[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Plants # 树 shù tree ## Components [[木 (mù)]] [[对 duì]] ## Meaning The character 树 (shù) means "tree" or "to plant trees." It represents the tall, perennial woody plant that typically has a single stem or trunk supporting branches and leaves. Trees are essential in ecosystems, providing oxygen, habitat, and resources for various organisms. In Chinese culture, trees symbolize longevity, strength, and growth. ## History Historically, the character 树 (shù) has been used in Chinese writing for centuries to refer to trees or the act of planting trees. Its earliest forms were pictographs resembling the shape of a tree with branches and roots. Over time, these pictographs evolved into the simplified form we recognize today. As a fundamental element of nature, trees and the character 树 (shù) have played significant roles in Chinese literature, art, and philosophy, reflecting the cultural reverence for nature and the environment. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ？ ### Bronze Script ？ ### Seal Script ![[树 shù - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[树 shù - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[树 shù - reg.svg]]