What to Write on a Chinese Tombstone
Chinese tombstones, also called bei (碑), carry deep meaning. They honor life, show respect, and keep family memory alive. Knowing what to write helps families express love in a proper way.
The Basic Parts of a Chinese Tombstone
A Chinese tombstone often includes:
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The name of the person (姓名)
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Birth and death dates (生卒年月)
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Titles or roles like “Beloved Father” or “Kind Mother” (慈母, 慈父)
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Words of respect such as “Forever Remembered” (永垂不朽)
Most tombstones follow this order, with the family name written first. This shows the person’s link to their family line.
Example: Mr. Li’s Tombstone
Mr. Li was a teacher from Fujian. When he passed away, his children wanted his stone to show his kindness. They wrote:
“慈父李明之墓” (The Tomb of Kind Father Li Ming)
“生于1950年，卒于2020年”
“桃李满天下” (His students are everywhere)
This phrase came from an old Chinese saying. It means his students were like blossoms spread across the world — a true mark of a teacher’s life.
Cultural Meaning
In Chinese culture, writing on a tombstone connects the living and the dead. Families believe words carved in stone carry spirit (shenqi). It also teaches younger generations to honor their roots.
A 2021 survey by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences found that over 85% of families keep traditional inscriptions when making new tombstones. This shows how deeply the custom still runs.
Choosing the Right Words
People today mix old and new ways. Some write in Chinese, others in English or both. Phrases like “Forever in Our Hearts” appear beside “永远怀念.”
When you write, focus on truth and feeling. A few simple words can hold more than long lines.
Tips for Families
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Keep the message short and clear.
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Use the person’s full name to show respect.
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Choose strong words that match their life.
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Ask elders for advice — they know old customs.
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Check spellng two or three times before carving.
Why It Matters
A tombstone is more than stone. It is a bridge between memory and history. The words we choose speak to the heart. They last for generations.