The story of 社

society, group

社 is composed of the BuShou of 示 and 土(earth). 土 depicts a mound, ancient Chinese pile up mud or stones on ground in order to pay their respect to the God of earth, while 示 is the picture of a sacrifice vessel. The original meaning of 社 is the God or earth, then it extend the meaning of society.

Vocabulary of 社

  • 社會 (society)
  • 神社 (Japanese shrine)
  • 社稷 (country
  • the Gods of earth and grain)

Classification

Related Characters: