慶

Originally a pictographic–ideographic compound:

In oracle bone script, the character shows a deer (鹿) turned sideways with its legs spread and a heart (心) beneath. Interpreted as the heart’s rejoicing, linked with the offering of deer hides in rituals of thanksgiving and celebration.

Through bronze inscriptions and small seal script, the deer's legs stylized into forms resembling 乛 and 夂, enclosing 心 at the center.

Later mistaken for containing 广 (“house, shelter”), but in fact it derives from stylized deer elements.

Thus, the character embodies the idea of thanksgiving, rejoicing, and congratulation expressed through ritual.

慶祝 (경축) — to celebrate

國慶 (국경) — national day

慶賀 (경하) — congratulations

慶典 (경전) — grand ceremony, celebration

慶事 (경사) — joyous event, happy occasion

In Confucian ritual culture, 慶 was one of the key expressions of 礼 (li, ritual propriety), especially in ceremonies marking blessings, prosperity, and good fortune.

Deer imagery was traditionally associated with longevity, prosperity, and auspicious events; its connection to 慶 underscores that true celebration arises from gratitude and reverence.

In modern usage, 慶 appears in both official contexts (e.g., 國慶日, “National Day”) and personal ones (e.g., wedding celebrations, birthdays).