Wei Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Silk (mì) Kangxi Strokes: 10 Page 918, Entry 05 Pronounced jí. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to the order of silk threads. In the Jade Chapter (Yupian), it refers to the tiers of a staircase. According to the Extensive Rhymes (Guangyun), it refers to a rank or grade. A common variant form is used. In the Book of Rites (Liji), specifically the section on Summary of the Rules of Propriety (Quli), it refers to pausing at each step when climbing a staircase. The commentary notes that this refers to the levels or grades. It also refers to the distinction between noble and common social ranks, as mentioned in the Monthly Ordinances (Yueling). In the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), specifically the Basic Annals of the First Emperor of Qin, it refers to the granting of one level of nobility. In the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), specifically the Biography of Fan Kuai, it refers to the decapitation of fifteen enemy heads.