Is it okay to name my daughter Salome?

[Luis_Penedo]

My wife and I want to name our daughter Salome after the the diciple. But my mother insists it is not correct because people will first think about the Salomé whom had John the babtist beheaded. Therefore my mother insists the name should be Mary Salome. Is there a reason I should not name my daughter Salome? We want to be obedient to the Church’s teachings and we would like a biblical name for our child.

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

Can. 855 Parents, sponsors, and the pastor are to take care that a name foreign to Christian sensibility is not given.

Obviously you are choosing a Saint’s name but, of course, there is also a notorious Biblical character with that same name. The priest might question your choice of names but if you explain it I’m sure he’ll understand. He won’t be the only one possibly confused by the choice of names but that doesn’t make it inherently a name foreign to Christian sensibility. Your mother’s suggestion of naming her Mary Salome does have its roots in Christian tradition, Salome is often referred to as Mary Salome.

I think you’re within canon law to name your daughter Salome but I also think your mother might be correct that the odds are many people will confuse which Biblical person she’s name after. Ultimately it’s your decision.