Origin and Meaning of Maitreya

The benevolent one or the friend

Origin: Sanskrit - Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Maitra', which means 'friend' or 'compassionate'. In Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is regarded as the future Buddha.

• Maitreya is a significant figure in Buddhist eschatology, believed to be the next Buddha who will come to Earth in the future, following the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama.
• The name is revered in various cultures influenced by Buddhism, such as Tibetan, Chinese, and Japanese, often featuring in their art and religious texts.
• Notable figures with this name include contemporary leaders and teachers within Buddhist communities, emphasizing the ideals of kindness and compassion.
• While not common as a name in most cultures, Maitreya has seen fluctuations in interest within spiritual and New Age communities.
• Variations of the name include Maitreya in Tiantai Buddhism and Metteya in Pali, showcasing different linguistic adaptations.