finger, point to, indicate, put into, play (chess), measure (ruler)
指 centers on the finger as a tool for pointing, indicating, or precise manipulation. Its extended meanings—measuring, playing chess, or putting into—all involve directed, finger-like action.
指 combines 扌 (hand) with 旨, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of pointing or indicating. The finger is the part of the hand used for pointing.
The hand radical 扌 beside 旨 (which looks like a finger pointing at a target) shows a finger pointing to indicate or measure something.
For シ, imagine using your finger to point at a sheet of paper: sheet -> シ, and your finger indicates the exact spot.
designation; specification; assignment; appointment; pointing at
guidance; leadership; instruction; direction; coaching
finger; toe; digit
pointing out; identification
to aim at (for, to do, to become); to try for; to have an eye on
indication; denotation; designation
command; direction; supervision
naming; nominating; designating
(finger) ring
to point
order; directive; instructions; command
index; index number; indicator
index; indices; indicator
thumb
fingerprint
fingertip; finger
needle (compass, gauge, etc.); hand (clock); indicator; pointer; index
leading; foremost; preeminent; outstanding; one of the best
middle finger; long finger; second finger; tall finger
index finger; forefinger; first (occ. second) finger
little finger; pinky; fourth (occ. fifth) finger
calling by name; designation; nomination
ring finger; third finger; fourth finger (esp. in piano-playing)
directions; instructions; orders; command
to indicate; to show; to point to
to point at
pinky swear (i.e. linking little fingers to confirm a promise); pinky promise
rice-crop index
government course (curriculum) guidelines
putting (a named suspect) on the wanted list
leader; guide; mentor; coach
(musical) conductor
price index