auspicious, propitious

祥 is composed of the radical 示 (recmveal) and 羊 (sheep, goat). 示 carries the meaning of sacrificial rites. Because the sheep is gentle in temperament and has delicious meat, it was an important sacrificial animal in ancient times and was used to pray to Heaven for blessings. Therefore, 祥 is used to describe all things that are auspicious, fortunate, and beneficial.