Chinese · Culture & Society
圣旨聖旨
shèngzhǐ
Also written: shengzhi; imperial edict; emperor’s decree
An imperial edict or formal command issued in the emperor’s name.
Literal meaning
the sacred or august command
Cultural context
The form, delivery, and legal force of imperial commands varied across dynasties. Historical dramas often use shèngzhǐ as a visible symbol of sovereign authority entering a household or court.
How dramas use it
An edict may announce a marriage, appointment, punishment, promotion, exile, succession decision, confiscation, or order that instantly changes the characters’ available choices.
Usage & formality
Not every royal command is technically a shèngzhǐ, and dramas may simplify historical document categories. Imperial edict is the safest general translation.