Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 尚 (shàng) originally depicted a structure with a roof and windows, representing concepts of 'high,' 'elevated,' or 'to esteem.' In ancient bronze inscriptions, it appeared as a building with prominent windows, suggesting ventilation or light from above. Over time, it evolved through seal script to its current form, acquiring meanings of 'still,' 'yet,' 'to value,' and 'to respect.' It serves as a phonetic component in characters like 常 (constant) and 堂 (hall), and as a standalone character expresses admiration or continuation. Arrived in Japan: The character 尚 arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE, primarily through the introduction of Chinese writing systems and Buddhist texts. It was incorporated into the Japanese writing system as part of the kanji repertoire during the Asuka and Nara periods, and appears in early Japanese texts like the Man'yōshū poetry anthology.