The word “Heshang” was derived from the Sanskrit Upadhyaya, meaning teacher or monitor. The word was pronounced as Pwajjhaw of Khosha in the regions to the West of China. From there to the Han-inhabited area it was changed into Heshang. Originally it was an honorable title only for those who were capable to be masters, and not to anybody else. This title at first had not been confined to Buddhist monks but might equally be applied to qualified Buddhist nuns. Later on, this word came to be used to address any male who is leading a monastic life. It is in conformity to the original meaning. (From Essentials of Buddhism: Questions and Answers)