359 Best Monk Names for Creative and Spiritual Inspiration

Choosing the right name can add depth and meaning to any story, character, or even spiritual practice. Monk names, often tied to virtues, wisdom, and cultural traditions, are a perfect example of names that carry both simplicity and significance. Whether you’re inspired by Buddhist philosophy, Christian devotion, or unique Asian traditions, these names resonate with calmness and strength.

From historical figures to creative ideas for modern characters, exploring this list of monk names might spark your imagination or simply deepen your appreciation for the power of names. Let’s dive into some inspiring options from around the world!

Female Monk Names

Monastic traditions, across cultures and religions, have included inspiring women who embody wisdom, compassion, and dedication. Female monk names often reflect virtues, spiritual aspirations, or serene natural elements. Whether you’re seeking a name with historical significance or one for a fictional character, these names bring a sense of peace and purpose. Here’s a list of beautiful female monk names, each with a brief explanation:

1. Amala – Sanskrit for “pure,” symbolizing clarity and virtue.
2. Serena – Latin for “calm,” reflecting tranquility and inner peace.
3. Meera – A devotee of Krishna, symbolizing love and devotion.
4. Kannon – Japanese name for the bodhisattva of compassion.
5. Clara – Latin for “clear,” often associated with Saint Clare of Assisi.
6. Soma – A Sanskrit name meaning “moon,” symbolizing serenity.
7. Hilda – Inspired by Saint Hilda of Whitby, a wise abbess.
8. Yuna – Japanese name meaning “kindness” or “gentle.”
9. Asha – Sanskrit for “hope,” symbolizing optimism and faith.
10. Sophia – Greek for “wisdom,” a virtue valued in monastic life.
11. Maitreyi – Sanskrit for “friendship,” a name from Vedic texts.
12. Isola – Latin for “island,” evoking solitude and peace.
13. Rinzen – Tibetan for “holder of wisdom,” emphasizing spiritual insight.
14. Celeste – Latin for “heavenly,” symbolizing divine connection.
15. Samara – Arabic for “protected by God,” reflecting faith and trust.
16. Aya – Japanese for “color” or “design,” evoking creative harmony.
17. Elysia – Derived from the Elysian Fields, representing spiritual paradise.
18. Aruna – Sanskrit for “dawn,” symbolizing renewal and enlightenment.
19. Theresa – Inspired by Saint Teresa, known for devotion and simplicity.
20. Lhamo – Tibetan for “goddess,” reflecting spiritual beauty.
21. Iona – Associated with the sacred Scottish island, a center of monastic life.
22. Zohra – Arabic for “blossom,” representing growth and purity.
23. Leona – Latin for “lioness,” symbolizing courage and leadership.
24. Vashti – Persian for “excellent,” reflecting dignity and strength.
25. Yamuna – Named after the sacred Indian river, symbolizing purification.
26. Daya – Sanskrit for “compassion,” a central virtue in monastic life.

Male Monk Names

Monk names for men often reflect virtues such as strength, wisdom, and humility. Many are inspired by religious traditions, historical figures, or symbolic elements from nature and spirituality. These names are perfect for characters or individuals seeking a meaningful identity.

