My son Ari was born in early November. We are American, and had decided on the name before October 7 and the Gaza war. As a result of this, I am uncomfortable with the name Ari, because it is a Zionist name. I want a Jewish name, but an English one, e.g., Joseph, Benjamin, etc. For purposes of answering the question, please set aside your affinity toward the State of Israel, Zionism, etc., and just accept that I am Jewish but do not want my sons name connected to Zionism or the State of Israel. Assume just for purposes of the question that I believe Israel is committing a genocide or at least something approaching it. Ill repeat this because its important -- please set aside political beliefs for purposes of the question and just accept the premises. In any case, I am having a very hard time with the name. I regret it when I look at him, and I feel guilty for attaching the Occupation, etc., to his name. I dont want him to have to carry the load of having a name associated with Zionism. So I am thinking of changing his name. Do you have thoughts on whether its ok to change his name?

Shalom We do not generally change people's names since we believe that the name that a person was given is connected to their soul and essence. Obviously, when you gave the name you thought that it was appropriate and fitting for your son. There is a level of Divine inspiration in giving a Hebrew name and this is the one that you chose. I hope that you have much nachat from your son and that he will grow to make you proud. Kol tuv