Etymology of Weekdays: Heavenly Bodies or Pagan Gods?

It is a common belief that the names of the weekdays in various languages are derived from pagan gods. While there is some truth to this, the reality is a bit more complex and fascinating than it might initially seem. Let us delve into the origins of these names and explore how they have evolved over time.

Where Do the Weekday Names Come From?

Despite the varied origins, the names of the weekdays in many languages, including English, are deeply connected to both the celestial bodies and the deities of ancient cultures. In the Roman calendar, the days of the week were named after the sun, the moon, and five planets associated with Roman gods. However, as these calendars spread, many of the names took on a local flavor, altering the associations but often retaining the original celestial scheme.

English Weekdays and Pagan Origins

In the English calendar, the days of the week are indeed named based on their connection to celestial bodies or pagan gods, as follows:

Sunday: Named for the sun, the Latin word dominica (day of the Lord). Monday: Named for the moon, as luna is the Latin for moon. Tuesday: Named after the Germanic god Tiu, or Tyr, who is often mentioned as Mars in some contexts. Wednesday: Named after the Germanic god Woden or Odin, corresponding to the Latin Mercurius, and the Norse Thor. Thursday: Named after the Germanic god Thor, which is also connected to Jupiter in Roman mythology. Friday: Named for the Norse goddess Frigg or Freyja, with a shared Roman origin for Venus. Saturday: Named for the Roman titan/god Saturn, with a Norse translation meaning "hot water day."

A closer look at these names reveals several interesting patterns and connections. For instance, Tyr in Germanic mythology corresponds to Mars, while Woden, also known as Odin, is primarily associated with Mercury in Roman tradition. Thor is linked to Jupiter, and Frigg is thought to be connected to Venus. This complex web of associations reflects the blend of cultures and the interplay between ancient mythologies.

Similarities in Other Languages

The origins of the weekday names are not unique to English. Similar patterns can be found in other languages, such as French:

Lundi: From the Latin Luna, meaning the Moon. Mardi: From the Latin Marti, corresponding to Mars in Roman mythology. Mercredi: From the Latin Mercurii, named after Mercury, the Roman messenger of the gods. Jeudi: From the Latin Jovis, the Roman king of the gods, Jupiter. Vendredi: From the Latin Veneris, the Roman goddess of love, Venus.

Only two days in the French calendar have a distinctly non-pagan origin:

Samedi: From the Latin Sambati, meaning Sabbath from Judaism. Dimanche: From the Latin Dominicus, meaning 'day of the Lord,' which is obviously inspired by Christian beliefs.

These etymologies provide a fascinating glimpse into the historical and cultural exchanges that have shaped our language and the way we perceive time itself. It is both enlightening and humbling to realize that the days of the week, which we take for granted in our daily lives, carry so much historical and religious significance.

Glory to the True God

While the names of the weekdays are rooted in pagan traditions, we can still use them to do something good and to bring glory to the only true God. The power of these names lies not in their ancient associations, but in the way we choose to live our lives and honor the divine within us.

Conclusion

In summary, the names of the weekdays derive from a fascinating blend of celestial bodies and pagan gods, reflecting the rich tapestry of human culture and history. Whether we choose to see them as remnants of past beliefs or as tools for reflection, the days of the week continue to play a central role in our lives. Let us use this knowledge to enhance our understanding of our world and, ultimately, to bring glory to the true God who created the heavens and the earth.