པདྨ།

Pema

unisexTibetanBuddhist

Pema is a Buddhist unisex name of Tibetan, from Sanskrit origin, meaning “Lotus”.

MeaningLotus
GenderUnisex
OriginTibetan, from Sanskrit
Written asཔདྨ།
PronunciationPEH-mah
TraditionBuddhist
Used inIndia, Nepal, Bhutan, China

Meaning and origin of Pema

Pema is the Tibetan form of Sanskrit padma, 'lotus'. In Buddhism the lotus represents purity and awakening rising from the mud of ordinary life. The name recalls Padmasambhava, known to Tibetans as Guru Rinpoche, who is credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet. It is used for both girls and boys. Well-known bearers include Jetsun Pema, Queen of Bhutan, and the American teacher Pema Chödrön.

Is Pema a Buddhist name?

Pema is a Buddhist name meaning lotus, a central symbol of purity and enlightenment, closely associated with Guru Rinpoche.

How popular is Pema?

Very common among Tibetans and in Bhutan, and used by some Western Buddhist families.

Gifts with the name Pema

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Spellings and variants of Pema

Names similar to Pema

More Buddhist unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Pema mean?

Pema means 'Lotus'. It is of Tibetan, from Sanskrit origin.

Is Pema a Buddhist name?

Pema is a Buddhist name meaning lotus, a central symbol of purity and enlightenment, closely associated with Guru Rinpoche.

How do you pronounce Pema?

Pema is pronounced PEH-mah.

Is Pema a boy or girl name?

Pema is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.