Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 成 originally depicted a battle-axe (戊) placed against a city wall, symbolizing 'completion' or 'achievement' through military conquest. In oracle bone script, it showed an axe blade pointing downward, indicating the act of subduing or accomplishing. Over time, the form simplified while retaining the weapon element, evolving to represent broader meanings of success, completion, and becoming. The character embodies the ancient concept that great achievements often required decisive action and overcoming obstacles. Arrived in Japan: The character 成 likely arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE, along with the broader introduction of Chinese writing systems through Buddhist texts and diplomatic exchanges. It became incorporated into the Japanese language as part of the kanji system, appearing in early Japanese documents like the Kojiki (712 CE) and Nihon Shoki (720 CE), often used in names and to express concepts of accomplishment and success.