a baptismal (zodiacal) or masbuta name, also known as malwasha, is a name given by a priest, as opposed to a legal name. Mandaeans have matronymic Mandaean names which are used in Mandaean rituals. A malwasha is linked with the mother's name and time of birth in order to protect the individual from their zodiac sign which is considered ominous. Buddhism All Buddhist denominations also practice this, with newly ordained Sangha members given new Buddhist names by their master or preceptors. Lay Buddhists (Upāsaka and Upāsikā) are also given Buddhist names during their Tisarana ceremony. Taoism All Taoist sects have similar practice like Chinese Buddhism, where all newly ordained Taoist priests or monks are given Taoist name related on their sect's lineage. Lay Taoists who participate in the initiation ceremony are also given Taoist name. Others Gaudiya Vaishnavism Members of ISKCON and some other Gaudiya Vaishnava organisations are given a "spiritual name" by their guru upon initiation. This name ends in "Das" or "Dasa" for men and "Dasi" for women (meaning "servant"). Wicca In Wicca, a craft name is often used. References External links Name change on religious conversion, UK Deed Poll Human names Religious practices