BERKELEY BUDDHIST TEMPLE … What? And Why Do We Do That? How does one receive a Buddhist name "Homyo"? In the Hongwanji tradition, the Monshu confers Buddhist names on all members, however since it is not possible for him to confer names on all followers throughout Japan and the world, he may designate representatives to act on his behalf in the presentation of Buddhist names. Here in the BCA, the Bishop is designated as the official representative of the Monshu to present Buddhist names. What is the difference between "Homyo" and "Kaimyo" (cai-myoe)? The difference is in the meaning of the term itself. "Ho-myo" means "Dharma (Ho) name (myo)" and "Kai-myo" means "Precept (Kai) name (myo)". Since we do not have precepts in Shin Buddhism, our Buddhist names are called Dharma names. Once you receive a Buddhist name, you usually keep it for life and do not receive a new name each time the opportunity arises. The "Kaimyo" is usually given to Buddhists of other denominations when they make a vow to observe a number of precepts, hence the term "kai (precepts) myo (name)". In the Jodo Shinshu tradition, Buddhist names all begin with the term "Shaku" or "Shakuni" to signify that we are all disciples of Shakyamuni Buddha. The term "Shaku" is used for males and "Shakuni" is used for females and are made up of usually two Chinese characters (kanji) to form the word or meaning. For example, a Shin Buddhist "Dharma name" would be Shaku Kensho or Shakuni Kensho. What is an "Ingo" (iine-goh)? For those members who have dedicated their lives for the betterment of the temple and our sangha, the Hongwanji headquarters temple will confer a special "honorary" Buddhist name to a deceased individual at the time of their funeral/memorial service. Here in the BCA, a local temple may request an "ingo" for a member by contacting the BCA Headquarters which presents the "ingo" name on behalf of the Hongwanji here in the USA. … 2