Explore the historical origins of Chinese surnames

Surname Story

Origin and History of the Surname 蹇

The surname “Jian” is quite unique and carries a rich historical background. According to historical records, the Jian family originated from an ancient Chinese state during the Zhou Dynasty called “Qin”. The ancestors of this family were said to be skilled horsemen and archers, hence the surname “Jian”, which means lame or slow in Chinese, might have been derived from the characteristic gait of their horses or possibly a nickname for a brave but cautious warrior.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the surname Jian. One such figure is Jian Zhou, a high-ranking official during the Tang Dynasty known for his wise governance and contributions to society. Another famous person with this surname is Jian Shanshan, a poet from the Song Dynasty who left behind beautiful verses that are still recited today.

These individuals not only made significant contributions to their respective fields but also left an indelible mark on Chinese history and culture. The Jian surname, though not as common as some others, represents a proud lineage with deep roots in Chinese tradition.