Venerable
The Venerable is used as a style or epithet in several Christian churches. It is also the common English-language translation of a number of Buddhist titles. "Venerable" is a term for those who are ordained. Any monk or nun is traditionally referred to as "venerable". It is simply a term of respect for those who have chosen the monastic life and have taken it upon themselves to preserve the teachings in this way.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, the Western style of Venerable (also abbreviated as Ven.) is entitled to ordained Buddhist monks and nuns and also to novices (shramaneras). The title of Master may be followed for senior members of The Sangha. "Venerable", along with "Reverend" (Rev.) is used as a western alternative to Maha Thera in the Theravada branch and Făshī (法師) in Chinese Mahayana branch.
