Details
Stroke Order
Component Breakdown
halberd + 廾
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of weapon and two hands. Holding weapon with both hands in vigilance.
Symbolism
Precept, vigilance, admonition. Represents self-control and warning.
Spiritual Meaning
Represents Buddhist precepts, self-discipline and abstinence for spiritual cultivation.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
斎戒沐浴
さいかいもくよく
purification; washing; purification
一罰百戒
いちばつひゃっかい
punishing a crime to make an example for others; punishing a crime to make an example for others
Proverbs & Idioms
他山の石以て玉を攻むべし
たざんのいしもってたまをおさむべし
Use stones from other mountains to polish your jade
Learn from the mistakes of others as a warning for yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 戒 mean in Japanese?
戒 means commandment.
How do you read 戒?
On'yomi: カイ (KAI). Kun'yomi: いまし.める (imashimeru).
How many strokes does 戒 have?
戒 has 7 strokes. Its radical is 戈 (halberd).
Is 戒 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 戒 (commandment) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for commandment