Do Monks Know How to Name? In traditional Chinese culture, monks are often portrayed as wise and learned individuals, with deep knowledge of religious teachings and the ways of the world. This reputation has led some to wonder if monks are also capable of naming things. The practice of naming, or giving names to people, places, and things, is a common human endeavor. We name our children, our pets, our cars, and even our businesses. Names are important because they help us identify and distinguish things from one another. In some cultures, naming is considered a sacred act, as it involves bestowing a special identity or meaning onto something. For example, in many African tribes, children are given names that reflect their personality traits, spiritual qualities, or the circumstances of their birth. In Buddhism, the act of naming is also significant, as it involves recognizing the true nature of things. In Buddhist teachings, everything is impermanent and constantly changing, and naming helps us see the many aspects and dimensions of reality. However, while monks may have a deep understanding of the significance of names, they are not necessarily experts in the practice of naming. Many monks are not trained in the art of linguistics or etymology, and may not have the same level of familiarity with different languages and cultures as others. That being said, there are some monks who have developed a reputation for their ability to name things. For example, in Japan, there is a monk named Purna who is renowned for his skills in naming temples and gardens. Ultimately, whether or not monks are good at naming things depends on the individual monk and their level of expertise. However, what is clear is that the act of naming plays an important role in many spiritual and cultural traditions, and is a skill that requires both knowledge and intuition.