[Interpretation]

In Jinwen (Bronze Script), the character 張 (Zhang) depicts the shape of an arrow set upon a bowstring. This imagery leads to its extended meanings: to draw a bow, to string a bow, to capture, and to stretch or extend.

[Origin]

The surname originates from Hui, the grandson of the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi).

• The Inspiration: One night, Hui observed the Guxing (specifically the Huxia star cluster, consisting of nine stars located southeast of Sirius). Within this cluster, eight stars form the shape of a full bow, while one star resembles an arrow. These stars, located within the constellations Canis Major and Puppis, vividly resemble a drawn bow and arrow.

• The Contribution: Inspired by this celestial vision, Hui invented the bow and arrow. This was a monumental contribution during the transition into the patrilineal clan society.

• The Appointment: Because of his achievement, he was appointed as Gongzheng (the official in charge of supervising bow and arrow manufacturing) by Emperor Zhuanxu in the capital, Diqiu (present-day Puyang, Henan).

• The Surname: In honor of his office and invention, he was bestowed with the surname Zhang.