[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Animals # 鹿 lù deer ## Components [[广 (guǎng)]] [[比 (bǐ)]] [[比 bǐ]] ## Meaning Today, the character "鹿" (lù) primarily refers to the deer, though wild deer are not commonly found in China. Metaphorically, it can symbolize gracefulness, auspiciousness, or love. Additionally, in certain phrases, it may signify uncertainty or the outcome of competitions. ## History The character "鹿" (lù) originated as a pictogram depicting a deer, with its distinctive antlers, in ancient scripts like oracle bone and bronze inscriptions. Over time, it evolved into its current form in regular script. In Chinese culture, deer were once vital food sources and are considered auspicious symbols, possibly due to their association with prosperity. A graceful and beautiful deer symbolizes auspiciousness and love. In ancient times, the character "鹿" also symbolized political power and is now used in phrases like "鹿死谁手" to indicate the outcome of competitions. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[鹿 lù - ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[鹿 lù - bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[鹿 lù - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[鹿 lù - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[鹿 lù - reg.svg]]