How to Chose a Magickal Name: A Guide for Pagans

So you want a magickal name? Maybe you are new to Wicca or paganism, maybe you have long been a pagan but still can't find a name that you like, or that you feel suits you. Maybe you just don't feel all that creative, or understand why you would need or want a magickal name. Perhaps this article can be of some use to you no matter which category you fall into.

Do I need a magickal name?

I have been asked that question several times over. My answer is always the same. Do you feel like you need a magickal name? If so, why? It is certainly not a requirement of pagan beliefs that you carry a magickal moniker, but many in the pagan and Wiccan communities have them. Some chose magickal names as a way of creating a sense of belonging to a family. Some traditions bestow a sort of adopted family name on members of the tradition that have reached a given rank to create a line of heredity, others simply have magickal names because they make them feel more attuned to the Earth, the elements or their religious beliefs and spiritual goals. Magickal names can also provide some measure of protection against hate crimes by providing anonymity. If you feel that you must have a magickal name consider the reasons why you feel that way as a first step in choosing a name, but if you don't feel the need for a new name, then by all means feel free to use the one your mother gave you.

How Can I choose A Name That Suits Me

Once you have decided that you do indeed require a magickal name consider the reasons you listed for wanting one. If it is for a sense of belonging within a grove or coven, then consider speaking with members of that tradition about how their names were chosen and whether or not they do ceremonial naming. If you are seeking simply to be more grounded in your beliefs consider a name that inspires in you a sense of reverence or describes your nature and characteristics. I myself am very fair and blond, I was also born in January during an ice storm so a name that gives a nod to winter, ice etcetera might be very fitting. My favorite holiday is Samhain and my goddess figure is Morgaine, however so Autumn names might fit with me as well.

Another method for choosing a magickal name is to choose a name that embodies some trait that you aspire to strengthen in your character. For instance, if you wanted to become more crafty or tactful you might want to chose a name that was associated with the fox, or a trickster deity.

If these options don't have the spiritual flavor that you were seeking, consider seeking the name through a sweat lodge experience, divinatory practice or just meditation. Ask the powers that be to grant you a sign what your name should be and then undertake whatever ceremony you chose~ as long as some sort of meditation and ritual work is involved, then pay close attention to any signs or symbols that might come to you.

What To Avoid

There are very few hard and fast rules that you should keep in mind when choosing a magickal name: Certain terms such as Lord or Lady and Druid or Bard, are terms of rank within traditions. It is an honor to be given these titles and using them in a name without having them bestowed by a ranking clergy member can be very insulting to some people so you won't want to include any reference to such titles in your chosen name. Also bear in mind that some names and words within names are overused. If it is embarrassing to show up wearing the same outfit to a party imagine showing up with the same name. Generally, unless it is very important to you avoid using the words Star, Raven , Wolf , Hawk , Morgayne etc. unless you are prepared to meet others with similar names. Another rule of thumb to keep in mind, don't choose a name that has heavy ethnic overtones unless you have the heredity to back it up. If you are Native American or Irish feel free to incorporate that in your name, but beware of coming off as a culture thief otherwise.

In deciding on a magickal name most of all don't be too hasty nor too fashionable. Consider your desires and needs, and allow yourself to be creative and come up with a name that you will love for years to come.