Why Our Names Are Steeped In Purpose

The Dagara people have a birth hearing ritual that welcomes the spirit of a new baby, before the child has even been born. 

During the ritual the shaman asks the spirit of the fetus to introduce itself and explain its purpose for descending to earth. The mother, who has been placed into a trance, becomes a channel between the spirit and living realms, giving voice to the fetus's spirit. 

What the spirit of the baby says will help determine the name that the infant will receive. A girl is given her name a month after birth; a boy receives his in three weeks.

A child’s name must reflect the sacred purpose revealed by their spirit self.

While men aren’t involved in all birthing rites, for the Dagara the father of the pregnant woman must be present at the hearing ritual. It’s his role to tell his future grandchild about their name and the hearing ritual. 

Rituals like this help children better understand their purpose as they transition from childhood into adulthood.

What does your name mean? Why did your parents give it to you?

How is your name attached to your purpose? 

Even if you haven’t had a hearing ritual, you can always take a moment to listen to your own spirit. 

Divinely guided, your spirit is inherently linked with your purpose.