Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 富 evolved from ancient pictographs representing abundance and wealth. In its earliest forms found in Liushutong, it combined the radical 宀 (mián, meaning 'roof' or 'house') with 畐 (fú, meaning 'full' or 'abundant'). This composition symbolized a household with plentiful resources - literally 'a full house.' Over centuries, the character simplified while maintaining its core structure. The modern form 富 still clearly shows the roof radical above the 畐 component, preserving the original meaning of prosperity, riches, and abundance that has remained consistent for over two millennia. Arrived in Japan: The character 富 was likely introduced to Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE, along with the broader adoption of Chinese writing systems. It entered through Korean scholars and Buddhist missionaries who brought Chinese classical texts. The character was incorporated into the Japanese writing system as a kanji, retaining its meaning of wealth and abundance, and is read as 'fu' or 'tomi' in Japanese contexts.