https://kotobank.jp/word/%E4%BB%A4%E6%9C%88-660939
If we have to trace back even further, it can date back to the ancient Chinese classic, the Classic of Poetry, where it is being used as good/respectful:
https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E4%BB%A4%E9%97%BB%E4%BB%A4%E6%...