SHUOWEN JIEZI Meaning and
Definition
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Shuowen Jiezi, also known as Shuo Wen Jie Zi or simply Shuowen, is a renowned Chinese dictionary that dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE). The term "shuowen jiezi" consists of three Chinese characters: "shuo" (说) meaning to explain or to say, "wen" (文) referring to written language or script, and "jiezi" (解字) denoting to decode or decipher characters.
Considered one of the earliest comprehensive dictionaries in China, Shuowen Jiezi plays a significant role in the study and understanding of Chinese characters. Compiled by scholar Xu Shen, it consists of almost 10,000 Chinese characters, meticulously categorizing them based on their form, structure, and meaning. The dictionary effectively breaks down characters into their individual components, known as radicals, and provides explanations for their meanings.
Shuowen Jiezi not only serves as a dictionary but also functions as a linguistic and philological reference tool, aiding in the study of ancient texts and literature. It strives to elucidate the etymology of Chinese characters, tracing their origins and historical developments. The dictionary's rich content and detailed explanations have greatly contributed to the preservation, standardization, and evolution of the Chinese language.
Today, Shuowen Jiezi remains an important resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts seeking to delve into the intricacies of Chinese script and language. Its enduring significance has solidified its position as a key foundation in the field of Chinese linguistics and calligraphy.
Etymology of SHUOWEN JIEZI
The word "Shuowen Jiezi" (說文解字) is a Chinese term that refers to one of the earliest Chinese lexicographical works, written by Xu Shen during the Han Dynasty (c. 100 AD). The etymology of the word breaks down as follows:
1. Shuowen (說文): "Shuo" (說) means to explain or to speak, and "wen" (文) means writing or language. Thus, "Shuowen" translates to "explaining language" or "describing words".
2. Jiezi (解字): "Jie" (解) means to explain or to decode, and "zi" (字) means character or script. Therefore, "Jiezi" can be translated to "explaining characters" or "decoding characters".
