Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 諒 (ryō) evolved from ancient Chinese script forms found in the Liushutong. It is composed of 言 (speech/words) and 京 (capital/city), originally meaning 'sincere, honest, truth' - suggesting speech as upright and reliable as the capital's authority. Over time, it maintained its core meaning of trustworthiness and sincerity, while also developing meanings related to forgiveness and understanding (as in '諒解' - understanding/forgiveness). The character represents how honest communication forms the foundation of trust in relationships. Arrived in Japan: The character 諒 likely arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE along with the broader introduction of Chinese writing systems and Confucian classics, becoming established in the Japanese writing system during the Asuka and Nara periods when Chinese cultural influence was particularly strong.