1. Kanji Breakdown: 義
This kanji represents a profound concept of morality, duty, and righteousness that is central to East Asian ethical philosophy.
Meaning: Righteousness, justice, morality, duty, honor, meaning. It refers to a moral principle that is right and just, often tied to social obligations and personal integrity.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): ギ (gi)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): None in common modern use.
The kanji is a compound ideograph (会意文字). It consists of two parts:
Top (羊): This means "sheep." In ancient times, sheep were considered symbols of goodness and auspiciousness.
Bottom (我): This means "I," "me," or "self."
The most widely accepted interpretation is that the character represents "what makes me good" or "bringing the self into alignment with what is good." Thus, "義" is the principle of subjugating one's personal interests to a higher moral good.
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "義" has 13 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 13
Start with the top part "羊":
Then, write the bottom part "我":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from top to bottom, left to right.
The top part "羊" should be slightly narrower.
The bottom part "我" is complex. Pay special attention to the horizontal strokes and the final hook (はね).
The overall structure should be balanced, with the "我" part providing a solid base.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "義" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
義理 (ぎり, giri)
Meaning: Duty, sense of social obligation, debt of gratitude. (A key concept in Japanese society, meaning a moral obligation to repay others).
Example: 義理で彼の結婚式に出席した。
Romaji: Giri de kare no kekkonshiki ni shusseki shita.
English: I attended his wedding out of a sense of duty.
正義 (せいぎ, seigi)
Meaning: Justice, fairness.
Example: 彼は正義感が強い。
Romaji: Kare wa seigi-kan ga tsuyoi.
English: He has a strong sense of justice.
意味 (いみ, imi)
Meaning: Meaning, significance. Note: This is one of the most common words using "義," where it carries the sense of "right meaning."
Example: この言葉の意味を教えてください。
Romaji: Kono kotoba no imi o oshiete kudasai.
English: Please tell me the meaning of this word.
義父 (ぎふ, gifu)
Meaning: Father-in-law; foster father; stepfather.
Example: 私の義父はとても親切だ。
Romaji: Watashi no gifu wa totemo shinsetsu da.
English: My father-in-law is very kind.
主義 (しゅぎ, shugi)
Meaning: Principle, doctrine, -ism (e.g., capitalism, socialism).
Example: 彼は平和主義者です。
Romaji: Kare wa heiwa-shugi-sha desu.
English: He is a pacifist (peace doctrine person).
義勇 (ぎゆう, giyuu)
Meaning: Righteousness and courage; patriotism.
Example: 義勇のために行動する。
Romaji: Giyuu no tame ni kōdō suru.
English: To act out of righteous courage.
Summary
Kanji: 義
Core Meaning: Righteousness, Justice, Duty, Meaning. It represents a moral principle that guides correct action.
Readings: On'yomi ギ (gi)
Stroke Order: 13 strokes. Remember it's composed of 羊 (top - goodness) and 我 (bottom - self). Practice writing it step-by-step to master its form.
This kanji is essential for understanding key concepts in Japanese ethics and social relations. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to grasp and express complex ideas about duty, justice, and meaning.