Lotus at Matihu Lake in Nankai University

The color of Nankai University is pale purple, also known as Nankai purple. Lotus is known as the “flower of the gentleman” because its flower and fruit bloom together beautifully and gracefully. The Ode to the Lotus Flower by Zhou Dunyi, a poet of the Song Dynasty, reveals a gentleman’s character-- How stainless it rises from its slimy bed! How modestly it reposes on the clear pool — an emblem of purity and truth! Symmetrically perfect, its subtle perfume is wafted far and wide, while there it rests in spotless state, something to be regarded reverently from a distance, and not be profaned by familiar approach. How stainless it rises from its slimy bed! How modestly it reposes on the clear pool — an emblem of purity and truth! These words show that although the lotus lives in the silt, it is still clean and graceful; although it is washed by water, it is still pure and neat. Symmetrically perfect, its subtle perfume is wafted far and wide, while there it rests in spotless state, something to be regarded reverently from a distance, and not be profaned by familiar approach. This sentence reflects the noble character of being the same outside and inside, integrity and honesty. As a result, the scent of the lotus can be spread a long distance. This is also the realm of life that Nankai people have always pursued. Because lotus purple reflects the gentle character of the Nankai people, the spirit of vigorousness, perseverance, and distinctive personality that has always been upheld and loved by the Nankai people, it is used as the school color of Nankai University. Some Nankai logos, such as school badges and school flags, are based on the tone of this color. The newly promulgated Articles of the Nankai University Constitution Article 84 makes explicit provisions for the school color.