杏林

Xìng lín

Meanings

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Xìng lín

1.Xinglin District of Xiamen city (renamed Haicang 海沧区[Hǎi cāng Qū] in 2003)

xìng lín

1.forest of apricot trees
2.(fig.) honorific term for fine doctor (cf Dr Dong Feng 董奉[Dǒng Fèng], 3rd century AD, asked his patients to plant apricot trees instead of paying fees)

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Wiktionary

1.fine doctor; medical field
2.Xinglin Town (several townships in China)
3.Xinglin (a town in Fufeng, Baoji, Shaanxi, China)

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Etymology

From the story of the famed physician Dong Feng [3ʳᵈ c. CE], who refused to accept payments from his patients, and instead asked patients successfully cured of ailments to plant apricot trees. A forest of apricot trees came to surround his home as a testament to his skill.

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