Meaningful Chinese Names Inspired by Confucius' Analects (Lunyu)
The Analects (Lunyu), a collection of teachings by Confucius and his disciples, is a cornerstone of Chinese philosophy and culture. For over 2,000 years, its wisdom on ethics, governance, and personal conduct has shaped East Asian thought. Beyond philosophy, the Analects also inspires Chinese naming traditions. Many parents choose names from its verses to imbue their children with virtues celebrated by Confucius. Here, we introduce 20 beautiful names derived directly from the Analects, complete with their origins and symbolic meanings.
Names from the Lunyu
1. 志学 (Zhìxué)
Origin: “吾十有五而志于学。”
Meaning: “Determined to learn.” Reflects dedication to lifelong learning.
2. 思齐 (Sīqí)
Origin: “见贤思齐焉。”
Meaning: “Strive to equal the virtuous.” Encourages emulating moral excellence.
3. 敏行 (Mǐnxíng)
Origin: “君子欲讷于言而敏于行。”
Meaning: “Swift in action.” Values decisive and diligent conduct.
4. 安仁 (Ānrén)
Origin: “仁者安仁，知者利仁。”
Meaning: “Content in benevolence.” Celebrates inner peace through kindness.
5. 文彬 (Wénbīn)
Origin: “文质彬彬，然后君子。”
Meaning: “Cultured and refined.” Balances elegance with sincerity.
6. 弘毅 (Hóngyì)
Origin: “士不可以不弘毅，任重而道远。”
Meaning: “Broad and steadfast.” Symbolizes resilience and grand aspirations.
7. 乐山 (Lèshān)
Origin: “知者乐水，仁者乐山。”
Meaning: “Love for mountains.” Represents the stability and depth of a virtuous person.
8. 德邻 (Délín)
Origin: “德不孤，必有邻。”
Meaning: “Virtue attracts companions.” Highlights the power of moral integrity.
9. 博文 (Bówén)
Origin: “君子博学于文。”
Meaning: “Broad knowledge.” Encourages intellectual curiosity.
10. 成美 (Chéngměi)
Origin: “君子成人之美。”
Meaning: “Cultivate beauty.” Celebrates nurturing goodness in others.
11. 明远 (Míngyuǎn)
Origin: “登高必自卑，行远必自迩。”
Meaning: “Visionary.” Encourages humility and long-term perspective.
12. 友谅 (Yǒuliàng)
Origin: “友直，友谅，友多闻。”
Meaning: “Trustworthy friend.” Values honesty and reliability in relationships.
13. 怀德 (Huáidé)
Origin: “君子怀德，小人怀土。”
Meaning: “Cherish virtue.” Contrasts moral ideals with material desires.
14. 子善 (Zǐshàn)
Origin: “子欲善而民善矣。”
Meaning: “Aspiring to goodness.” Embodies leadership through ethical example.
15. 知新 (Zhīxīn)
Origin: “温故而知新。”
Meaning: “Innovate through tradition.” Balances heritage with progress.
16. 如松 (Rúsōng)
Origin: “岁寒，然后知松柏之后凋也。”
Meaning: “Strong as a pine.” Symbolizes endurance in adversity.
17. 君和 (Jūnhé)
Origin: “礼之用，和为贵。”
Meaning: “Harmony.” Prioritizes peace and balance.
18. 学思 (Xué sī)
Origin: “学而不思则罔，思而不学则殆。”
Meaning: “Learn and reflect.” Stresses the synergy of study and critical thinking.
19. 敏而 (Mǐn’ér)
Origin: “敏而好学，不耻下问。”
Meaning: “Diligent and inquisitive.” Praises humility in seeking knowledge.
20. 道远 (Dàoyuǎn)
Origin: “任重而道远。”
Meaning: “Long journey ahead.” Inspires perseverance in pursuing lofty goals.
Conclusion
These names, rooted in the Analects, carry profound meanings that transcend time. Whether you’re seeking a Chinese name for yourself, a child, or a character, these choices connect modern identity with ancient wisdom. By embracing virtues like kindness, resilience, and curiosity, they offer a timeless bridge to Confucian ideals.