05/30/26

A few years ago, I was on Pakistan Airlines on my way to Lahore. Just as the plane was about to take off, a voice over the loudspeakers asked us to bow our heads for prayer. The speaker started by calling on Allah and telling him how blessed his name was. I immediately thought of our Lord Jesus and what He told the disciples about prayer. He said they should begin with “Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.” (Mt 6:9). I thought, would we better understand this appellation to our Father in heaven’s name, if it was written this way: “Our Father in heaven, [hallowed be Your name.]” We find that the Greek word for “hallowed” means to render or acknowledge, or to treat as holy and sacred. The Hebrew word means to “sanctify.” To sanctify means to set something or someone apart for a sacred or special purpose, to make holy, or to purify. I like the way that King David begins his prayer in Psalm 8:1 “O Lord, our Lord, how excellent (or Majestic) is Your name in all the earth.” In other words, when we pray the Lord’s Prayer, it would be very proper to pray it this way: “Our Father in heaven– how holy and sacred is Your name.” I also remembered that in the book used by Jews during the Passover Seder meal, called the Haggadah, as a ritual guide that sets forth the order of the meal, their prayers always begin with “Blessed are You, GOD, our God, [King of the universe.]”

When I got home, I found that this formal noun, “hallowed,” refers to a name, title, or designation used to identify a person, place, or thing that indicates a specific, descriptive, or official label that is special and should be honored. So, I decided to see what psychologists had to say about this subject. I found that psychologists suggest that recognizing the “special virtue” or meaning within someone’s name or title acts as a powerful anchor for identity, dignity, and social connection. By acknowledging these specific labels, you are not just using a tag for identification but are validating a person’s self-concept and their place in the world. They implied that using someone’s correct name, especially in relegated contexts, helps restore a sense of humanity and self-worth, making them feel valued rather than invisible. They said that people often internalize the perceived meanings or “virtues” of a name (e.g., a name meaning “leader”). Recognizing these qualities can reinforce positive traits and self-confidence.

As such, hearing someone’s highly honored name activates specific brain regions associated with attention and the relevance of that name to the individual saying it. When you use a name thoughtfully, it signals active listening and respect, instantly lowering social barriers. Psychologists go on t explain that titles, for instance, clarify social and professional hierarchies. Psychologists note that using formal titles (or even just a surname) can make a person appear more important or competent, which may lead to career benefits like awards or promotions. So, when we specifically name a “virtue” we see in someone (like resilience or humility), they are not just noticing it; they are nurturing it, helping that person see themselves “at their best.” Honoring these names is a form of cultural respect that promotes a positive group culture.

Then, I wanted to know what the Bible said about this. I found that in the Bible, names and titles are far more than labels; they are seen as revelations of character, identity, and destiny. To know a name is often equated with knowing the very essence of a person or deity. The scripture frequently highlights that names carry spiritual weight and authority. When it comes to the name of the Lord, it is treated with extreme reverence and viewed as a source of protection:  For instance, the Second Commandment forbids taking the Lord’s name in vain. This extends beyond speech to how one represents God in their actions. Furthermore, the scriptures assert that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” Romans 10:13. His name is also described as a “fortified tower” where the righteous find safety. The Name of Jesus: The New Testament emphasizes that God has bestowed on Jesus “the name that is above every name,” at which every knee should bow. 

After reading these truths, I concluded that, in contrast to human titles, Jesus and God are identified by many majestic titles that reveal His nature, such as “Wonderful Counselor,” “Mighty God,” and “Prince of Peace.” Therefore, respecting the names of God and Jesus is essential because they represent their holy character, authority, and identity, serving as a direct reflection of a believer’s love and reverence for them. Misusing these names in vain or frivolously dishonors the divine, while honoring them through prayer and life choices brings spiritual blessing, aligns with biblical commandments (Exodus 20:7), and acknowledges their power to save. Consequently, respecting and honoring the names of God and Jesus is a central practice in Christianity, rooted in the belief that a name is not just a label, but a direct representation of a person’s identity, character, and authority. So, when you pray, “Hallowed be Your name,” do so with respect and reverence.