Lin
Lín
Lin (林) means 'forest' and symbolizes growth, abundance, and harmony with nature. It represents resilience, community, and the idea of many trees standing together as a strong collective.
Population Ranking
#17
Estimated Over 4 million people
Geographic Distribution
Guangdong, Zhejiang, Sichuan
Five Element Attribute
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
起源と歴史
The Lin surname originated from the descendants of Bi Gan, a loyal minister of the Shang Dynasty. After Bi Gan was executed, his son fled to the forest and adopted Lin as his surname. Another origin comes from the Lin (林) clan of the Zhou Dynasty.
Surname Evolution
The Lin surname originated from Bi Gan, a loyal minister of the Shang Dynasty. After Bi Gan was killed, his son escaped into a forest (林, meaning 'forest') and was given the surname Lin. The surname is particularly prominent in Fujian and Taiwan.
Commandery
Xihe Commandery (西河郡) — Modern-day Lishi area, Shanxi Province
Hall Title
西河堂 (Xihe Hall)
Ancestral Hall
Lin Clan Ancestral Hall in Putian, Fujian — One of the most important Lin clan halls, featuring exquisite Min-style architecture and ancient clan records.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
西河世泽，忠孝传家 — The Xihe heritage; loyalty and filial piety pass through generations.
Linという名の有名な人々
Lin Zexu (林则徐) — Qing Dynasty official who opposed the opium trade
Lin Huiyin (林徽因) — Renowned architect and poet of modern China
Lin Yutang (林语堂) — Influential writer and inventor of the Chinese typewriter