Research source

Thus with all Hindus two names are given to children, one secret and used only for ceremonial purposes, and the…

Date of account: Second edition published 1896
Source: The Popular Religion and Folk-Lore of Northern India, Vol. 2 (of 2)
Reference: The Popular Religion and Folk-Lore of Northern India, Vol. 2 (of 2) · selected passage 2
Rights: public_domain
Language: English
Record updated: 2026-08-25

Record summary

Thus with all Hindus two names are given to children, one secret and used only for ceremonial purposes, and the other for ordinary use

Published source text

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Source passage

Source text · mention only

Thus with all Hindus two names are given to children, one secret and used only for ceremonial purposes, and the other for ordinary use. The witch if she learns the real name can work her evil charms through it. [11] Hence arises the use of many contractions and perversions of the real name and many of the nicknames which are generally given to children, as well as the ordinary terms of endearment which are constantly employed. We have this name taboo coming out in a cycle of folk-tales, such as "Rumpelstilzchen," "Tom Titty Tot," and "Whuppity Stoorie." Here the imp or gnome has a secret name of his own, which he thinks it impossible for any one to find out, and he himself uses it only when he thinks he is sure to be alone.

Historical context

Contextual commentary · mention only

This material belongs to a folklore tradition. Story type, collector, community, transmission and literary editing matter when comparing it with other sources.

Modern context

Contextual commentary · mention only

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