[Opinions] Re: I have a question of my own...
in reply to a message by Hola123
But the dynamics aren't the same. There's a huge difference between a minority culture picking up a name used by the dominant group, and a dominant group co-opting a name used by an oft-repressed minority.
The concept of Cohen is deeply significant to a lot of Jewish people, and I think many would be uncomfortable with members of another ethno-religious group using it. If they're doing it in ignorance it highlights how little they care about others' traditions; and if they're doing it deliberately it's an insult to the importance placed on the Cohen tradition.
Also, I wouldn't call my son Cohen any more than I'd call him Priest, King, Earl, Duke, etc. It's presumptuous, claiming an honour that is not his.
The concept of Cohen is deeply significant to a lot of Jewish people, and I think many would be uncomfortable with members of another ethno-religious group using it. If they're doing it in ignorance it highlights how little they care about others' traditions; and if they're doing it deliberately it's an insult to the importance placed on the Cohen tradition.
Also, I wouldn't call my son Cohen any more than I'd call him Priest, King, Earl, Duke, etc. It's presumptuous, claiming an honour that is not his.
Replies
Wasn't earl used quite a lot in past generations? I know quite a few in their 60's
Yes, but I personally find it embarrassingly aspirational :)