Wei Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Meat (ròu) Entry: Kidney Kangxi stroke count: 14 Page 987, Entry 01 Pronounced shen (rising tone). According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is the water organ. Xu says, the kidney governs wisdom and stores essence, all of which are manifestations of the water element. According to the Broad Rhymes (Guangyun), it is one of the five viscera. According to the Correct Meaning Through Characters (Zhengzitong), the kidneys are located on both sides below the stomach, level with the navel, wrapped in fat outside the muscles, appearing white on the surface and black inside. According to the Basic Questions (Suwen), the kidney is the official in charge of vigor, from which dexterity originates. Also, each of the viscera is singular, but the kidneys are a pair; why is this? The pair does not consist of two kidneys. The left one is the kidney, and the right one is the Gate of Life. Book of Rites (Liji), Monthly Ordinances (Yueling): In the first month of winter, offer the sacrifice of the kidney to the ancestors. Annotation: The yin position is below, and the kidney is also below. Book of Documents (Shangshu), Pan Geng: Now I will lay out my heart, belly, kidneys, and intestines to proclaim my will to all you people. Huainanzi, Spirit Training (Jingshen Xun): The kidney acts as rain. Also, it means to draw. According to the Explanation of Names (Shiming): Kidney means to draw. The kidney belongs to the water element and governs the drawing of water energy to irrigate all the vessels. Also according to the Elegant Reference (Boya): It means firm.