[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Society-and-Culture \ #Politics-and-Military # 帝 dì emperor; supreme being ## Components [[立 (lì)]] [[立 lì]] [[巾 (jīn)]] [[巾 jīn]] ## Meaning Today, "帝" usually refers to an emperor or monarch, especially in historical contexts. It can also be used in a more general sense to mean supreme ruler or sovereign. Additionally, "帝" can refer to God in religious contexts, especially in traditional Chinese religions. ## History Originally, "帝" meant heavenly gods or the highest deity. Later, it extended to mean emperor or monarch. When "帝" is used as a verb, it means to proclaim oneself emperor. In ancient times, elaborate sacrificial ceremonies conducted to pray for abundant harvests were called "帝." "帝" is also used to refer to an altar built of wood, where offerings are made to the heavenly gods, emperors, or deities. Before the Warring States period, it specifically referred to gods or spirits who governed everything in religious or mythical beliefs, such as the Jade Emperor. After the Qin Dynasty, it referred to earthly emperors or monarchs. In the West, "God" is used in Christianity and Catholicism to refer to the deity they worship. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[帝 dì - ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[帝 dì - bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[帝 dì - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[帝 dì - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[帝 dì - reg.svg]]