素質
そしつ · soshitsu · JLPT N2 · noun
endowment
素 (raw, plain) + 質 (quality) = raw quality you are born with, i.e. talent
素 means raw or undyed, and 質 means substance or quality. Together they name the innate quality present before any training, which is why the word means talent or capability.
素 — silk 糸 + sheng 𠂹 (hanging threads)
Originally depicted raw, undyed silk hanging to dry, with the silk radical 糸 below and strands above. From this came the meaning 'plain, unadorned, white,' then extended to 'basic element' or 'plain/simple' in general. The 'vegetarian' sense developed later from the idea of plain, unembellished food.