Meaning: The surname 湛 (Zhàn) is of ancient origin, with two primary sources. First, it traces back to the Xia Dynasty (2070–1600 BCE) and the descendants of Yu the Great, who were granted the fiefdom of Zhan. Second, it originates from the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE) when a minister named Zhan Zhong of the State of Lu adopted the surname 湛. The character 湛 means 'clear' or 'profound,' symbolizing depth and clarity.
Zhan Zhizhong (湛执中)
A Jinshi (successful candidate) of the Northern Song Dynasty, who served as the County Magistrate of Nandun.
Zhan Ziyun (湛子云)
A Ming dynasty scholar from Zengcheng, known as Hanqing or Handu, who achieved the title of Jieyuan in 1642 and chose not to serve after the dynasty's fall.
Zhan Ruoshui (湛若水)
a Ming dynasty philosopher who advocated for 'recognizing the principles of heaven in all things' and was a contemporary of Wang Yangming, known for works like 'The Collected Works of Ganquan'.
'湛' is a rare and ancient surname with roots in both the Xia and Zhou dynasties. It symbolizes clarity and depth, reflecting the profound history of its bearers.