[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Celestial-Phenomena # 雷 léi thunder ## Components [[雨 (yǔ)]] [[雨 yǔ]] [[田 (tián)]] ## Meaning Today, the character "雷" (léi) primarily refers to "thunder" in modern Chinese. It retains its original meaning related to thunderstorms and is commonly used to describe the natural phenomenon of thunder and lightning. Additionally, it can still carry metaphorical connotations of power, awe, or sudden loud noises. ## History The character "雷" (léi) depicts lightning and thunder in the sky. Originally represented by curved lines for lightning and circles for thunder, it evolved in bronze script to include "雨" (rain) above and four circles below, symbolizing heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning. Primarily, "雷" refers to the sound of thunder. Lightning's intense heat causes air expansion, generating shockwaves and sound. Thunder's intensity varies, producing sharp crackling or deep rumbling noises. In ancient China, thunder and lightning symbolized the clash of Yin and Yang energies. "雷" metaphorically describes anger as "暴跳如雷" (bellow like thunder), depicting furious rage. In mythology, "雷公" (Thunder God) personifies thunder's power, enforcing justice by punishing the guilty during storms. In the "Book of Changes," "震" (thunder) advises cautiousness and respect in decision-making for favorable outcomes. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[雷 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[雷 bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[雷 sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ? ### Regular Script ![[雷 léi - reg 1.svg]]