Content Summary
What is your name and what do you call yourself? There are so many books around; someone may say, so what is my motivation for writing this?
It is sad to know that there are some people who live on earth with all its associated ills and woes. Yet knowingly or unknowingly many allow themselves names that are condemning, derogating, insulting or offensive even to outright evil, to say the least. It is rather disheartening that some people are called names that contradict their life purpose. It pains me to see that some people prefer names that were of no use i.e., motiveless or a name that prophesies doom rather than one that guides, blesses or make a positive impact on the upcoming life. It is not that a name will live anyone's life for him/her but that good name reminds of and enhances spiritual well-being.
It is not uncommon to come across people who gave their children names only because they liked the phonetic sound of the names while uninformed of the origin(s), meaning(s) and the impact of the names. One such person recently kept bemoaning that her eight-year son was a cheat amongst other things as we watched him swimming with other children (during one of our children's swimming lessons). Since I was aware of the meaning of the child's name: I asked why she gave her son that particular name?
She replied that it was because she liked the name and that, in fact, to my surprise; she knew the meaning of the name ? a supplanter!
At a glance, some of the names in this book may appear archaic or overly formal nevertheless remarkably, they are similar to the treasured names people readily choose without knowing their meaning(s). These same names when popularised by public figures, seem ready-made for the name givers without inquiry as to their meanings - excellent or worthless. The reason they had chosen these names was simply because of the popularity of the actor or actress who had the name. Should this, truly, be an acceptable or sufficient reason to give a name?
In the African culture, names are usually prophetic, experiential, expressible supplication, packed with meaning, which are motivated by circumstances of the cultural practices of the time. Most African names are made up from everyday ?phrases?, and occasionally the bearer might be described as having a relationship to a god or goddess.
Names are also given to reflect ancient tribal symbols or totems; others are construed by the parents for their children to emulate certain admirable qualities, or express a hope for a relationship with God.
Names - they have been taken for granted by many people for many years, Eugenia reminds us that this should not be the case. The prophecy of any life starts with its name. The book sets out thoughtful arguments for name choosers and givers to consider and demonstrates the importance of a good name. So grab a copy, sit back and get ready to find out more, you might discover some surprises along the way. The author demonstrates the importance of a good name, so be informed.
Eugenia Ukata had the idea for this book even before having her own children. She is very passionate about the names bestowed to our children. She believes that names with positive meanings are better and should be chosen over names with negative meanings. She envisages that such awareness will help name-givers choose inspiring names. She is inspirational, a good cook (she has been told!) and enjoys baking. Also, she likes to keep a good sense of humour ? life is to be enjoyed after all!
Table of Content
Names - they have been taken for granted by many people for many years, Eugenia reminds us that this should not be the case. The prophecy of any life starts with its name. The book sets out thoughtful arguments for name choosers and givers to consider and demonstrates the importance of a good name. So grab a copy, sit back and get ready to find out more, you might discover some surprises along the way. The author demonstrates the importance of a good name, so be informed.
Eugenia Ukata had the idea for this book even before having her own children. She is very passionate about the names bestowed to our children. She believes that names with positive meanings are better and should be chosen over names with negative meanings. She envisages that such awareness will help name-givers choose inspiring names. She is inspirational, a good cook (she has been told!) and enjoys baking. Also, she likes to keep a good sense of humour ? life is to be enjoyed after all!