业
yè · HSK 7
occupation
🏭 业 yè = line of business, industry, occupation (as in 工业 industry, 职业 job)
业 covers what fills your working life: a trade, profession, or whole industry. Familiar in 作业 (homework/task), 毕业 (graduate, finish one's studies), and 企业 (enterprise). Also a surname, Ye.
业 — top 业 (originally a notched board)
Originally a pictograph of a notched wooden board hung in ancient classrooms or temples to support bells and chimes. The notches inspired meanings of 'work' and 'profession,' as such boards were tools of trade and study. Today it means business, occupation, or undertaking.