What’s In a Name?

Proverbs 22:1

Choosing baby names is one of the most difficult tasks new parents face. Some are not able to agree on the name until moments before departing the hospital. There are numerous books available offering the name until moments before departing the hospital. There are numerous books available offering the origin and meaning along with the most popular names helping couples narrow their choices.

Naming a baby at birth in Biblical times was a weighty matter. A son was always preferred before a daughter. It was believed a son may turn out to be the long awaited Messiah. He would give a father distinction. A son would provide for his mother upon the death of his father. The name given to the child declared hope or reproach. Thus a daughters name often meant weakness or bitterness. A son’s name meant strength or God’s love.

When yet a second daughter was born to Joachim, his wife had prepared herself for his disappointment. Again, they believed God had not heard their prayers for a son. Fast forward, Joachim was the father of Mary, mother of Jesus. Mary’s name meant bitterness and suffering. Long before Mary’s birth God had planned her future. She married into the royal line of David, and bore Jesus, the long awaited Messiah.

Upon acceptance of the Messiah a new name is received that carries distinction – your new name reflects God’s never ending love and declares hope to those who speak it.