Granted this has the risk of perhaps being at bit too specific and/or dogmatic...

This would be my concern but it is an interesting idea. Also, what do you not like about the term "padawan"?

I've been considering using certain terminology for purposes of Jedi religious beliefs - terms like "darth"(obviously taken from Vader, and as a corruption of "dearth") to describe the emptiness which hatred and anger will fill; and "bendu" (GL's original part of name for Jedi) to describe the righteous self which keeps anger and hatred at bay. Obi Wan could explain such beliefs about these competing sides within everyone. Thus the name "Darth" has more meaning as a name and not a mere title; it would be a sign that Anakin has embraced that side of himself. And less random than, "hm, Darth sounds like a cool name." On the other hand I don't want to be too technical and silly. Thoughts?