I have a question. How the Middle name works for Jews. I am an Ashkenazic Jew, and my husband is Sephardic. I really want to give the baby a second name, after my grandfather. And my husband is saying that by their customs the second name is never pronounced, and basically only the Rabbi knows it. Is it true? And what to do in that case. I really want officially to give the baby two names. It's important for me. Thanks a lot for your help. Best Regards K.

Dear K.- In fact, the middle name is a very serious matter- and the rabbis recommend that if a child has more than one name, then the child should be called by his full name on a regular basis, or at least once a day.. Although, your husband is correct, that the accepted custom (which is not the one recommended by the rabbis) is to only call the baby the first name- and leave the other names as a mystery to everyone except the immediate family. all the best! Chana

 

 

 

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