[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Society-and-Culture \ #Interpersonal-Relationships # 孝 xiào filial piety ## Components [[老 lǎo]] [[老 (lǎo)]] [[子 zǐ]] [[子 (zǐ)]] ## Meaning Today, "孝" (xiào) primarily means filial piety or the virtue of respecting and caring for one's parents. It emphasizes the importance of children supporting, respecting, and caring for their elderly parents, ensuring their well-being and happiness. ## History "孝" originally depicted an elderly person with long hair. In bronze script, it evolved into a child carrying an elderly person on its back. Later, in seal script, it became more standardized. In clerical script, it took on its modern form. Its original meaning is to serve and honor one's parents, showing respect and obedience to them, and caring for them wholeheartedly. It is often associated with the virtues of filial piety and family devotion. Today, "孝" emphasizes the importance of young people supporting and caring for the elderly, ensuring that they can enjoy their later years in comfort and happiness. It symbolizes the respect and care children should give to their parents. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[孝 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[孝 bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[孝 sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[孝 xiào cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[孝 reg.svg]]