Meaning: The surname 阎 (Yán) originates from the Ji clan, a branch of the Zhou Dynasty's ruling family. It is derived from the place name 阎乡, where descendants of Kang Shu, a brother of King Wu of Zhou, were granted land. Some variations of the surname also come from少数民族 (minority ethnic groups) who adopted the name during historical assimilation.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.77 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.327 place
Yan Hao (阎灏)
An official during the Northern Song Dynasty, he passed the imperial examination in 1049 and served in various governmental posts, including as a Secretary and Erudite of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, ultimately becoming an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Works.
Yan Xiaozhong (阎孝忠)
a Northern Song dynasty official and medical scholar, known for compiling pediatric medical texts such as 'Xiao'er Yaozheng Zhenjue'.
Yan Xun (阎询)
A Song dynasty official renowned for his scholarship, who served in various positions including Salt and Iron Judge and was an envoy to the Khitan, passed away at the age of seventy-nine.
'阎' is a surname with deep roots in ancient Chinese nobility and mythology. It’s tied to the Zhou Dynasty and has connections to both royal lineage and the mystical underworld.