Naming Ceremonies Across World- Part 1
Naming ceremonies, stemming from ethnic or religious traditions and customs, hold various cultural, familial, and social significance for different communities around the world. I will briefly cover how such ceremonies manifest in a myriad of different cultures, from Hinduism to Judaism, Native American tribes, and South Asian and Kenyan communities.
In Hinduism, the naming ceremony is called Namkaran. It occurs on the eleventh day after a child's birth with the baby's horoscope playing an important role in selecting a name that will promise a successful life.
In Sikhism, India, the naming ceremony is known as Naam Karan. It often includes readings from the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism, which often guides parents in choosing a name.
Jewish boys are traditionally circumcised on the eighth day after birth, and the naming ceremony is called Brit Milah. The naming ceremony for girls is called Simchat Bat and can be performed at any time after birth.
Various Native American tribes have their own naming rituals, often tied to nature, animals, or tribal events. Names might change as individuals grow and achieve coming-of-age milestones. For example, the Navajo people have the Kinaalda ceremony for girls, celebrating their transition to womanhood. It includes a four-day process involving running, corn grinding, and a special feast.
In Chinese culture, a celebration called the Red Egg and Ginger Party is held during the baby's first month to announce the child's birth and to receive blessings and gifts. Red eggs and ginger are symbolic of good luck and happiness.
In Japan, the Miyamairi ceremony takes place at a Shinto shrine when a child is around one month old. It involves presenting the child to the local kami (Japanese word for supreme being, spirit) and receiving blessings.
In Islam, the Aqiqah ceremony involves the sacrifice of an animal, and the meat is distributed to family, friends, and the needy. This is usually performed on the seventh day after birth, and typically involves shaving the child's head.
Africa has a wide variety of naming ceremonies, often specific to different ethnic groups. Many involve family and community gatherings, with names often chosen to reflect events, ancestors, or virtues. This goes to show the importance placed on naming ceremonies and the joy they bring to the family of the new-born.
Here are some other facts about naming ceremonies in Kenyan communities:
Names reflect events: a child’s name is chosen in light of the circumstances or events surrounding their birth;
Elder involvement: elders and relatives play a significant role in selecting a child’s name, often based on their character or family history;
Common to have multiple names in Kenya: children might have a Christian name, a traditional name, and even a “school name” for formal education;
Rituals and prayers: naming ceremonies often include rituals and prayers. In some cultures, the baby’s feet are washed with a special concoction as a symbol of purification and protection;
Age: some communities name their children based on their birth order.
Modern influences: in urban areas, you can find a blend of traditional and modern naming practices. Some parents also choose names based on current trends and popular figures.
In our Meru culture, Kenya, newborns may receive the name of a family member whom they resemble in character or physical appearance. It was my grandmother who bestowed the name Mwenda upon me which means "to love other people," a trait we both share. Traditionally, a father's presence was required to give a child a proper middle name but that does not always have to be the case.
As I grow older, I find it interesting to reflect on the traditions and circumstances that brought me to where I am now. Names can hold significant influence and remind us of our connections to our ancestors and can help us preserve and honor our family heritage. Naming ceremonies may differ, but, in one way or another, the all reflect the joy and excitement families experience when welcoming a new life into this world.
