• 自(nose (pictographic) → self; body)

Ancient people pointed to their nose when saying "I," so the character for nose also means self.

• 扌(hand; arm)
• 戈(spear; weapon)

Using a hand to hold a spear while searching and rummaging, seeking an enemy.

• 艹(grass; plant)
• 古(ancient; old)

An ancient grass variety carries a bitter, acrid, and harsh taste.

• 口(mouth; opening)
• 乞(beg for food; ask for food)

An open mouth asking for food is the daily act of eating and drinking.

• 自(nose (pictographic) → self; body)

Ancient people pointed to their nose when saying "I," so the character for nose also means self.

• 扌(hand; arm)
• 戈(spear; weapon)

Using a hand to hold a spear while searching and rummaging, seeking an enemy.

• 艹(grass; plant)
• 古(ancient; old)

An ancient grass variety carries a bitter, acrid, and harsh taste.

• 口(mouth; opening)
• 乞(beg for food; ask for food)

An open mouth asking for food is the daily act of eating and drinking.