Interpretation of the Hou (侯) Clan Totem

Definition of the Character: The original meaning of "侯" (Hou) is an archery target. The ancient form of the character was "矦," which depicts an arrow flying toward a target. Over time, this evolved to represent a high-ranking title, often translated as "Marquis."

Origin: 1. Cangjie, the legendary historian of the Yellow Emperor and the creator of Chinese characters, originally held the surname Hougang. A branch of his descendants lived in Yaxian (modern-day Baishui, Shaanxi) and simplified the name to Hou. 2. During the Spring and Autumn period, Duke Zhao of Jin (centered in modern-day Yicheng, Shanxi) enfeoffed his uncle, Chengshi, in Quwo, leading to a period of internal division. This conflict lasted until Duke Min of Jin was killed by Duke Wu of Quwo in 678 BC. His descendants fled to other states and adopted their ancestor's noble title, "Hou" (Marquis), as their surname. 3. Also during the Spring and Autumn period, Shu Duan, the younger brother of Duke Zhuang of Zheng, fled to Gong (modern-day Huixian, Henan) after a failed rebellion. After his death, Duke Zhuang bestowed the surname Hou upon Shu Duan's son, Gongzhong.

• Ancestral Founders: Cangjie, Duke Min of Jin (Jin Hou Min)

• Ancestral Homelands: Baishui (Shaanxi); Yicheng (Shanxi); Huixian (Henan)

• Prefectural Seats and Hall Names: Shanggu, Dantu, Henan; Jiuzhao Hall

• Current Rank / Population: 70th most common / Approx. 4.01 million

• Song Dynasty "Hundred Family Surnames" Rank: 230th

• Extant Genealogies: 70 volumes