Have you realised how naming traditions vary across the world?
For instance, in Japan, baby names are carefully chosen based on Kanji characters, which carry both symbolic and phonetic significance. Parents often consider the meaning in the characters to reflect qualities they hope their child will embody.
In our home country of Ireland, although English is the main everyday language, many people choose Irish names for their children, such as Saoirse, Oisín and Aoife, which connect to mythological stories and heritage.
Meanwhile in India, names are often chosen based on astrological charts, with Hindu parents consulting astrologers to see that the child’s name relates to their nakshatra (lunar constellation), to bring harmony and good fortune.
How was your name or your child’s name chosen? Feel free to share your story in the comments – I’d love to hear!
