LayarHijau – The historical drama Pursuit of Jade, starring Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei, has attracted attention since its premiere on March 6, 2026. The series is adapted from the novel 逐玉 (Zhú Yù / Pursuit of Jade) by writer Tuanzi Laixi. The novel was previously known under another title, 侯夫人与杀猪刀 (Hóu Fūrén Yǔ Shāzhūdāo / The Marchioness and the Butcher’s Knife).
The drama’s title itself has sparked curiosity among viewers. In Mandarin, the title is written as 逐玉, with the pinyin Zhú Yù. Its literal translation is “to pursue jade.” During the early stage of translation, the title was sometimes rendered in English as “Chasing Jade,” before the official international title Pursuit of Jade was chosen.
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In Indonesia, the streaming platform WeTV through WeTV Indonesia uses the local title “Mengejar Cinta” which literally means Chasing Love/ Pursuit of Love. The title emphasizes the romantic aspect of the story and is considered easier for Indonesian viewers to understand.
Literally, the character “逐” (zhú) means “to chase” or “to pursue,” while “玉” (yù) means “jade.” In traditional Chinese culture, jade has long symbolized something extremely precious—purity, virtue, honor, and noble character.
However, within the context of the novel and the drama, “jade” does not simply symbolize love. Many readers interpret “玉” in the title as referring to a person with exceptional inner value. In the story, the female lead Fan Changyu is portrayed as a strong woman from a butcher’s family. Despite her humble background, her courage, honesty, and determination make her someone who can metaphorically be described as “jade.”
Meanwhile, the male lead Xie Zheng begins his journey carrying the scars of the past and a desire for revenge. His encounter with Fan Changyu gradually changes his outlook on life, turning their shared journey from mere survival into a process of mutual growth and healing.
Because of this, many readers believe the title 逐玉 is not only about romantic pursuit. “Pursuing jade” in this story also reflects a deeper search—for values, honor, and someone truly precious in life.
The meaning is also closely tied to the characters’ life journeys. Fan Changyu, who comes from a modest background, must face a world far larger than the one she once knew. At the same time, Xie Zheng slowly rediscovers his purpose through the people he meets along the way.
The title is also often discussed in relation to the novel’s earlier name. The original title 侯夫人与杀猪刀 literally means “The Marchioness and the Butcher’s Knife,” highlighting the striking contrast between a humble background and the noble status eventually associated with the character.
For that reason, the “jade” in 逐玉 is often interpreted as a broader symbol: not only love, but also dignity, identity, and the kind of human connection that can change a person’s life.
