Spiritual Names

What's a spiritual name? Spiritual (Also known as a Magickal name or Craft Name) names are new names that people take on in some of the Pagan paths. Why would I want one? The reason for this depends on the particular path. Some people use a public name for practicing in groups, especially in areas where there's a lot of intolerance, so that others are less likely to find out that they're Pagan. The choosing of a new name can also symbolize the rebirth that happens when someone experiences Dedication, Initiation, or any other major change in their life or character. It can also be a way of distinguishing your "normal life" self from who you are when practicing your religion. How do I get a name? That's a matter of personal preference. There are groups that say you should wait for one to just come to you. Others choose their names based on things they're drawn to (so they might be named after a favorite type of tree, or weather, or stone, etc). More rarely there are some traditions in which the High Priest or Priestess chooses a name for you when they initiate you. Do I have to keep the same name forever? Some people do, but most paths don't insist on it. The most common attitude that I've seen is that whenever you no longer feel that a particular name "fits" you, you should start thinking about a new one. How many names can I have? Any number is fine, the most I've ever seen someone suggest was three. That way you'd have one name that's completely public, one that you only tell to people you know well, and one that's kept between you and your deities. Copyright © 1998 Cossie All Rights Reserved The current URL is: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/1492/library/name.html Return to the library.

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