If you have a spiritual name, try to use it in your everyday life. Names are invocations. Each time a person says your name, it is a blessing for you and for them. Together, you invoke the wisdom virtues inherent in that name.

My name is somewhat hard for people to pronounce. But I have noticed that when a person says it correctly for the first time, there is a broad smile. It feels good! (more…)

From Buenos Aires, Argentina. . .

I would like to know how to get a spiritual name in
order to grow in my sadhana.

Spiritual names are generally given to students during initiations into spiritual lineages. (more…)

For some reason, this week several readers have asked about the meanings of “Shambhavi.” Let’s talk first about spiritual names in general. Why do we have them? What are they for? (more…)

The head of my lineage, Paramahamsa Satyananda Saraswati, says that sannyasins should be nameless. Names are only a matter of social convenience.

But he also sees spiritual names as catalysts. (more…)