The Meaning of Hallowed Be Thy Name
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is a phrase that carries profound significance within religious contexts, particularly in Christianity. It appears in the Lord’s Prayer, a central prayer in the Christian faith, emphasizing the sanctity and reverence of God’s name. The phrase invites believers to recognize and honor the holiness of God, highlighting the respect and awe that should accompany both the use of His name and the understanding of His character. By delving into the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the name “Hallowed,” we gain a greater appreciation for its impact across various dimensions of life.
The Name and Meaning
The notion of “hallowed” derives from the Old English term “halgian,” which means to make holy or to consecrate. In Hebrew, the term “kadosh” is used to express holiness, encapsulating a sense of being set apart and revered. The Greek equivalent often points to the sacredness attributed to God’s name, reflecting the core aspect of worship in both traditions. According to Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, “hallowed” is defined as “regarded as holy; revered.” Other sources, such as Wiktionary, expand on this, describing it as something that is “highly esteemed or respected.” This sets the stage for understanding “Hallowed Be Thy Name” as an exhortation to hold God’s name in the highest regard, further layered with the unique cultural and linguistic flavors of its origin.
The History of the Name and Gender Distribution
The phrase “Hallowed Be Thy Name” has deep historical roots, emerging from early Christian traditions and being solidified through the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer over centuries. The usage of the name spans across various cultures, predominantly associated with males, given its religious connotations. In many cultures, particularly in Christian-majority countries, “Matthew” (derived from “Hallowed”) may be used as a first name. Historically, it has been common for names evoking divine attributes to be predominantly masculine, suggesting a connection to male figures of faith and leadership within religious narratives. However, gender dynamics are shifting in modern naming practices, allowing for more gender-neutral interpretations.
15 Fun Facts About the Name
- The name Matthew means “gift of God” in Hebrew.
- Matthew is one of the twelve apostles in the New Testament.
- It ranked among the top names for boys in the U.S. throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
- Matthew was also a popular name among early Christians.
- The name is commonly found in various forms across different languages (e.g., Mateo in Spanish).
- Matthew has references in art and literature, showcasing a diverse impact.
- Some notable nicknames for Matthew include Matt, Matty, and Mateo.
- The name is celebrated on Saint Matthew’s Day in the Christian calendar.
- Famous authors, including Matthew Arnold, have contributed to literature.
- Matthew is associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius.
- The name often features prominently in popular culture (movies and music).
- Matthew appears in the “Top 100” for baby names in many countries.
- Several historical figures have borne the name Matthew, contributing to its legacy.
- In certain cultures, Matthew is linked to virtues of wisdom and knowledge.
- It symbolizes a connection to divine blessing and inspiration.
What Name Lists Does Matthew Rank For?
In terms of popularity, Matthew has maintained a strong position in various name rankings. Here are some statistics:
- Overall: Matthew is currently #31 in U.S. births.
- Boy: Matthew ranks #25 in U.S. births.
- Girl: Matthew isn’t commonly used for girls, ranking below #1000.
10 Notable Persons Named Matthew and Their Biography
1. Matthew McConaughey
Matthew McConaughey is an acclaimed American actor known for his captivating performances in films such as “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Interstellar.” Born in Texas, McConaughey initially gained fame for his role in “Dazed and Confused.” His career surged after winning the Academy Award, highlighting his versatility. Beyond acting, he has authored a memoir and works in philanthropy, showcasing his commitment to education and community development.
2. Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry is best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic sitcom “Friends.” His comedic talent and timing won the hearts of millions. Perry has also engaged in various charitable efforts and has been open about his struggles with addiction, using his experiences to advocate for mental health awareness.
3. Matthew Broderick
Matthew Broderick is a prominent actor, celebrated for his performances in classic films such as “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Producers.” With a career spanning decades, he is recognized for his talent in both film and theater, earning multiple awards for his contributions to the arts.
4. Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford is a professional American football quarterback known for his time with the Detroit Lions and winning the Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams. His competitive spirit and dedication to the sport have established him as a respected athlete in the NFL.
5. Matthew Modine
Matthew Modine is an accomplished actor known for roles in films such as “Full Metal Jacket” and “The Dark Knight Rises.” Modine’s work often emphasizes strong narratives, contributing to both film and humanitarian efforts.
6. Matthew Rhys
Welsh actor Matthew Rhys gained prominence for his leading role in the series “The Americans,” which earned him critical acclaim and awards. His adeptness at portraying complex characters has made him a respected figure in the industry.
7. Matthew Fox
Matthew Fox is widely recognized for his role as Jack Shephard on the television series “Lost.” His portrayal of character complexity garnered him a significant fan base and several award nominations, showcasing his exceptional acting range.
8. Matthew Goode
Matthew Goode is an English actor known for his work in films such as “The Imitation Game” and “A Single Man.” His performances often explore intricate narratives, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor.
9. Matthew Lillard
Matthew Lillard has endeared audiences as an actor in films like “Scream” and “Scooby-Doo.” Lillard’s charm and humor have made him a beloved figure in both film and television.
10. Matthew Bellamy
Matthew Bellamy is the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Muse, known for their unique blend of rock and electronic music. His songwriting and musical talent have won numerous awards and a global following.
Notable Persons With the Last Name Matthew
There are several individuals with the last name Matthew who have made noteworthy contributions in various fields, often related to arts and academia. These figures may not be household names, but their influence can be felt in their respective disciplines.
How Popular is the Baby Name Matthew in the U.S.?
Matthew has shown remarkable staying power as a popular name in the U.S., often ranking within the top tier of baby names. As of recent data, Matthew holds about a 1.2% share of the total male naming market, indicating its enduring appeal.
- United States: ~1.2%
- Canada: ~0.9%
- Australia: ~1.1%
- United Kingdom: ~1.0%
- New Zealand: ~0.8%
Where is the Name Matthew Popular?
The name Matthew retains popularity across various English-speaking nations due to its biblical roots and traditional appeal. Countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia commonly use the name. Its steady ranking among names for boys reflects both cultural significance and familial ties to faith and tradition.
10 Common Last Names for Matthew
- Smith
- Johnson
- Williams
- Jones
- Brown
- Davis
- Miller
- Wilson
- Anderson
- Thompson
10 Common First Names for Matthew
- Michael
- James
- Alexander
- Daniel
- David
- Joshua
- Andrew
- Joseph
- John
- Ryan
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Hallowed Be Thy Name” reflects a complex interplay of reverence, faith, and cultural heritage. The name Matthew, closely linked to this phrase, serves as a reminder of the rich traditions that shape our identities and the ways in which names carry weight. As a name, Matthew transcends borders, appearing in various forms and holding significance across many communities. Its historical context, noteworthy figures bearing the name, and enduring popularity illustrate how deeply intertwined our names are with the stories we tell and the values we uphold. Recognizing the sanctity of names and their meanings can foster a greater appreciation for the diverse ways in which individuals explore their faith and identity in both personal and communal spheres.
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