Meaning: The character 支 (zhī) means 'branch' or 'support'. The origins of the Zhi surname are varied. One theory suggests it originates from the ancient state of Zhi during the Xia Dynasty, located in present-day Shaanxi Province. Another theory connects it to the descendants of 'branch sons' (庶子) in the Zhou Dynasty, who were non-eldest sons. Additionally, some claim the surname arose from the Hanization of ethnic minorities, such as the Tuoba clan of the Xianbei people, who adopted the surname Zhi.
Zhi Ruyu (支如玉)
A scholar and official from Jiashan, Zhejiang during the Ming Dynasty, known for his literary work 'Ban Na An Ji'.
Zhi Li (支立)
A scholar from Jiaxing, Zhejiang in the Ming Dynasty, known for his mastery of the Five Classics and service as a Hanlin Academy official.
Zhidun (支遁)
A prominent monk of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, skilled in calligraphy and poetry, known for his work 'On the Mystery of Immediate Color'.
'支' is a unique surname symbolizing 'branches' or 'support'. Its origins trace back to ancient states, noble lineage, or even ethnic transformations, making it a fascinating piece of Chinese cultural history.