The name Samatha is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit language, which is one of the oldest languages in the world and is closely tied to the ancient Indian culture and Hindu religion. The Sanskrit word "samatha" means "tranquility," "calmness," or "serenity," and it is often associated with the concept of achieving inner peace and mental stillness through meditation and spiritual practices.

In the Hindu tradition, Samatha is considered one of the two primary components of meditation, the other being Vipassana, which translates to "insight" or "clear seeing." Together, Samatha and Vipassana represent the balanced approach to spiritual development, where Samatha cultivates a state of calm concentration, while Vipassana develops wisdom and insight into the true nature of reality.

The name Samatha can be found in various ancient Hindu texts and scriptures, such as the Upanishads and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which are considered foundational works in the study of meditation and yoga. These texts often refer to Samatha as a key practice for attaining a state of mental equilibrium and preparing the mind for deeper spiritual exploration.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Samatha appears in the Pali Canon, a collection of Buddhist scriptures dating back to the 5th century BCE. In these texts, the term "samatha" is used to describe a state of concentrated calmness achieved through meditation practices.

Throughout history, several notable figures have been associated with the name Samatha or its variations. One such individual was Samatha Gautama, a renowned Buddhist teacher and philosopher who lived in the 6th century BCE and is often referred to as the "Father of Buddhism." He is credited with developing the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which form the foundation of Buddhist teachings.

Another notable figure was Samatha Devi, a Hindu mystic and saint who lived in the 16th century CE. She was known for her profound spiritual insights and her teachings on the importance of cultivating inner peace and compassion.

In the realm of literature, Samatha Mukhopadhyay was a renowned Bengali author and poet who lived from 1826 to 1904. Her works explored themes of spirituality, women's rights, and social reform, and she is considered a pioneer of modern Bengali literature.

Samatha Rajan was an Indian classical dancer and choreographer who lived from 1923 to 2010. She was instrumental in reviving and promoting the ancient Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam, and her contributions helped preserve this cultural heritage for future generations.

Samatha Rajagopal was an Indian social activist and environmentalist who lived from 1937 to 2017. She was deeply committed to protecting the natural environment and advocated for sustainable development practices, earning her recognition as a leading figure in India's environmental movement.