. It is composed of the radical for reveal, with a right hand holding meat.
According to the Great Commentary of the Book of Documents (Shangshu Dazhuan), the word for sacrifice implies examination. Examination means arrival, signifying that human affairs reach the spirits.
According to the Commentary on the Classic of Filial Piety (Xiaojing Shizhang Shu), the word for sacrifice implies connection. It is when humans and spirits meet, hence it is called connection. For detailed information, see the chapters on the laws of sacrifice, the unity of sacrifice, and the meaning of sacrifice in the Book of Rites (Liji).
Pronounced zhai (falling tone).
The name of a fief belonging to a grand master of the Zhou dynasty.
Also a surname. A son of the Duke of Zhou was the Earl of Zhai, and his descendants adopted it as their clan name.