Names

Names are a big deal here in the Middle East. It’s always a great conversation starter when I ask someone where his or her name came from. They like to hear our names, especially our children’s names. Women are not quick to share their names, but it's easy to talk about the children's names. 

Joseph is Yusef (يوسف) in Arabic, it’s both a Muslim and a Christian name. It’s a name that is easy to translate from English to Arabic. It’s also a name that brings a lot of conversation. We like to talk about Joseph of Arimathea, the one who gave his grave to Jesus! One lady told me that it’s a common belief that if you want a beautiful child, you name him Yusef! 

Faith is also a name that is easy to translate, it translates to Emaan (ايمان). Emaan (beginning with a long e) is also a common Arab name that is both Muslim and Christian. Faith’s name comes with the story that we waited in faith for God to bless us with children. As we waited for our little girl, God grew our Faith in His goodness and love. We learned a lot about trusting Him and that his ways are perfect! 


Just the other day we met a sweet little 2 year old girl. Her mom called her saying, "Emaan, come here!" My eyes brightened and I said, "My little girl is named Emaan too!"