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Buddhists/New Buddhist Name

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Expert: - 11/20/2007


Question
I am taking refuge in the three jewels at home after 9 years or studying and practicing Buddhism.  I am ready!  My question is this:  when I take refuge, should I choose a new Buddhist name?  If so, what types of names do I choose from...a Buddhist goddess or a name from another language?  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Angie,

Becoming a Buddhist is about changing mindset and living a harmless life.  It also depends on which tradition you are following.  I understand that some "sects" would require the adoption of a new name.  As for Theravada tradition, what one needs is to practise the Buddha's teachings to become a better and wiser person.  However if you wish to have a "Buddhist" name you can adopt one.  If you have contact with your teachers or monks, you can request them to choose a name for you.

Usually "Buddhist" names are in the language of the "sect".  You would have Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese, Pali, and what have you.  In Theravada tradition, it will be in Pali.  

Hope this helps.

justinchoo :-)

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Justin Choo

Expertise

When in doubt seek it out. All your questions will be answered, and you may not have to agree with the answers. Such is the beauty of Buddhism. You are free to decide. I follow the Theravada tradition, and have been studying Buddhism for more than 40 years. Please view my profile for more details. I have answered more than 1500 questions since joining this category. You may like to give me the honor to answer your question.

Experience

I was brought up in the 50's as a Buddhist. For the past 40 years I have read numerous books on Buddhism and listened to numerous talks on Buddhism by well-respected and learned monks and lay teachers. I conduct Buddhist classes for parents of Sunday School children in a Theravada Buddhist Temple. My teacher was the late Chief Reverend, The Ven. K Sri Dhammananda of The Brickfields Buddhist Mahavihara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. You can view the relevent website in memory of my revered late teacher @ http://www.ksridhammananda.com

Organizations
I am a life member of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia.

Publications
YOU ARE INVITED TO VISIT MY BLOG @ http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/ Published a book called "The Rainbow And The Treasure". It is a compilation of extracts from various sources to introduce Buddhism to beginners. (Currently out of print)

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Commerce And Administration, Victoria University Of Wellington, NZ.(1974)

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