Call Me By My Name

Spiritual names are important to a lot of Pagans. Some use them as their public name, and others as names known only to their communities. Others find the whole phenomenon ridiculous.  I think there is even a “metal-bird-predator” name generator spoofing of Silver Ravenwolf’s name (like Tinfoil Dodomongoose).

The thing is, Pagans aren’t the only ones who do this. Catholics take a saints name for confirmation, and nuns take the name of the saint they are devoted to. If you convert to Judaism you take a Jewish name, usually Abraham or Rebekah to denote you are a convert. Mary Francis or Avraham ben Avraham Avinu are really no stranger than Chiron or Nimue.

In other faiths, taking a religious name, a spiritual name, is a mark of commitment. It’s taking a stand. Saying “this I believe” or “these are my people.” It becomes a vital part of your identity and ties you to something larger than yourself.

Taking a spiritual name isn’t something to do on a whim. Just as naming your child Caandyyie might be unwise, taking Icarus, Persephone, or Bacchus on might prove problematic. Icarus is ultimately always unsuccessful and foolhardy. Persephone may have been to Hades and back, but she goes back to Hades again and again. Bacchus will not provide you with a life of moderation and stability.

How did you choose your name? Does your tradition have a process for taking names? What are the negative qualities that come along with the good qualities of your name? Do you use your name publicly or only among specific people?

What’s in your name?