Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
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The character 繁 originally depicted a woman (女) with elaborate hair ornaments, symbolizing complexity and abundance. Over time, it evolved to combine the elements 敏 (min, meaning 'quick' or 'numerous') and 糸 (silk thread), emphasizing the concept of numerous threads woven together in intricate patterns. This evolution reinforced its meanings of 'complicated,' 'numerous,' and 'flourishing.' In modern usage, 繁 carries connotations of prosperity and complexity, appearing in words like 繁栄 (prosperity) and 繁雑 (complicated). Arrived in Japan: The character 繁 likely arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE along with the broader introduction of Chinese writing system through Buddhist texts and cultural exchange. It was incorporated into the Japanese writing system as a kanji character, reading as 'han' in on'yomi (Chinese reading) and 'shigeru' or 'shige' in kun'yomi (Japanese reading).