Pronunciation: [mˈe͡ɪtɹa͡ɪə] (IPA) 
The word "Maitreya" refers to a future Buddha in Buddhist tradition. It is pronounced /maɪˈtreɪə/, with the syllable "maɪ" sounding like "my" and the "tre" sounding like "tray". The "ə" at the end of the word is an unstressed vowel sound, pronounced like the "a" in "sofa". The spelling of "Maitreya" comes from the Sanskrit language, where it is spelled with the Devanagari script as मैत्रेय.
Maitreya is a term derived from the Sanskrit language and predominantly finds usage in Buddhist teachings. It refers to a future Buddha, often regarded as the successor to the historical Gautama Buddha. Maitreya is believed to embody qualities of compassion, enlightenment, and ultimate wisdom. The concept of Maitreya plays a central role in several Buddhist traditions, particularly those that emphasize the belief in future Buddhas.
According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya's advent will take place in a distant future, after the teachings of the present Buddha have been forgotten and lost. Maitreya is anticipated to come to Earth to restore and disseminate the Dharma (Buddhist teachings), bringing profound spiritual transformation and renewal to humanity. In many texts, Maitreya is described as a bodhisattva, someone who consciously seeks enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, an enlightened being who delays their own nirvana to assist others on their path.
Iconographically, Maitreya is often depicted seated in a peaceful meditative pose, radiating serenity and compassion. Different Buddhist traditions may have varying interpretations and representations of Maitreya, but the fundamental idea of a future Buddha who will guide humanity towards awakening and liberation remains consistent throughout.
Maitreya represents a hope for the future, embodying the idea of a transcendental being who will bring salvation and liberation. The concept of Maitreya serves as a source of aspiration and inspiration for many Buddhists, reminding them of the potential for enlightenment and the possibility of a better world to come.
The word "Maitreya" is derived from Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language. In Sanskrit, "Maitreya" (also spelled "Maitriya") comes from the word "Maitri" which means "loving-kindness" or "friendship". The suffix "-ya" is often added to a personal or divine name to indicate a belonging or association. Therefore, "Maitreya" can be understood to mean "one who embodies loving-kindness" or "one who has a deep sense of friendship". In Buddhist tradition, Maitreya refers to the future Buddha who will appear and bring enlightenment and compassion to the world.
