Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 忌 evolved from ancient forms depicting 'a heart/mind restrained.' It combines 己 (self) with 心 (heart) in its historical forms, representing the concept of restraint, taboo, or avoidance. Originally meaning 'to dread' or 'to abstain from,' it reflects the psychological restraint of one's heart/mind. The modern form 忌 shows 己 over 心 (hidden below), maintaining this core meaning of avoidance, prohibition, or mourning - all states where the heart is restrained. Arrived in Japan: The character likely arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE along with the introduction of Chinese writing systems, possibly through Buddhist texts and Confucian classics where characters expressing moral restraint and ritual avoidance were common.