respectful
祗 centers on a deep, reverent respect, often in a ceremonial or divine context. The given meaning 'respectful' captures this attitude of humble veneration.
祗 combines 示 (altar, spirit) with 氐, which likely contributes the sound. The character expresses reverence toward spirits or deities.
The left side 示 suggests an altar or spirit. Picture kneeling before an altar with the right side 氐 as a person bowing low: a deeply respectful posture.
For シ, imagine a respectful shepherdess guiding her flock near an altar: she -> シ, and her gentle manner shows deep respect.