01/07/2025
Proverbs 22:6 (KJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
The Hebrew word for train up in our theme scripture is chanak, which, among other things, means to inaugurate. Inauguration encompasses many aspects, one of which, is critical, that is, naming.
In Jewish culture, naming is so important that a child’s name, particularly for Hebrew boys, is not announced until the eighth day. Additionally, the Hebrew number eight symbolizes new beginnings. Naming a child, therefore, is considered an act of defining their identity.
When we study the Bible, we find that almost every character lived out the meaning of their name: Nimrod’s name means rebellious, and the beginning of his kingdom was Babel (Genesis 10:8-12). Jacob’s name means trickster, and he stole his brother’s birthright (Genesis 27:36).
While some of our parents may not have known God and thus gave their children names whose meanings contradict God’s purposes, as Christians today, we are called to do better.
Most importantly, it is God who names our children. The Bible is filled with examples of God naming children, such as: Isaac (Genesis 17:19), Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:9), John (Luke 1:13) and Jesus (Matthew 1:21).
As believers, we must be intentional in seeking God’s guidance when naming our children. Names carry profound significance in shaping identity and destiny.