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The concept of Common name in Christianity

The term "Common name" in Christianity has multiple interpretations across different traditions. It can signify a widely recognized name, such as Darius, or refer to common titles for kings, like 'Agag' and 'Pharaoh.' In Eastern Orthodoxy, it addresses the shared names of the Divine, while the Catholic Church emphasizes shared attributes among the Trinity. Early Christianity sees it as a term promoting unity across genders and communities, although it notes the lack of a shared name between Christians and Jews, highlighting their distinct religious identities.1
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Synonyms: Nickname, Label, Popular name, Familiar name, Ordinary name, Conventional name

In Dutch: Algemene naam; In Finnish: Yleinen nimi; In Spanish: Nombre comĂșn; In German: Allgemeiner Name; In Malay: Nama biasa; In Swedish: Vanligt namn; In French: Nom commun

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Common name'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This phrase refers to the speaker's reason for being bound from Syria, highlighting a shared identity or affiliation among a group of people.[1] (2) The text highlights the absence of a shared common name between Christians and Jews, which would have been expected if they both worshipped the same deity, implying a divergence in their religious identities.[2] (3) This is what the activities share, along with a shared beginning, that is a result of a shared lineage that is described in the provided text.[3] (4) Refers to the unique identification of God, indicating that no one else shares His authority or identity.[4] (5) A universally recognized term that applies to both a geographical location and a divine domain.[5]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) The city was also known by this name, which translates to 'capital,' signifying its importance, as stated in the text.[6] (2) A name that is widely used or recognized, in this context referring to the name Darius which belonged to several Medo-Persian kings.[7] (3) The general name used to identify something; in this context, it refers to the common names of the Nile, including Υeor Αor and Aur (Atur).[8]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) Indicates that 'Agag' may not only refer to a specific individual but also serve as a general title for all Amalekite kings, much like the title 'Pharaoh' in Egypt.[9] (2) A name that was widely used among the Jews, which includes Zephaniah.[10]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) The text mentions that the name Gaius (Lat. Caius) is very common, indicating its prevalence among individuals during the time the Epistles were written.[11]

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) The name that remains proper to the lowest order of angels, as described by Dionysius.[12]

From: Works of St. Anselm

(1) Refers to the shared attributes and identities of the Father, Son, and love, suggesting a collective understanding.[13]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Significance in Eastern Orthodoxy (or the Eastern Orthodox Church):
Eastern Orthodoxy Books

From: The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite

(1) The kindred and common Names of the Divine distinction are what the discourse will advance to, to the best of the ability, by unfolding them.[14]

Eastern Orthodoxy, or Byzantine Christianity, is one of the three main branches of Christianity. It consists of independently governed churches with strong cultural ties to Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Eastern Orthodox theology focuses on the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Believers strive for theosis, or becoming closer to God, through grace and spiritual practices.  

Plural form: Common names.