1. Francis – Inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, symbolizing peace and simplicity.
2. Zenith – A name meaning “the peak,” symbolizing spiritual elevation.
3. Dhyan – Sanskrit for “meditation,” a core practice in monastic life.
4. Aloysius – Latin for “famous warrior,” often associated with Saint Aloysius Gonzaga.
5. Ezekiel – Hebrew for “God strengthens,” a biblical name with spiritual depth.
6. Thaddeus – A name meaning “heart” or “praise,” reflecting devotion.
7. Rohan – Sanskrit for “ascending,” symbolizing spiritual growth.
8. Kelsang – Tibetan for “good fortune,” commonly used among monks.
9. Isaac – Hebrew for “laughter,” representing joy and faith.
10. Leopold – Germanic for “bold people,” reflecting courage and leadership.
11. Anselm – A name meaning “God’s protection,” associated with Saint Anselm.
12. Tashi – Tibetan for “auspicious,” symbolizing blessings and harmony.
13. Zeke – A modern, simplified form of Ezekiel, ideal for a contemporary monk name.
14. Raphael – Hebrew for “God heals,” a name with spiritual significance.
15. Dominic – Latin for “belonging to God,” reflecting a life of service.
16. Arav – Sanskrit for “peaceful,” symbolizing calm and inner balance.
17. Laurent – French for “laurel,” a symbol of victory and achievement.
18. Simeon – Biblical name meaning “heard,” reflecting prayer and devotion.
19. Finnian – Irish for “fair,” symbolizing purity and simplicity.
20. Elio – Italian for “sun,” representing light and wisdom.
21. Pascal – Derived from “Passover,” symbolizing renewal and rebirth.
22. Ravi – Sanskrit for “sun,” symbolizing life and enlightenment.
23. Cassian – Inspired by Saint Cassian, an early Christian monk and theologian.
24. Niko – Greek for “victory,” symbolizing triumph over worldly desires.
25. Benedict – Latin for “blessed,” inspired by Saint Benedict, the father of Western monasticism.
26. Amitayus – Sanskrit for “infinite life,” symbolizing eternal wisdom.

Awesome Monk Names

Awesome monk names stand out for their uniqueness and meaningful resonance. These names often combine elements of power, serenity, and individuality.

1. Zephyrion – Evoking a gentle yet powerful wind, symbolizing movement and flow.
2. Avalon – A mystical island symbolizing peace and healing.
3. Eldan – Meaning “tree of life,” symbolizing growth and strength.
4. Solan – Suggesting a sunlit and serene monk.
5. Aurelius – Latin for “golden,” symbolizing purity and value.
6. Vayu – Sanskrit for “wind,” a vital life force.
7. Orionis – Inspired by the stars, symbolizing cosmic connection.
8. Saelin – A unique name suggesting serenity and harmony.
9. Zorion – Basque for “happiness,” symbolizing joy and fulfillment.
10. Cyprian – A name tied to Saint Cyprian, symbolizing transformation.
11. Arianos – Meaning “pure,” an awesome name for a spiritual guide.
12. Indra – A Vedic deity name, symbolizing power and protection.
13. Aris – Greek for “best,” symbolizing excellence.
14. Kaelion – A blend of ancient and modern, evoking wisdom.
15. Nirvan – Sanskrit for “liberation,” a profound name.
16. Osiris – Egyptian god of rebirth, symbolizing renewal.
17. Zenithal – Related to the peak or highest point, symbolizing spiritual elevation.
18. Raviel – Suggesting a radiant and otherworldly presence.
19. Esharion – A creative name symbolizing inner fire and vision.
20. Lumos – Latin for “light,” reflecting spiritual clarity.
21. Noriah – A name inspired by flowing water and tranquility.
22. Havenous – Symbolizing a place of peace and safety.
23. Torin – Meaning “chief” or “leader,” evoking strength.
24. Solis – Latin for “sun,” symbolizing life and enlightenment.
25. Briarion – Evoking resilience and beauty amid challenges.
26. Eryndor – A mystical name suggesting a spiritual journey.
27. Calyx – Symbolizing a protective structure, like a spiritual guardian.

Cool Monk Names

Cool monk names strike the perfect balance between simplicity and style. These names exude modern appeal while maintaining spiritual undertones.

