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Dhamma names?

Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2009 8:27 pm
by Lombardi4
Are dhamma names forbidden for lay Theravadins?

(How) can I get a dhamma name?

Re: Dhamma names?

Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2009 8:39 pm
by DNS
I don't think so. Anagarika Dharmapala had one and he was a lay man all his life until about the last year when he ordained.

His dying words were, "may I be re-born 25 more times so that I can spread the Buddha-Dhamma." :bow: :bow: :bow:

Not sure how you could do it, but I would check with a venerable if you want a formal ceremony; perhaps in conjunction with a formal refuge ceremony.

Re: Dhamma names?

Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2009 8:47 pm
by mikenz66
My impression is that it is uncommon for Theravadins to take Dhamma names unless they are ordained. However, some Western organisations do do this. But the whole thing of taking a Pali name is clearly a ('modern') post-Buddha's lifetime idea anyway. If it is inspiring to you, and doesn't cause any friction with the people you associate with, I don't see any problem.

Metta
Mike

Re: Dhamma names?

Posted: Fri Jul 17, 2009 12:11 am
by Cittasanto
I did it!

fare enough I roughly translated the meaning of my actual name and not for any real reason other than some anonimity, but I have at times found it useful (when I wasn't being as headful as I should be and noticed it myself etc) as a reminder for practice, something like a conversation David wants to say F*** Y** TOS*** and punch his lights out, Manapa would do this though!
helps keep the me on the internet the me I am off line. (for the most part)