About
祓 is a phono-semantic compound with the altar radical 礻 on the left, linking it to rituals and the supernatural, and the phonetic component 犮 on the right. It primarily denotes ancient purification rites, especially ceremonies to cleanse evil spirits or misfortune. These rituals were often performed near water during festivals to wash away inauspicious influences. The character’s structure reflects its ritual origins and continues to be used in literary and historical contexts for exorcism and spiritual purification, without distinct traditional or simplified forms.
Etymology Hide
