Earthly name and spritual name..

Sat Nam,

I think there are a lot of ways to look at this, and I will give just a brief opinion (others, c'mon in). I have learned that a person's name can reflect their highest destiny, if they choose to look at their name that way. A "spiritual" name or one that is founded in Gurmuki or a sacred language has the benefit of carrying a deep meaning associated to its sounds. Some spiritual names are picked using the science of numerology and determining destiny that way. BUT (and this is where opinions might differ) I think it depends on the CONSCIOUSNESS with which one looks at the name. For a Christian, John Luther may be a very special name. For a Sikh, Fateh Singh symbolizes something just as sacred. It applies to other religions and paths as well. What's your relationship with your name?

An example that is very pertinent is "Singh" and "Kaur". Look at what those two "names" mean in context. A rebirth of an individual's consciousness to live equally with all under the Grace of our Guru, among other deeper meanings.

For the second half of your question: are people who don't have a spiritual name somewhat less spiritual, or "lower"?

No. Your NAME does NOT make you spiritual, does not make you "lower" in any sense of the word. Your PRACTICE, and your connection with God and Guru make you spiritual. A name serves as a reminder of your commitment, if you choose to see it that way. It doesn't have to do with the sound of it. Take my name, "Lovepreet." The first half is, shall we say "Anglicanized" and the second half is not. Does that make me feel "less" spiritual because not all of its "sounds" are derived from an ancient text? Of course not! I fondly view my name as I do my nature--to love all aspects of creation unconditionally. It suits me. If you feel like you need a spiritual name, then by all means, get one. Sometimes changing one's name psychologically reinforces a change in commitment to ones destiny. A lot of people on this forum have probably changed their names, and can better offer an opinion.

But, remember. There is a sound, the Naad, in everything. Even English. It's an unheard sound beneath all the others. All sounds have a subtle effect. How does your name effect you?

I hope you get many replies, but rest assured that while your name DOES have an impact, your Divine identity is One with Waheguru.

EDIT, in response to the question below: People who have "made up" names? When is John different than Pippin? Remember, a person's spirituality does not come from their name. Their name might reflect their spirituality, but it by no means is the source! A tribal name within the tribe can be spiritual. Maybe not to you or me, but to the nameholder, it can be. It ... (more)