This week’s kavanot are directed to our younger generation of Jews (under 50). For those a bit older, they are likely to induce a smile.
Giving Your Jewish Child a Hebrew Name: And Coming to Know Them
One of the many joys of my rabbinate has been officiating at the baby namings of Jewish children. Traditionally, a girl is given a Hebrew name at the first Torah reading after her birth and a boy at his circumcision. Our congregation often has a public “baby naming” at Friday night services.
Frequently, the child is named after a loved one (Ashkenazim typically name for a deceased person, Sephardim often for people who are living). When speaking with the parents before the ceremony, I ask them why they chose to name their child after that person. After hearing about the loved one, I ask if there are any particular traits the person had they hope their child will emulate. At the public naming, I suggest parents share these characteristics with the congregation.
And yet, when I’ve asked children soon to become a bar or bat mitzvah, often they know very little about the person for whom they are named.
If you’ve chosen a Hebrew name for your child (or have named them after a Biblical figure), it’s worthwhile to share the life story of the person for whom they are named. In addition to the traits we hope our children or grandchildren will emulate, it’s a beautiful way of honoring the loved one.
If you were given a Hebrew name for a loved one and know little about the person, take the time to learn more about them. It’s a meaningful way to honor them.
Rabbi David Woznica
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