in some (ancient) cultures the practice of giving captives new names was in order to demonstrate power and control over the captives. E.g., Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were assigned new names Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednigo when they were captured by Nebuchadezzar (Daniel 1:1-7).
Ancient cultures? Think US-American slaveowners who gave the people transported in from Africa an easily-pronouncable name, and their own surname if they were feeling particularly generous....
But that's one cool bit of background. Thanks for reminding us! & :-)
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Ancient cultures? Think US-American slaveowners who gave the people transported in from Africa an easily-pronouncable name, and their own surname if they were feeling particularly generous....
But that's one cool bit of background. Thanks for reminding us! & :-)