Naming ritual

Naming rituals are common in all strata of Madaran society, although they differ significantly both regionally and between social classes. They are to some extent a holdover from earlier periods in history, when obstetric science was less advanced and subsequently, rates of infant and child mortality were higher. In modern time the tradition is retained, where a child will reach a certain age and shed their infant name, replacing it with one more suitable to their developing personality. Infant names are rarely gender-specific for this reason, and an older child or adolescent will usually select a name traditional of their declared gender.
The ages of naming rituals vary widely. Among the higher classes, a child's naming ritual might take place anywhere between twelve and sixteen years of age, but rarely later. The working classes both urban and rural might delay longer, and hold a shared ritual for several siblings or cousins who are close in age. The celebration traditions vary regionally, but are usually held in spring.

History

Naming rituals were initially tied to "infant names", which were traditionally created to protect small children from disease and other maladies. Infant names were chosen by parents at birth. Adult names would sometimes be tied to the name holder's personal history, or to physical features that could not be determined as a child. Thus adult names gain significance because they tell the person's life story.

Participants

• Maturing child, aged as young as eight or ten.
• Child's parents or caretakers.
• Chaplain or acolyte of any of the Disciples.

Observance

Usually held during spring, sometimes on the spring equinox. In some parts of Tigonne, especially deep in the Antelix Mountains, they're tied to the snowmelt or first spring flowers.

Primary Related Location

Madara Peninsula