Yin Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Bristle (shān) Yan Kangxi stroke count: 9 Page 363, Entry 13 Pronounced yan (falling tone). According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to a refined scholar with literary talent, whom others speak of favorably. According to the Approaching Elegance (Erya), specifically the Interpretation of Teachings (Shixun), a refined scholar is called an yan. The commentary notes that this refers to a person whom others praise and speak of. The sub-commentary states that when a state has a refined scholar, people speak of his path and conduct. Book of Documents (Shangshu), in the section Taijia: Seek far and wide for outstanding and refined scholars. Book of Odes (Shijing), in the section Odes of Zheng: The refined scholar of the state. Also rhyming as jian (level tone), sounding like the word yan (level tone). In the Eulogy for Lord Lu by Lu Yun: The harmonious sound continues through the generations, the great refined scholars are not replaced. Clear reflections are below. Great orders are above.