Change of Name & other things
Question
What is the significance behind changing one's name upon spiritual rebirth? More specifically, since they pertain to the ego should names be given any significance be they worldly or spiritual? Many great sages and learned ones felt the need to change their worldly name to a more befitting "spiritual" name.
Regards,
Sahil
Answer
1. At the stage giving up a life of 'Bhoga' (sense enjoyment) to take up a life of 'Yoga' (Union with the truth), the Ego is still very alive. A change in name is only a psychological motivation & reminder that the 'earlier' person who was after the senses has been relinquished and a 'new' person who is out to realize the self alone has taken birth. It is used as a tool to stay committed to the new path, which will henceforth be the final path for that Jiva, until emancipation.
For this simple reason, some people who take to the path of the self change their 'Ashrama' (mode of life), attire, name etc.
2. There are also others who do none of the above, but simply pursue Sadhana alone, to realize the formless Lord. That is also acceptable. What matters is reaching the destination. The road taken varies from person to person and is not of much significance. Each pursues a path as willed by the Almighty, in his Leela (play).
ॐ तत् सत्
(That Supreme being is the absolute truth)