From a word perspective, 家（Jia） represents family, belonging and responsibility, while “榕” （Rong）not only refers to the banyan tree, but also embodies a broad and tolerant mind (Weijia Huang). In Chinese, Jia can be pronounced many different ways and take many different forms, but my parents chose the character “家” to symbolize the importance of family and their hope that I can excel in a big family. Therefore, my name not only carries the expectations of my parents, but also contains a deep cultural meaning.

The banyan tree is more than just a plant; it also carries far-reaching symbolism. In Chinese culture, the banyan tree is often associated with shelter, fortitude and wisdom (Fengde Huo). Its large, intertwined root system symbolizes the close-knit relationship between family members. Like the banyan tree, I hope I can provide shelter and support for my family while continuing to draw knowledge and nutrients to thrive.

When I was little, I didn’t fully understand why my parents embedded the expectation of family within my name. I come from a large family—my father has five sisters—but among all my relatives, I am the only one who carries the last name Hu. In Chinese culture, passing on the family name is of great significance, as it represents lineage and continuity. Because of this, my name also carries my grandfather’s hope that I will continue the family name. At first, I saw this as a burden, feeling the weight of an expectation I had no choice in. However, as I grew up within this family, my opinion changed. I gradually came to see this not as pressure, but as a meaningful responsibility—one that connects me to my heritage and gives me a sense of purpose.

A name is a symbol of a person's identity. It is not just a combination of symbols, but also carries the accumulation of culture and emotional support. Whenever I write or hear my name, I remind myself not to forget my roots, cherish my family ties, and strive to be a strong and responsible person. Just like the banyan tree being able to grow in different environments, I hope to keep my initial thought and keep moving forward no matter what challenges I face.

Works Cited

Huang, Weijia, and Dekuan Huang. "Why the character for 'family' has a pig inside a house." China Daily, 7 Oct. 2011, usa.chinadaily.com.cn/weekly/2011-10/07/content_13843121.htm.

Huo, Fengde, and Xiaomei Chen. "Soul of Banyan Tree: A Study on the Folk Culture of Banyan Tree Worship in Hainan." Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Science, vol. 8, no. 3, 2024, pp. 697-700. Hill Publishing Group, doi:10.26855/jhass.2024.03.025.

Watson, Rubie S. "Chinese Kinship Reconsidered: Anthropological Perspectives on Historical Research." The China Quarterly, no. 92, 1982, pp. 589–622.

Harbsmeier, Christoph. Language and Logic in Traditional China. Harvard University Press, 1998.