Meaning: The surname 林 originates from the Chinese character meaning 'forest' or 'grove,' symbolizing abundance and vitality. It primarily traces back to two lineages: one stems from the descendants of Bi Gan, a virtuous minister of the Shang Dynasty, who was killed by King Zhou. His son Jian fled to Changlin (present-day Weihui, Henan) and was granted the surname 林 by King Wu of Zhou. The other lineage comes from the descendants of Lin Kai, an illegitimate son of King Ping of Zhou, who lived in Linlu (present-day Linxian, Henan) and adopted the surname 林.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.16 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.147 place
Lin Shu (林枢)
A Ming Dynasty Jinshi from Fuzhou, Fujian, who served as the prefect of Nanxiong Prefecture.
Lin Shimin (林士敏)
A Ming Dynasty official from Fujian, known for his integrity and service in various governmental posts, author of 'Qin Bian Ji' and 'Kuang Lu Xiao Gao'.
Lin Ye (林晔)
An official of the Tang Dynasty, who passed the imperial examination and served as Sima of Cangzhou and Governor of Tongzhou.
'林' is a surname that evokes images of lush forests and thriving life. It’s rooted in ancient nobility and symbolizes resilience and prosperity. Famous figures with this name include poets, scholars, and modern entrepreneurs.