The Kanji 卯 embodies the spirited nature of the Rabbit, signifying not just an animal but also a specific time and direction. It carries a subtle yet profound connection to ancient calendrical systems and natural cycles.
The Deep Meaning Behind 卯
The character 卯 originates from ancient Chinese pictographs, likely depicting a door opening or perhaps two halves separating, symbolizing the dawn. It later became associated with the fourth of the twelve Earthly Branches (十二支, jūnishi), corresponding to the Year of the Rabbit.
In the East Asian zodiac, the Rabbit (卯) represents gentleness, vigilance, cleverness, and self-restraint. It also marks the hour of 5-7 AM and the cardinal direction of due East in traditional timekeeping and cosmology.
Kanji Breakdown
The Kanji 卯 is a fundamental character with a distinct visual and etymological history.
Meaning: This character is considered a pictograph, possibly representing a gate opening in the morning, aligning with its association with dawn and the East. Its form has evolved from ancient oracle bone script, consistently maintaining a sense of symmetry and opening.
Conclusion
The Kanji 卯 is more than just ‘rabbit’; it is a symbol imbued with the qualities of its zodiac animal—gentleness, agility, and caution—and signifies the start of a new day and the direction of new beginnings.
Choosing 卯 for a tattoo connects you to a rich tradition of East Asian cosmology, representing not only your birth year but also the hopeful spirit of dawn and the calm strength of the rabbit.
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