history, ancient official historian

史 is a pictograph depicting a hand holding a tally or symbol. The tally, a credential used by envoys or high-ranking officials to pass through city gates or checkpoints, was inscribed with text and typically split into two halves that were matched when used. In ancient times, leaving a city to visit another country was a significant event, worthy of being recorded in writing and passed down to future generations. Additionally, 史, 吏 (official), and 事 (affair) share the same origin, with closely related forms and meanings, indicating their deep connection.