Xu Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Metal (jīn) 鋏 Kangxi Strokes: 15 Page 1307, Entry 07 Pronounced jiá. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is a tool used to hold smelting implements during casting and melting. Derived from metal, with the sound element jia. Another source suggests it functions like the word to hold or contain. Xu says: An iron instrument used to hold pots during casting. Also, according to the Jade Chapters (Yupian), it refers to a sword. In the Strategies of the Warring States (Zhan Guo Ce), Feng Huan tapped his sword hilt and sang: Oh, long sword, let us return. In the Rhapsody on the Capital of Wu (Wu Du Fu) by Zuo Si, it is written: Animals use their teeth and horns as spears and swords. The commentary notes: The term jia refers to the blade and edge of a sword, distinguishing between long and short varieties. Also commonly written as the character for hold/pinch (jia). In the Chapter on Swords (Shuo Jian Pian) of the Zhuangzi, it is written: Han and Wei used the holding/pinching method. The commentary notes: The character for hold/pinch is traditionally pronounced xie. It signifies grasping or controlling. Some versions of the text use the character jia.