Mao Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Axe (jīn) Zhan Kangxi stroke count: 11 Page 479, Entry 11 Pronounced zhan. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it means to cut or sever. The character structure consists of carriage and axe, implying a punishment as severe as being torn apart by carriages. According to the Erudite Refinements (Boya), it means to cut or decide. According to the Explanation of Text (Shiewen), the term implies brevity or suddenness, as in a sudden application of force that severs something. According to the Erudite Glossary (Erya), the term means to kill. In the Book of Odes (Shijing), it refers to launching a military campaign against the feudal states in the four directions. According to the Rites of Zhou (Zhouli), the official in charge of punishments oversees the execution of thieves and spies, whose bodies are then displayed in public. Also, in the poetry of Du Fu, it refers to fresh, newly opened flower buds that have not yet withered. A note mentions that the Chan school of Buddhism uses the phrase fresh sun and moon. Also pronounced zhan (falling tone). It means to cut away or eliminate.