Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 祝 originally depicted a kneeling person (示/礻) before an altar, with an open mouth (口/兄) praying or chanting blessings. In ancient oracle bone script, it showed a person kneeling with raised hands in worship. Over time, it evolved through bronze script to clerical script, simplifying into the modern form meaning 'to bless,' 'to congratulate,' or 'to pray.' The character embodies the concept of offering prayers and good wishes in religious or celebratory contexts. Arrived in Japan: The character 祝 arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE, introduced alongside other Chinese characters through cultural exchange with Korea and China, particularly during the Yamato period when Buddhist texts and Chinese writing systems were being transmitted to Japan.