湛

Physical properties of water: deep or profound volume; clarity and transparency resulting from stillness (placid); being saturated or submerged.

Abstract or interior states: tranquility of mind (lack of agitation); profundity of knowledge, meditation, or character.

Atmospheric/visual qualities: a sense of quiet, crystalline clarity.

Predominantly adjectival or predicative. In verbal positions, it may mean "to sink deeply" or "to become saturated." Reduplication (湛湛) often shifts the focus from a static quality to an evocative visual effect, suggesting vastness, shimmering light, or pervasive serenity.

[DISTINITIONS]

Contrast with 澄 (chéng): while both refer to clear water, 澄 typically emphasizes the process of clarification (sediment settling), whereas 湛 describes the resulting state of deep, quiet transparency.

Tang-period reading: djhæ̌m.

The glyph suggests a stillness so complete that it becomes transparent. When choosing a translation, determine if the emphasis is on the volume/depth, the lack of agitation, or the resulting clarity.