1. Zorin – Sleek and mysterious, symbolizing clarity.
2. Draven – Edgy yet grounded, evoking strength.
3. Elric – A noble and cool name for a spiritual figure.
4. Kairos – Greek for “opportune moment,” symbolizing awareness.
5. Taranis – A Celtic god of thunder, representing power and energy.
6. Silvan – Latin for “forest,” symbolizing serenity.
7. Kyrin – A fresh, modern take with ancient roots.
8. Haze – Evoking mystery and calm.
9. Veyron – Suggesting motion and fluidity.
10. Riven – Sharp and cool, symbolizing clarity and strength.
11. Aven – A simple and elegant name.
12. Thalos – Cool and unique, evoking water and peace.
13. Joren – Meaning “farmer,” symbolizing humility and growth.
14. Aelius – Latin for “sunlight,” a luminous choice.
15. Cashel – Meaning “stone fortress,” symbolizing stability.
16. Ryker – Strong and modern, symbolizing determination.
17. Lyric – Melodic and cool, symbolizing harmony.
18. Rion – A short, sleek name meaning “king.”
19. Cypress – Symbolizing endurance and immortality.
20. Eryx – A bold and modern name.
21. Finnick – Lighthearted and cool, symbolizing energy.
22. Nexus – Representing connection and purpose.
23. Voss – Modern and strong, evoking individuality.
24. Ardyn – Mystical and smooth, perfect for a Zen character.
25. Cairo – Exotic and modern, symbolizing enlightenment.
26. Lorien – Mystical yet approachable, from fantasy tradition.
27. Rivenal – A fresh twist on an ancient-sounding name.
28. Zephyr – A timelessly cool name, symbolizing wind and freedom.
29. Kendry – Modern and sleek, perfect for a monk character.
30. Laziel – Evoking light and mystery.

Clever Monk Names

Clever monk names play with words, meanings, or unexpected associations, adding personality and uniqueness to any monk figure.

1. Meditashi – A play on “meditation” and “Tashi,” symbolizing peace.
2. Zenobi – A clever twist combining “Zen” and “obi” (belt in martial arts).
3. Reflector – A symbolic name for self-awareness and clarity.
4. Ashcend – A blend of “ash” and “ascend,” symbolizing rebirth and growth.
5. Benedight – A clever twist on “Benedict,” meaning “blessed light.”
6. Stillius – A play on “stillness,” reflecting calm and focus.
7. Chronosoul – Combining time (Chronos) and soul, symbolizing timeless wisdom.
8. Serenith – A blend of “serenity” and “Zenith,” symbolizing calm at the peak.
9. Solmist – Combining “solace” and “mist,” evoking quiet comfort.
10. Harmonius – A clever take on “harmony,” reflecting balance and peace.
11. Pathfinder – Representing one who guides others on the spiritual journey.
12. Auraion – Combining “aura” and “lion,” symbolizing presence and courage.
13. Equibrium – A play on “equilibrium,” symbolizing balance and calm.
14. Shadewind – Evoking a mysterious, flowing presence.
15. Glintzen – Combining “glint” and “Zen,” symbolizing quiet brilliance.
16. Soulstice – A creative take on “soul” and “solstice,” symbolizing renewal.
17. Havenarch – A blend of “haven” and “arch,” symbolizing protection and transition.
18. Omnis – Latin-inspired, meaning “all-encompassing.”
19. Wispen – A clever twist on “wispy” and “Zen.”
20. Vowen – A blend of “vow” and “woven,” symbolizing commitment and unity.
21. Mystara – A mystical and intriguing name.
22. Lightraveler – Symbolizing spiritual and literal journeys.
23. Starpath – Reflecting celestial guidance.
24. Lumether – Combining “luminous” and “ether,” evoking glowing spirituality.
25. Horizonis – Cleverly combining “horizon” and “Zen.”
26. Pondera – From “ponder,” symbolizing reflection and thoughtfulness.
27. Solwyn – A blend of “sol” and “wind,” symbolizing lightness and grace.
28. Mindriven – Representing a mind-focused monk.
29. Zephyros – A play on “Zephyr,” adding a clever flair.
30. Chantus – From “chant,” symbolizing prayer and meditation.

Funny Monk Names

Humor can make monk names lighthearted and unforgettable. These playful names add charm to characters or bring a smile in any context.

