What Is His Name?


Naming a child is one of the most significant decisions parents make when their little bundle of joy arrives. It's a choice that carries with it a sense of identity, tradition, and sometimes even a bit of controversy. The name a child carries throughout their life can shape their self-esteem, identity, and how they are perceived by the world. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of selecting a name for your child, taking inspiration from a real-life situation involving a couple named Johnna and Maranda. We will also delve into the biblical connection and the role of family and relatives in this decision.


The Importance of Choosing the Right Name

Selecting a name for your child is not a decision to be taken lightly. It's a choice that will stay with them for the rest of their life. Before diving into Johnna and Maranda's story, let's discuss the factors to consider before naming a child.

  1. Meaning and Significance: The meaning of a name can have a profound impact on a child's life. Some parents choose names with cultural or familial significance, while others opt for names that convey positive traits or virtues.
  2. Compatibility: The name should sound good with the child's last name and be easy to pronounce. A name that is too difficult to spell or say might lead to frustration for the child.
  3. Uniqueness: Parents often want their child's name to be special, but it's essential to strike a balance. An overly unique name can lead to teasing or difficulties in school.
  4. Family and Cultural Considerations: Names can carry significant cultural and familial weight. Some families have naming traditions that they want to uphold, while others want to break from tradition and choose something entirely new.
  5. Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the parents' personal preferences matter the most. It's their child, and they should be comfortable with the name they choose.


Johnna and Maranda's Dilemma

Now, let's turn our attention to the story of Johnna and Maranda. Maranda is six months pregnant, and they are expecting a baby boy. The couple found themselves in a name-related conundrum. Johnna wanted to name their son after himself, suggesting "Johnna Junior," while Maranda had different ideas.

When their son was born, the moment of truth arrived. The doctor asked for the baby's name. Maranda hesitated, while Johnna confidently declared the name as "Johnna Junior." A significant clash of opinions became apparent. When it came time to sign the birth certificate, Maranda asserted that their son's name was "Michel," a name she claimed to like. Johnna refused to sign the certificate unless their son was named "Johnna Junior."

In this situation, it's clear that both Johnna and Maranda had valid points and emotions regarding their son's name. However, let's analyze their perspectives.

Johnna's Perspective:

  • Johnna wanted his son to carry on his name, a tradition that many families embrace.
  • He may have felt a sense of pride and legacy in having a "junior."
  • His insistence on "Johnna Junior" could be seen as an attempt to honor his own identity and family heritage.

Maranda's Perspective:

  • Maranda preferred a different name, "Michel," for her son.
  • She valued the idea of giving her child an individual identity separate from his father.
  • Her choice of name was a reflection of her own taste and desires for her son's future.


The couple faced a classic case of divergent opinions on their child's name. In situations like these, communication and compromise are key. The couple should have engaged in a more thorough discussion about their preferences, considered the significance of the name, and explored other options that could have met both their desires. A child's name is a part of their identity, and it's essential for both parents to be comfortable with the choice.


Is It Absurd to Name a Child After a Parent?

Naming a child after a parent, often referred to as a "Junior" or "II" in some cultures, is a longstanding tradition. It carries a sense of lineage and familial connection. However, it's not without its challenges. Some argue that it can lead to confusion, particularly in legal and official documents, while others see it as a way to honor and preserve family heritage.

The decision to name a child after a parent should ultimately be based on the parents' mutual agreement and understanding. It's not absurd as long as both parents are on board and consider the potential implications. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons and make a choice that feels right for the family.


Interestingly, this naming dilemma bears a resemblance to a story from the Bible, specifically in Luke Chapter 1. In this chapter, we find the story of the naming of John the Baptist. According to the biblical account, John's parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, faced a similar situation. Zechariah was initially unable to speak, but through divine revelation, he affirmed that his son's name would be John, despite the customs and expectations of their time.

The parallel between Johnna and Maranda's situation and the biblical account raises questions about the significance of names in the context of faith and tradition. It prompts us to ponder how personal preferences and divine guidance intersect when it comes to naming a child.


Family and Relatives in the Decision

In many cultures, family and relatives play a significant role in naming a child. They may offer suggestions, share their own preferences, or even expect certain naming traditions to be upheld. However, it's crucial to remember that the final decision rests with the parents. While input from loved ones can be valuable, it should not overshadow the parents' choices and desires for their child.


In conclusion, naming a child is a decision that should be made with careful consideration, mutual agreement, and open communication between parents. Johnna and Maranda's story serves as a reminder that this choice is not to be taken lightly. The significance of a child's name goes beyond mere letters; it shapes their identity and future. It's a decision that should reflect the parents' love, values, and aspirations for their child.


Now, let's leave you with some intriguing questions to ponder:

  1. How can parents strike a balance between honoring tradition and embracing individuality when naming their child?
  2. What are the potential long-term consequences of naming a child after a parent?
  3. In what ways can open communication and compromise help resolve naming disagreements between parents?
  4. How does the biblical story of John the Baptist's naming offer insights into the importance of names and divine guidance?
  5. Should family and relatives have a say in naming a child, and if so, to what extent should their opinions be considered?