灵
líng · HSK 7
quick
灵 = 彐 (hand) over 火 (fire); a hand quick and nimble as flame
Traditional form 靈 stacks 雨 (rain) above shamans (巫) chanting through three mouths (口) to call down efficacious spirits. The streamlined 灵 keeps the sense quick, alert, and effective. Sound: líng, a clear high tone like a struck bell.
灵 — rain 雨 + mouths 口口口 + shaman 巫
Originally written 靈, depicting shamans (巫) using mouths (口口口) to chant prayers for rain (雨). The character meant a spirit medium who could summon rain, then broadened to mean spirit, soul, or supernatural efficacy. The simplified form 灵 replaces the lower portion with 火 (fire) over 彐.