1. Monk-E Business – A pun on “monkey business,” perfect for a cheeky monk.
2. Meditasian – A pun on meditation and Asian roots.
3. Friar Chuckles – For a monk who’s always laughing.
4. Bald Sage – A playful nod to the traditional bald monk look.
5. Kung-Fool – For a clumsy monk inspired by martial arts.
6. Zen D’Man – A humorous twist on “the man of Zen.”
7. Silent Bob – For a monk known for his vows of silence.
8. Belly Laugh Lama – A monk who spreads joy with humor.
9. Guru Giggles – Always finding humor in enlightenment.
10. Chantastic – A monk who loves chanting and puns.
11. Shaolin Showoff – For a flashy martial monk.
12. Hooded Humorist – A monk with a knack for jokes.
13. Om Nom Nom – For a monk who loves meditative snacks.
14. Brother Boo-Boo – A clumsy yet lovable monk.
15. Punny Pilgrim – Always making spiritual puns.
16. Abbot of Absurdity – A monk with a sense of comedic irony.
17. Chuckle Chan – Martial arts and humor combined.
18. Pranksha – A play on “prank” and Sanskrit names.
19. Mirthful Monk – Spreading joy and laughter.
20. Jester of the Lotus – A playful name for a monk in the lotus position.
21. Laughing Lama – Inspired by contagious laughter.
22. Monk MacBanter – Known for witty remarks.
23. Enlightened Jokester – Humor meets spiritual wisdom.
24. Shaolin Clown – Adding fun to martial arts discipline.
25. Giggling Guru – Enlightenment with a sense of humor.
26. Hoodwink the Monk – A playful monk always pulling pranks.
27. Zen and Tonic – A fun twist on a relaxing practice.
28. Buddhaful Belly – A cheerful, rotund monk.
29. Om Gosh – A playful monk name full of surprise.
30. Vow of Jest – For a monk who keeps laughter sacred.

Famous Monk Names

Famous monks from history, literature, and media have inspired countless stories and traditions. These names carry a legacy of wisdom and devotion.

1. Bodhidharma – Founder of Zen Buddhism and martial arts legend.
2. Saint Benedict – Creator of the Benedictine Order.
3. Thomas Merton – A modern Trappist monk and spiritual writer.
4. Ajahn Chah – A revered Thai Buddhist meditation master.
5. Xuanzang – A legendary Chinese monk who brought Buddhist scriptures from India.
6. Padmasambhava – The monk who introduced Buddhism to Tibet.
7. Saint Francis – The monk renowned for his love of nature and simplicity.
8. Dalai Lama – The spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.
9. Saint Anthony – The founder of Christian monasticism.
10. Shunryu Suzuki – Popularized Zen Buddhism in the West.
11. Saint Bernard – Known for his theological writings and piety.
12. Anagarika Dharmapala – A key figure in the revival of Buddhism in India.
13. Nichiren – Founder of Nichiren Buddhism.
14. Saint Dominic – Founder of the Dominican Order.
15. Thich Nhat Hanh – A global peace advocate and Zen master.
16. Gregory the Great – A monk who became pope, promoting monasticism.
17. Hakuin Ekaku – A pivotal figure in revitalizing Rinzai Zen Buddhism.
18. Saint Boniface – Known for spreading Christianity in Europe.
19. Santideva – An Indian monk known for his teachings on compassion.
20. Saint Isaac – A revered monk in Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
21. Gampopa – A Tibetan monk and founder of the Kagyu school.
22. Saint John of the Cross – A mystic and poet of Christian spirituality.
23. Pema Chodron – A renowned Buddhist nun and teacher.
24. Saint Clare – Founder of the Poor Clares, a Franciscan order.
25. Ajahn Sumedho – A prominent Western Buddhist monk.
26. Saint Theresa of Ávila – Known for her mystical writings.
27. Saint Columba – An Irish monk who spread Christianity in Scotland.

Buddhist Monk Names

Buddhist monk names often reflect virtues, enlightenment, and cultural heritage, providing insight into their spiritual journey.

