Interpretation of the Ye Clan Totem 

[Definition] The original meaning of "Ye" (葉) is a leaf. In Bronze Inscriptions (Jinwen), the character resembles a tree with branches and leaves above and a root system below. The Shuowen Jiezi states: "Ye refers to the leaves of plants and trees." Etymologically, it is a phono-semantic compound character.

[Origin] During the Spring and Autumn period, Shen Yin Xu, the Left Minister of War for the State of Chu, died in battle against the army of the State of Wu. King Zhao of Chu subsequently enfeoffed Shen Yin Xu’s son, Shen Zhuliang, as the governor of Ye (Ye Yi Yin), granting him the land of Ye (south of present-day Ye County, Henan) for his sustenance. Since senior district officials in Chu were titled "Gong" (Duke), Shen Zhuliang became known as Ye Gong (the Duke of Ye). Ye Gong was known for his diligent governance and love for the people, as well as for his role in suppressing rebellions and saving the state from crisis. His descendants later adopted the name of the fief as their surname, forming the Ye clan.

• Ancestral Founder: Ye Gong Shen Zhuliang (also known as Ye Zigao)

• Ancestral Homeland: Ye County, Henan

• Prefectural Seats (Junwang) and Hall Names: Nanyang, Xiapi; Chongxin Hall, Foling Hall

• Current Ranking / Population: 41st / Approx. 6.32 million

• Song Dynasty "Hundred Family Surnames" Rank: 257th

• Extant Genealogical Records: 653 volumes