The Meanings of Christian Names

By Anon Anon

This book contains classic material dating back to the 1900s and before. The content has been carefully selected for its interest and relevance to a modern audience.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Read Books Ltd.
• Release date: Sep 8, 2016
• ISBN: 9781473354647

Book preview

THE MEANINGS OF CHRISTIAN NAMES

ONE of the objects of the occult sciences is to seek out and enumerate those influences which have the power, however slight, to sway the character and destiny of mankind. Not the least of these is the personal name by which every man and woman is designated from a few weeks after birth until his or her life on earth is ended.

It is within reason to suppose that a name whose significance is favourable can exert an auspicious influence over its owner, while the bearer of a name which is sordid or evil in its association may be handicapped in his moral and spiritual development; in time, therefore, the name may materially affect the character of the person who bears it.

In the following pages we give a list of Christian names, their origins and meanings, and the characteristics traditionally associated with them. We do not pretend, however, that the characteristics are positive, or that in every case they are applicable to the individuals concerned. Moreover, it will be observed that in a certain number of cases the name characteristics are diametrically opposed to their original meanings.

MEN’S NAMES

A

Aaron.—Egyptian: high mountain.

Ambitious, thorough, successful. Does not understand women. Is at his best among his own sex.

Abel.—Hebrew: breath or fleeting.

Careless, pleasure-loving, well-mannered. Sometimes displays great physical courage. Can be obstinate and too impatient to take advice.

Abraham.—Hebrew: father of a multitude.

Serious-minded, pessimistic, affectionate. Has simple tastes, fond of the open air. Better as a companion than a husband.

Absalom.—Hebrew: father of peace.

Bold, cunning, passionate. Seldom a man of peace. He aims at success and has little scruple in achieving his end.

Adam.—Hebrew: red earth.

Lazy, weak, worldly, generous. A name which sometimes brings ill luck.

Adolphus.—Teutonic: noble wolf. Another form is Adolphe.

Benevolent, placid, cultured. Usually handsome and physically strong. Popular with women, but men are inclined to distrust him.

Adrian.—Latin: from Adria.

Artistic, soulful, frugal, unambitious. Usually makes a successful painter, writer or musician.

Alan.—Anglo-Norman: cheerful. Other forms are Allan, Allen.

Sentimental, brave, spirited. Unsuited for sedentary occupations. Thrives on adventure and danger. Usually remains a bachelor, but has love affairs.

Alban.—Latin: white.

Austere, just, straightforward. He is not fond of company. A great Nature lover and given to loneliness and contemplation.

Albert.—Teutonic: nobly bright.

Thoughtful, tolerant, conservative, hard-working. Suited for all tasks requiring great application and accuracy. Moderate imagination.

Alexander.—Greek: helper of men. Other forms are Alec, Alex, Alick.

Daring, quick-thinking, cunning. Often successful in commercial enterprises