1. Tenzin – Tibetan for “holder of teachings.”
2. Pema – Meaning “lotus,” symbolizing purity.
3. Karma – Sanskrit for “action,” reflecting cause and effect.
4. Siddhartha – The Buddha’s given name, meaning “one who has attained his goal.”
5. Dhamma – Pali for “truth” or “law.”
6. Ashoka – A historical emperor turned Buddhist monk.
7. Bodhi – Sanskrit for “awakening.”
8. Chandra – Sanskrit for “moon,” symbolizing illumination.
9. Ananda – A close disciple of the Buddha, meaning “bliss.”
10. Sangha – Referring to the monastic community.
11. Padma – Meaning “lotus,” symbolizing spiritual growth.
12. Rinpoche – Tibetan for “precious one.”
13. Lama – A teacher in Tibetan Buddhism.
14. Maitreya – The future Buddha, symbolizing love and kindness.
15. Shantideva – A monk known for his teachings on compassion.
16. Sogen – Japanese for “origin,” reflecting Zen philosophy.
17. Hui Neng – Sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism.
18. Ajahn – Thai for “teacher.”
19. Dogen – A Japanese monk who founded Soto Zen.
20. Ryokan – A Zen monk known for his poetry.
21. Milarepa – A Tibetan monk and poet.
22. Thich – A Vietnamese monk name prefix, meaning “clan.”
23. Yongjia – A Chinese monk famous for his writings on Zen.
24. Hakuin – Revitalized Rinzai Zen in Japan.
25. Lotus – Symbolic of spiritual purity.
26. Kensho – A Zen term for “seeing one’s true nature.”
27. Dharmapala – A name meaning “protector of the Dharma.”
28. Tsongkhapa – Founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.
29. Buddhananda – Sanskrit for “joy of the Buddha.”
30. Sariputra – One of the Buddha’s foremost disciples.

Catholic Monk Names

Catholic monk names often stem from saints, Latin roots, and biblical inspirations. These names are rich in spiritual meaning.

1. Anthony – Patron saint of lost things and monastic hermits.
2. Thomas – Inspired by Saint Thomas Aquinas, a renowned theologian.
3. Bernard – Known for devotion and theological contributions.
4. Gregory – Pope Gregory the Great, promoting monasticism.
5. Ambrose – A bishop and influential monk.
6. Cyril – Known for spreading Christianity.
7. Boniface – Apostle of Germany and missionary monk.
8. Stephen – First Christian martyr, symbolizing courage.
9. Columba – An Irish missionary monk.
10. Patrick – Famous for spreading Christianity in Ireland.
11. Peter – Foundation of the Christian Church.
12. Paul – A missionary monk known for his writings.
13. John – Inspired by Saint John of the Cross, a mystic and poet.
14. Matthew – The apostle and gospel writer.
15. Luke – A gospel writer and physician.
16. Mark – One of the four gospel authors.
17. Augustine – Known for his profound theological writings.
18. Jerome – Translator of the Bible into Latin.
19. Leo – Pope Leo the Great, a key defender of the faith.
20. Ambrosius – Latin version of Ambrose, meaning “immortal.”
21. Fabian – A pope and martyr in early Christianity.
22. Valerian – A martyr and symbol of faith.
23. Marcellus – A pope and saint, symbolizing leadership.
24. Linus – The second pope after Saint Peter.

Christian Monk Names

Christian monk names are deeply rooted in biblical traditions, saintly virtues, and the Latin heritage of the church. These names often represent devotion, humility, and wisdom.

