Names

When a child is born most parents think long and hard about a name that will be fitting for their child. Some of the considerations include a name that will be easy to pronounce and easy to spell. Sometimes a name is chosen to symbolize one's national cultural visions and aspirations. In the reborn State of Israel, many parents chose  Hebrew names to identify with the emerging Israeli culture.  

In traditional Jewish culture there is another consideration.  Naming after the dead is believed to give merit to the deceased. In addition it is believed that the deceased’s soul will watch over this new baby.

For many families there is yet another consideration. Knowing that a child is named after your loved one can give hope and comfort to close family members. On the other hand refusing to name after this loved one can cause feelings of pain and anguish. A name is something that connects us to our history, our culture and our family and therefore must be considered with much thoughtfulness. If not chosen carefully it can not only disconnect us from our history, but also disconnect us from those we cherish most of all, our close family members.
 

Names in "The Name" - Moriya and Dalia

Names Through the Ages - Aliza and Ayelet

Names in "Gogol" and "The Name" - Amira & Elisheva