Meaning: The surname 尼 (Ní) has multiple origins. One theory suggests it derives from the spread of Buddhism from ancient India, where some followers adopted '尼' as their surname to signify their devotion to Buddhism. Another theory posits that it originated from ancient Chinese official titles, such as '尼父' (a respectful term for a virtuous person), with descendants adopting the title as their surname. It may also be derived from the Hanization of surnames among ethnic minorities like the Manchu or Mongolian.
Nifahai (尼法海)
a Song Dynasty Buddhist nun, residing at Xizhu Temple in Pingjiang Prefecture, a disciple of the Zen master Shouyi.
Ni Jingzhi (尼净智)
A Buddhist monk of the Northern Song Dynasty, known as Hui Guang, and a disciple of Master Jingyin Facheng.
Nifa Deng (尼法灯)
a Song Dynasty monk of Jingju Temple in Wenzhou, known as Wuxiang, a disciple of Huìwēn Chan Master.
The surname 尼 is steeped in religious and cultural history, possibly linked to Buddhism or ancient Chinese titles. It reflects a blend of foreign influence and local tradition.