1. Andrew – A biblical name meaning “manly” and inspired by the apostle.
2. Clement – A name meaning “merciful,” inspired by Pope Clement I.
3. Sylvester – Symbolizing the forest, inspired by Pope Sylvester I.
4. Titus – A biblical figure known for spreading Christianity.
5. Jeremiah – A prophet’s name meaning “exalted by God.”
6. Ephraim – A biblical name meaning “fruitful.”
7. Barnabas – Known as a companion of Paul, meaning “son of encouragement.”
8. Abel – A name meaning “breath,” inspired by the biblical figure.
9. Matthias – Chosen as the apostle to replace Judas.
10. Theophilus – A biblical name meaning “friend of God.”
11. Ignatius – Inspired by Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.
12. Valens – A name meaning “strong,” symbolizing resilience.
13. Noah – Biblical figure known for his faith and obedience.
14. Crispin – Inspired by Saint Crispin, the patron of shoemakers.
15. Markus – A variation of Mark, meaning “dedicated to Mars.”
16. Philemon – A name meaning “affectionate,” inspired by the biblical letter.
17. Zechariah – A prophet’s name meaning “God remembers.”
18. Lucius – A saintly name meaning “light.”
19. Timothy – A companion of Paul, symbolizing faithfulness.
20. Victor – Meaning “conqueror,” representing spiritual victory.
21. Cyrus – A biblical and saintly name symbolizing leadership.
22. Jude – Inspired by Saint Jude, the patron saint of desperate causes.
23. Eustace – A name meaning “fruitful,” associated with early Christian martyrs.
24. Isidore – Inspired by Saint Isidore, the patron saint of farmers.
25. Quentin – A name meaning “fifth,” tied to Christian traditions.
26. Romanus – A saintly name meaning “citizen of Rome.”

Chinese Monk Names

Chinese monk names often carry profound spiritual and philosophical meanings, reflecting harmony, wisdom, and enlightenment.

1. Zhiyi – Founder of the Tiantai school of Buddhism, meaning “wisdom.”
2. Fazang – A monk known for his teachings, meaning “treasury of Dharma.”
3. Huineng – The sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism, meaning “great ability.”
4. Daoxuan – A Tang dynasty monk, meaning “profound way.”
5. Zhaozhou – A Zen master known for his teachings, meaning “illuminated state.”
6. Yixing – A monk and astronomer, meaning “star reflection.”
7. Shandao – A monk known for his devotion to Pure Land Buddhism.
8. Miaoyun – Meaning “wonderful cloud,” symbolizing purity.
9. Zongmi – A Chan master, meaning “ancestral clarity.”
10. Hongzhi – A Zen master, meaning “vast wisdom.”
11. Yunmen – A Zen master, meaning “cloud gate.”
12. Dao’an – A scholar monk, meaning “peaceful way.”
13. Weijie – Meaning “complete understanding,” reflecting wisdom.
14. Fayin – Meaning “seal of Dharma,” symbolizing truth.
15. Chengguan – A Tang dynasty monk, meaning “clear view.”
16. Guifeng – A Zen master, meaning “precious peak.”
17. Mingzhao – Meaning “bright illumination,” symbolizing enlightenment.
18. Huilin – A Buddhist lexicographer, meaning “forest of wisdom.”
19. Zhanran – Meaning “perfect reality,” reflecting truth.
20. Qingyuan – A Zen monk, meaning “clear source.”
21. Wuzhu – Meaning “no attachment,” reflecting detachment.
22. Jiashan – A Zen master, meaning “family mountain.”
23. Zhulin – Meaning “bamboo forest,” symbolizing resilience.
24. Fuhai – Meaning “sea of blessings,” symbolizing abundance.
25. Lingyun – Meaning “spiritual cloud,” reflecting transcendence.
26. Dahui – A Zen master, meaning “great wisdom.”
27. Huiguo – A Tang dynasty monk, meaning “return to the country.”
28. Changlu – A Zen monk, meaning “eternal dew.”

Japanese Monk Names

Japanese monk names are often associated with Zen, simplicity, and natural harmony, embodying spiritual and philosophical ideals.

