Find out how popular the first name Karuna has been for the last 45 years (from 1976 to 2020) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Karuna by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Karuna is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2020, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Karuna.

The history of the first name Karuna

The name Karuna has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language that served as the root of many modern South Asian languages. Karuna is derived from the Sanskrit word "karuṇā," which means compassion, mercy, or empathy. The name has been in use for centuries, dating back to ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts.

Karuna is a prominent concept in Buddhist philosophy, representing one of the four sublime states or virtues alongside loving-kindness, empathetic joy, and equanimity. The concept of Karuna emphasizes the cultivation of compassion towards all sentient beings, recognizing their suffering and striving to alleviate it. In Hindu philosophy, Karuna is also revered as a divine quality, embodied by various deities and spiritual figures.

The earliest recorded examples of the name Karuna can be found in ancient Hindu and Buddhist scriptures, such as the Upanishads and the Dharmasutras. One notable historical figure bearing the name was Karuna Shukla, a renowned Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 7th century CE. He made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and is credited with developing the concept of zero as a numerical value.

In the realm of Buddhism, Karuna has been a revered name. One prominent figure was Karuna Vajra, a renowned Buddhist teacher and scholar who lived in the 11th century CE in India. He played a crucial role in the transmission and preservation of Buddhist teachings and is celebrated for his vast knowledge and compassionate teachings.

Another historical figure named Karuna was Karuna Mitra, a Buddhist monk and scholar from the 12th century CE. He was known for his extensive travels throughout South and Southeast Asia, spreading the teachings of Buddhism and promoting intercultural understanding.

In more recent times, Karuna has been a popular name among individuals inspired by the spiritual and philosophical values it represents. Karuna Lewis, an American singer and songwriter born in 1983, has gained recognition for her soulful music and philanthropic efforts.

Karuna Ezara Parikh, an Indian-American actress and model born in 1981, has also made a name for herself in the entertainment industry, appearing in numerous films and television shows.

While the name Karuna has its roots in ancient South Asian cultures, its profound meaning and spiritual significance have resonated across different traditions and regions, making it a name that continues to inspire individuals worldwide.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Karuna was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Karuna, please contact us.

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