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.
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'.
Zhi Gao (支高)
a tribute scholar during the Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty, from Jiashan, Zhejiang.
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'.
'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.