Meaning: The surname 姜 originates from the ancient Emperor Yan (also known as Shennong), one of the legendary rulers of China. According to legend, Emperor Yan was born by the Jiang River (present-day Qishan County, Shaanxi), and thus adopted the surname 姜 ('Jiāng', meaning 'ginger' or 'river'). This surname also has historical significance through Jiang Ziya (also known as Grand Duke of Jiang), who assisted the Zhou Dynasty in its founding and was later enfeoffed as the Duke of Qi, establishing the Qi state whose descendants carried the surname 姜.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.55 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.32 place
Jiang Yingjia (姜应甲)
A Ming and Southern Ming dynasty official known for his integrity, who later became a monk and authored books.
Jiang Kui (姜夔)
A renowned Southern Song poet, lyricist, and musician, known for his refined and elegant ci poetry that significantly influenced later generations.
Jiang Zigao (姜子羔)
A Ming Dynasty official from Yuyao, Zhejiang, who served as a judge in Chengdu and as a minister in the Ministry of Rites, eventually becoming the Chief Minister of the Shaanxi Imperial Stud.
'姜' is a surname with deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back to the legendary Emperor Shennong and later associated with the founding of the Zhou Dynasty. It’s a name that carries the essence of ancient royalty and wisdom.