Exploring Ghana's Rich Cultural Practice of Day-Born Names
By Araba Essel
In Ghana, naming is a significant cultural process that is seen as a sacred obligation that calls for thorough deliberation and thinking. Children in Ghana are given names depending on several elements, such as the day of the week they were born, the circumstances of their birth, their gender, and the preferences of their parents.
A prominent cultural tradition in Ghana is giving children their names according to the day they were born. It is said that a child's name may have a big influence on their life because each day of the week has a special name and significance linked with it. Here are some names given to newborns in Ghana along with their meanings:
Kojo ( a male) or Adjoa (a female) for Monday
Both mean "born on Monday”. In Ghanaian tradition, Monday is regarded as the day of the moon, and people born on this day are seen as being emotionally stable, peaceful, and nurturing.
Tuesday: Abena or Kwabena, depending on gender.
Meaning "born on Tuesday". The day of Mars is said to be Tuesday, and persons born on this day are regarded as forceful, brave, and bold.
Kwaku (a man) or Akua (a female) for Wednesday
Both mean "born on Wednesday”. The day of Mercury, Wednesday is regarded as being associated with adaptability, communication, and intelligence.
Thursday: Yaw or Yaa, depending on gender.
Meaning "born on Thursday". The day of Jupiter is Thursday, and persons born on this day are seen as self-assured, upbeat, and prosperous.
Kofi (a guy) or Afua (a female) for Friday
Both mean "born on Friday." The day of Venus is Friday, and those born on this day are thought to be imaginative, devoted, and passionate.
On Saturday, choose between Ama or Kwame.
Meaning “born on a Saturday." Saturn is thought to rule on Saturday, and those born on this day are seen as being diligent, disciplined, and patient.
Either Kwasi or Akosua on Sunday.
Both mean "born on Sunday." Sunday is regarded as the day of the sun, and those born on this day are seen to be naturally self-assured, upbeat, and leaders.
Ghana's complex and significant cultural practice of naming illustrates the nation's rich history and diversified cultural heritage. Ghanaian names have profound meaning and importance, regardless of the day of the week, the circumstances surrounding the child's birth, or individual preferences. They are valued by both parents and kids since they are a significant part of Ghanaian identity. The day-born names and their meanings are deeply ingrained in Ghanaian culture, and they continue to be cherished by Ghanaians around the world.