1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “奉” (pronounced “hou” or “toho”) generally means “to serve,” “to offer,” or “to dedicate.” It conveys a sense of respect and submission in the act of giving or serving others.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “奉” is a compound character that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical for “to give” (the top part) and the character for “to carry” (the bottom part), symbolizing the act of offering something with care.
Radical: The radical of “奉” is “十” (ten), which is often associated with completeness or wholeness, emphasizing the full dedication in the act of serving.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “奉” are:
- 奉仕 (ほうし, houshi) – service
- 奉納 (ほうのう, hounou) – offering (to a shrine)
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は地域のために奉仕活動をしています。
(かれはちいきのためにほうしかつどうをしています。)
He is engaged in volunteer work for the community. - 神社に奉納するためにお金を集めています。
(じんじゃにほうのうするためにおかねをあつめています。)
We are collecting money to offer to the shrine.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “供” (きょう, kyou), which also means “to offer” but is often used in the context of providing or supplying something, such as in “供給” (きょうきゅう, kyoukyuu) meaning “supply.”
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “奪” (だく, daku), which means “to take away” or “to seize,” representing the opposite action of serving or offering.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “奉” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, particularly in the context of Shinto and Buddhist practices where offerings are made to deities and ancestors as a sign of respect and gratitude.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “奉仕の心” (ほうしのこころ, houshi no kokoro), which translates to “the spirit of service,” emphasizing the importance of serving others selflessly in Japanese society.