Xu Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Metal (jīn) Character: xian Kangxi Stroke Count: 15 Page 1308, Entry 16 According to the Sound Rhymes (Jiyun), pronounced xian. The term xian-xian refers to a small chisel. Additionally, according to the Correct Character Understanding (Zhengzitong), xian is a type of small spear-like tool. In the Book of History, it is recorded that when Hou Andu was drinking with Xiao Mohe, Mohe threw a xian, which struck the forehead of a Western barbarian and killed him instantly. Yang Shen identified the xian as the weapon used by Qin Qiong, pronouncing the character as xian.