Tangut character 𗴨

It is glossed as “branch” in Tangut. Li Fanwen’s Tangut–Chinese dictionary lists this character with the English gloss “branch.” The gloss is a translation clue for a Tangut word, not a Chinese reading.

The surrounding Tangut words show how the sentence uses it; a one-word gloss cannot settle a whole passage.

Why was the Tangut script created?

It helped build the Western Xia state. The Tangut script was created in 1036 under Emperor Li Yuanhao. Its aims included producing a Tangut collection of Buddhist scriptures and marking an identity distinct from the neighboring Song dynasty in China. The Khitan people nearby had set an earlier example with a state script of their own.

Tangut writing also carried translations of Chinese works, including foundational Confucian books, encyclopedias, military manuals, and literature. Manuscripts from the ruined city of Khara-Khoto show Tangut writing in use around the twelfth century. Tangut character shapes were visually influenced by Chinese writing.

What should I make of 𗴨 sent alone?

Treat it as a character sample until context arrives. Ask what Tangut text it comes from, or request a translation, before treating “branch” as the sender’s intended message.