Mao Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Square (fāng) Kangxi Strokes: 12 Page 484, Entry 12 Pronounced zhào. As defined in the Shuowen Jiezi (Shuowen): A banner decorated with tortoise and snake patterns and four streamers, used to symbolize the celestial mansion of the Camp stars; the streamers are long and flutter in the wind. As defined in the Explanation of Names (Shiming): A banner decorated with tortoise and snake patterns is called a zhào. Zhào carries the meaning of an omen. The tortoise is capable of predicting the good or ill fortune of destiny; by raising this banner at the rear, one may observe and assess the signs of unfolding events. Book of Odes (Shijing): Raise this banner. Rites of Zhou (Zhouli), Ministry of Rites, Director of Banners: A banner with tortoise and snake patterns is called a zhào. Also: In administrative units such as districts and rural areas, this banner is raised. Commentary: The use of tortoise and snake patterns symbolizes the ability to repel disasters and avoid harm. Also: Erhu, Explanation of Heaven (Erya): A banner made from a full width of black silk measuring eight feet in length is called a zhào. Commentary: The silk width is a full bolt, and the banner length is eight feet. Book of Rites (Liji), Tan Gong: Binding the flagpole with white silk and setting up a long black banner is the ritual system of the Xia dynasty. Commentary: Black cloth used as banner streamers, which is one full bolt wide and eight feet long, is called a zhào.