汲

Literal: The physical extraction of water from a deep source (typically via bucket and rope), implying vertical movement.

Extended/Metaphorical: Taking in liquid or drawing sustenance; absorbing knowledge, inspiration, or strength from a source.

Transitive verb. Depending on context, the action may carry a nuance of labor or necessity associated with the effort of hauling water.

Contrast with 灌 (guàn): 汲 is extraction (taking water out), whereas 灌 is irrigation or pouring (putting water in).

Contrast with 洗 (xǐ) and 濯 (zhuó): 汲 involves no element of cleaning or washing.

Tang-period reading: *gyip.

The glyph supports both literal physical labor (hauling a bucket) and metaphorical intellectual or spiritual acquisition; the translator must determine which applies based on context.