Xiao Erya

Xiao Erya (小爾雅) is an ancient Chinese dictionary and encyclopedia, believed to have been compiled during the Han Dynasty. It is one of the earliest known Chinese encyclopedias, smaller in scope than the Erya (爾雅), from which it derives its name, meaning "Lesser Erya."

The authorship of the Xiao Erya is traditionally attributed to Kong Anguo (孔安國), a scholar of the early Han Dynasty. However, some scholars question this attribution.

The work aims to explain and categorize various aspects of the natural world, human affairs, and social customs. It covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Shi Gong (釋宮): Explanations of buildings and palaces.
• Shi Qi (釋器): Explanations of vessels and tools.
• Shi Yue (釋樂): Explanations of music.
• Shi Yu (釋魚): Explanations of fish.
• Shi Niao (釋鳥): Explanations of birds.
• Shi Shou (釋獸): Explanations of beasts.

Like the Erya, the Xiao Erya employs a glossing style, defining terms through synonyms or brief explanations. It provides valuable insights into the knowledge and worldview of the Han Dynasty. While shorter and less comprehensive than the Erya, the Xiao Erya remains a significant resource for understanding early Chinese lexicography and cultural history. Its concise definitions and categorical organization make it a useful reference for researchers studying ancient Chinese language and culture.