View Message

Nikolaus etc. exact meaning?
I've always wondered how the two elements of the name ("victory" and "people") are connected.
- Is the people the winner? (And who would be the loser?)
- Is the bearer the winner? (And again: Who would be the loser? The people? Some other people?)
- Is there no connection between the two elements?
- Is the interpretation of the second element wrong as some say?Looking forward to your suggestions
Andy
vote up1vote down

Replies

Good question. Most simply translate 'victorious people', which may be a great name for a people, but not very logical for a person.
I found one other interpretation that I like:
'Victorious one who emerges FROM AMONG his people'.
vote up1vote down
This makes more sense! Thank you!
I think "victorious FOR his people" doesn't sound bad either, thinking of the Olympic (or other) Games …
Andy
vote up1vote down
BtN says that, and I quote, "From the Greek name Nikolaos which meant "victory of the people" from Greek nike "victory" and laos "people"."
So I would guess that it means the people are the winners. I don't knowApril
vote up1vote down