圭
- jade tablet;
- ceremonial scepter;
Etymology
The exact etymology remains uncertain, but it is generally classified as a compound ideogram. It consists of two 土 (earth) components stacked vertically.
In bronze inscriptions, the character appears as 士 over 士, not 土. This suggests a symbolic rather than literal meaning.
圭 is a classical character denoting a jade ceremonial tablet held by rulers during formal rites.
Over time, 圭 came to represent preciousness, dignity, and rightful authority, making it a key concept in East Asian ritual culture and political symbolism.
Because 圭 was regarded as a representative jade object, the character later acquired extended meanings:
- jade object (general)
- precious item
- something worthy of reverence
These meanings are mostly literary or classical.
Usage in Korean
In Korean, 圭 appears primarily in historical, ritual, or academic contexts.
규옥(圭玉) — jade tablet
서규(瑞圭) — auspicious jade tablet
홀규(笏圭) — ceremonial tablet (general term)
Additional notes
圭 represents:
- ritual authority
- moral legitimacy
- symbolic governance
Unlike weapons or crowns, 圭 conveys power through ceremony, virtue, and order.
The term 圭表 later influenced astronomical and calendrical instruments.
Related characters:
璧 — jade disc
玉 — jade
瑞 — auspicious
笏 — ceremonial tablet (often wood or ivory)
王 — king (frequently associated with jade symbolism)
Classical references:
《周禮》 (The Rites of Zhou)
「以圭瑞辨諸侯之命」
Jade tablets are used to distinguish the authority of the feudal lords.”
《禮記》 (The Book of Rites)
「圭以象德」
“The jade tablet symbolizes virtue.”
These texts emphasize 圭 as a moral emblem, not merely a ritual tool.
