Elie/Eli. Many converts follow the contemporary American custom of selecting a Hebrew name based on the initial letter or sound of their English name. Book Condition: New. Language: English . ... First of all, thank you for your posts. They connect us … Your Hebrew name functions as a conduit, channeling spiritual energy from G‑d into your soul and your body. I thought this could be a good opportunity to symbolize my internal transformation by choosing and using a hebrew name. Keren " A guide to the rules and rituals of converting to Judaism includes advice on such issues as dealing with family, choosing a synagogue, and selecting a Hebrew name. " I am going through my conversion process, and although my first name is a Hebrew one, and I could use it, it’s really important to me that I am choosing the right one, because I know just how important a name is. The donkey, for example, is characterized by carrying heavy, physical burdens. But you may not have to look any further than your own given name for inspiration. The lexicon of Hebrew names was not handed down from Mount Sinai; it has grown and changed throughout history and in response to local customs and fashions. Take, for example, the quintessentially Jewish name Esther, which is Persian in origin and shares its root with the fertility goddess, Ishtar. Do people use their hebrew name instead of their birth name? Married to a convert herself, Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion, and offers practical guidance toward creating a Jewish identity. Laila LibraryThing is a cataloging and … Choosing a Hebrew Name As with a literal newborn, the convert as a spiritual newborn selects a Hebrew name and adopts Abraham and Sarah as spiritual parents. When choosing a Hebrew name for yourself, you should understand the meaning and be able to spell it properly in the language it comes from. 4. Miriam A guide to the rules and rituals of converting to Judaism includes advice on such issues as dealing with family, choosing a synagogue, and selecting a Hebrew name. Some rabbis feel strongly that the person you honor should be a Jewish teacher or mentor, or even a historical figure you find inspiring. Recent Top. Some Hebrew names are connected to God. You will be asked to pick a Hebrew name. “Isaiah speaks of gentiles brought in by God,” said Hakham Nehemia Gordon, looking on proudly at the converts. 8. Examples: Michael becomes Micha'el, Eve becomes Chava. Maimonides, the famous 12th century rabbi, explains that since Abraham and Sarah were the first Jews, and they took on the responsibility to convert themselves and their household, they serve as spiritual parents of all those in the future who convert. The biblical precedent for this practice is clear: Ruth did not change her name. Converts have always selected Hebrew names that speak to them personally; Ruth has long been a favorite for obvious reasons. [Ruth, the grandmother of King David, is perhaps the Bible’s best-known convert.] Eitan 18 notes. Zachariah, Ariella Daniel           Choosing a Hebrew name is very hard It’s extremely hard to pick a Hebrew name. Naming a new baby can be an exciting if daunting task. It is a purposeful, mindful statement of intent for the long future. The name Isaac comes from the word for “laughter” because his mother laughed to learn she would bear a child at her advanced age. Pronounced: AHVR-rah-ham, Origin: Hebrew, Abraham in the Torah, considered the first Jew. Devora Learn Hebrew for Free! Elie/Eli. Tikvah. The definitive guide to the conversion process, revised and updated for a new generation of Jews-by-choice However you choose to fashion your personal journey to Judaism, Anita Diamant is the perfect guide. someone who is choosing a Jewish life). Choosing a Hebrew name is very hard It’s extremely hard to pick a Hebrew name. Many rabbis hold that converts should not only add a Hebrew name, but also modify the given name used in pre-conversion years. Lior If there is not a precise Hebrew translation, you might pick something that sounds similar or even just shares the same first letter. Nachshon This step can voluntarily be added to the conversion process. All but one of the converts – or gerim as is the Hebrew word for convert to Judaism – have converted in the framework of Helsinki congregation. Many Jews are given a Hebrew name at birth in addition to their English name, some use the simple Hebrew equivalent of their English name, and some were never given a Hebrew name at all. Martha. Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to you in making this decision: A Hebrew name is one that has its roots in Jewish Tradition and the Hebrew language. Frequently, after a Bet Din and the signing of an oath, a Hebrew name is chosen. Regina or Gina, which means “queen,” can give rise to Malka, which also means “queen.” If your parents named you David, David (pronounced “Dah-veed“) can be your Hebrew name as well. Ayelet A female will be called “So-and-so” bat (meaning, daughter of) “So-and-so” and “So-and-so”. At any rate, at some point, you will be asked to a! Hard to pick a Hebrew name would be Avraham ben Avraham Avinu exam: the Bet Din ; conversion children... A precise Hebrew translation, you have to look at who in Jewish history there no...... # Hebrew names were invented and many old ones reclaimed some choose! 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