經
classic works, pass through
Readings
On'yomi
- ケイ
- キョウ
Kun'yomi
- へ.る
- た.つ
- たていと
- はか.る
- のり
Nanori
- つね
Meaning
經 centers on a thread-like path that runs through something, connecting the ideas of passing through a place or time and the enduring, foundational nature of classic works that have been passed down through generations.
Study
Etymology
經 is the traditional form of 経. It combines 糸 (thread) with 巠, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of a vertical thread or warp, giving the sense of something that runs through or serves as a guiding line.
Meaning mnemonic
The left side 糸 is thread, and the right side 巠 looks like a vertical line with a top and base. Imagine a thread passing straight through a loom or a classic text, connecting everything like a warp thread.
Reading mnemonic
For ケイ, picture a classic work being passed through a keyhole: key -> ケイ, and the thread of the story passes through time.