Chang'e (CHANT ng-uh; Chinese: 嫦娥; pinyin: Cháng'é) is a name deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, belonging to the revered Moon goddess. Her name is composed of the characters Chang (嫦), a character that specifically references the goddess herself, and e (娥), meaning "beautiful" or "good" (see é). Originally, she was called Heng'e (姮娥; Héng'é), but the name was changed to avoid violating the naming taboo of Emperor Wen of Han (personal name Heng) during the 2nd century BC. This practice of changing common characters that appeared in an emperor's name was a customary mark of respect in imperial China. Etymology and Linguistic Background The first character of Chang'e's name uses a unique Chang that is seldom found outside her name, reinforcing her singular identity in Chinese mythology. The second character e is a common poetic element in female names, adding a connotation of grace and beauty. The original name Heng'e also had a similar structure, but the replacement of Heng with Chang created a novel meaningful compound that later became standard. Mythological Significance In Chinese mythology, Chang'e is the wife of the legendary archer Hou Yi. According to the most popular version of the myth, after Yi shot down nine of the ten suns to save the earth, he was rewarded with an elixir of immortality. Chang'e accidentally consumed the entire dose and then ascended to the Moon, where she has lived ever since with her pet, the Moon Rabbit (Yu Tu), in the Moon Palace (廣寒宮). Her story has been transmitted through numerous texts, with one of the earliest appearances found in the Guicang, a divination text from the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC), which records both Yi's feat of shooting the ten suns and Chang'e's ascent to the moon. It's worth noting that this early record predates the Han dynasty taboo on her original name. Notable Bearers and Modern Legacy Chang'e is widely revered in Chinese folk religion, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, making her one of the most enduring mythological figures in Chinese culture. In modern times, her name has been borrowed for the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program, known as the Chang'e Program, which has sent a series of lunar orbiters and rovers to the Moon. This naming continues the tradition of identifying the moon with the goddess. The related name Chang O is a variant transcription, while its composition reflects the same elements. Cultural Significance The Mid-Autumn Festival (or Moon Festival) is a major Chinese celebration centered on myths of Chang'e and the Moon. Offerings of mooncakes are made, and the festival celebrates reunion and the admiration of the full moon. Chang'e's story of sacrifice, beauty, and immortality has inspired countless works of literature, art, and modern media, further cementing her role as a prime figure of celestial femininity. Meaning: “beautiful Chang” (嫦 + 娥) Origin: Chinese mythological name Type: Given name (primarily feminine) Usage Regions: China, Chinese diaspora Name Taboo: Changed from Heng'e to avoid Han emperor's name