Abstract
The character “亦” in oracle bone inscriptions from the Yin Ruins is usually explained as meaning “也 (also, still)” or “又 (again, also, but)”. When discussing some oracle bone inscriptions, these explanations are suitable. However, this is not always the case.
This article uses oracle bone inscriptions and documentary evidence as a basis for discussion and argues that the “亦” seen in some oracle bone inscriptions should be read as “夜 (night)”. This is an example of “亦” being used as a homophonic and phonetic loan. The article also explores the possibility that, during the Yin-Shang dynasty, battles, sacrifices, and agricultural activities may have sometimes taken place at night.
Keywords
oracle bones, “亦”, “夜 (night)”, war, agriculture
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