Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Acts 4:36 – What Would Your Nickname Be?
Nicknames can be uplifting, fun or derisive. Some, called diminutives, are simply altered forms of formal names – Nick is a nickname short for Nicolas. Perry is short for Perrynoid. Parents often give nicknames to their children…and no I will not embarrass mine…at least this time. Sports are filled with nicknames – Do you know who “King James” is? Terms of endearment between those romantically involved are also common. Pet names they are sometimes called; they can also be called sickening sweet. Nicknames can even be ironic – “Tiny” for someone with plenty of bulk. But they all have two things in common. First, they are supposedly and somewhat descriptive, whether for good or bad, ironic or straight-forward. Second, they are given by others; no one should give themselves a nickname.
In American culture our “given name” and “family name” have very little meaning. “Perry” means “Pear Tree.” In Bible times, their “given name” often had purpose expressing meaning; sometimes new names were given to express a new meaning. Abram, meaning “exalted father,” became Abraham, “father of nations” (Genesis 17:5). Ironically, a man whose last name ends with “ham” became the father of a nation who could not eat pork. Simeon or Simon (“he has heard”) who became Cephas (Aramaic) or Peter (Greek) which means “rock, stone” (John 1:42). “Peter” definitely was not “rock solid” in the beginning but became so later.
If we were to be given a spiritual nickname, what would it be? “Picky Penelope” because she is never satisfied? Grumbling George because he is always complaining? “Better late than never” Burt because he is always there, just never on time? “Backstabbing Barry” because when your back is turned, his tongue is twisted? Generous Gertrude because when there is a need, she gives? “Friendly Francis” because she greets every visitor? If we were given a spiritual nickname, what would it be?
Comments