Show, Indicate

Interesting Fact

Long before 示 meant “show” or “indicate,” its ancient form was connected to an altar used for religious offerings. The shape represented a sacred altar or table where offerings were placed so that the gods could see them. From the idea of presenting something for divine observation, the character developed its modern sense of showing, displaying, and indicating. This is why 示 appears in many Japanese kanji connected with religion and ritual, such as 神 (god), 祭 (festival/ritual), and 礼 (etiquette/ritual). ⛩️🙏