1. Kukai – Founder of Shingon Buddhism, meaning “sky and sea.”
2. Eihei – Founder of Eiheiji Temple, meaning “eternal peace.”
3. Myoe – A monk known for his devotion, meaning “bright enlightenment.”
4. Sesshin – Meaning “touching the heart-mind,” reflecting meditation.
5. Kaizan – A Zen monk, meaning “open mountain.”
6. Shunryu – A Zen monk who brought Zen to America, meaning “spring dragon.”
7. Zenji – A title meaning “Zen master.”
8. Hojo – Meaning “treasury of Dharma,” reflecting wisdom.
9. Senzaki – A Zen master, meaning “mountain cape.”
10. Gyoki – An early monk known for social welfare, meaning “justice.”
11. Fukan – Meaning “universal view,” reflecting clarity.
12. Sojun – A Zen master, meaning “genuine Zen.”
13. Taisen – Meaning “great meditation,” reflecting mastery.
14. Shingyo – Meaning “faith practice,” reflecting dedication.
15. Chogen – A monk who rebuilt temples, meaning “correct origin.”
16. Koho – Meaning “light treasure,” symbolizing spiritual value.
17. Eshin – Meaning “pure heart,” reflecting compassion.
18. Bodai – Meaning “enlightenment,” symbolizing spiritual awakening.
19. Renpo – Meaning “lotus treasure,” reflecting purity.
20. Eido – Meaning “way of eternal enlightenment.”
21. Jogen – Meaning “root of purity,” symbolizing clarity.
22. Shosei – Meaning “rising life,” reflecting renewal.
23. Kanso – Meaning “simplicity,” reflecting Zen ideals.
24. Ryoen – Meaning “clear circle,” symbolizing harmony.
25. Kosen – Meaning “bright Zen,” reflecting illumination.
26. Jiko – Meaning “self-awareness,” reflecting mindfulness.
27. Tetsugen – Meaning “iron eye,” symbolizing strength and vision.

Thai Monk Names

Thai monk names are often derived from Pali and Sanskrit, reflecting Theravada Buddhist principles of simplicity, compassion, and enlightenment.

1. Ajahn Mun – A revered meditation master, meaning “teacher Mun.”
2. Phra Dhammakaya – Referring to the “truth body” of enlightenment.
3. Phra Panya – Meaning “monk of wisdom.”
4. Luang Por – A respectful term for senior monks, meaning “venerable father.”
5. Phra Keow – Meaning “emerald monk,” symbolizing purity.
6. Panya Tissa – Meaning “master of wisdom.”
7. Phra Somdet – Meaning “monk of supreme status.”
8. Boonchuay – A Thai monk name meaning “merit builder.”
9. Phra Pathom – Referring to the “first monk,” symbolizing beginnings.
10. Phra Maha – A title for monks with advanced knowledge, meaning “great monk.”
11. Phra Khru – Meaning “teacher monk.”
12. Phra Ajaan – A Thai term for “respected teacher.”
13. Phra Ananda – Referring to the Buddha’s disciple, meaning “bliss.”
14. Dhammachayo – Meaning “one who walks the path of Dharma.”
15. Phra Sangha – Referring to the monastic community.
16. Boonraksa – Meaning “merit protector.”
17. Phra Suriya – Meaning “monk of the sun,” symbolizing enlightenment.
18. Vimuttinanda – Meaning “delight in liberation.”
19. Phra Prasit – Meaning “monk of blessings.”
20. Phra Ratana – Meaning “jewel monk,” symbolizing precious teachings.
21. Phra Sirivisudhi – Meaning “monk of radiant purity.”
22. Buddhadasa – A Thai monk meaning “servant of the Buddha.”
23. Phra Aruno – Meaning “monk of dawn,” symbolizing renewal.
24. Phra Kanok – Meaning “gold monk,” symbolizing virtue.
25. Phra Sujato – Meaning “well-conducted monk.”
26. Phra Vipassana – Referring to insight meditation, meaning “monk of insight.”
27. Phra Thammiko – Meaning “righteous monk.”
28. Phra Devadatta – Meaning “heaven-gifted monk.”