Comprehensive Character Naming Guide

Introduction to the Naming System in the Seven Seals Legendarium

Names are a cornerstone of identity, a cultural expression conveying lineage, achievements, affiliations, and aspirations. In the Seven Seals Legendarium, the vast scope of its universe necessitates a naming system capable of distinguishing individuals and reflecting the intricate societal and cultural dynamics of a multi-realm setting. Inspired by historical Arabic naming conventions, the system offers a robust structure that enriches the narrative depth and supports the cosmopolitan diversity of the Legendarium.

The traditional Western-style First-Name-Last-Name system proved inadequate for the enormity of the Seven Seals universe. With countless worlds and civilizations spanning the hyperverse, simple name duplication became a significant issue. A more sophisticated system was required to accommodate the diversity of its inhabitants and provide meaningful context about an individual’s background, affiliations, and status.

Drawing inspiration from Arabic naming conventions, the Legendarium’s naming system emphasizes five key components: Ism (Given Name), Kunya (Honorific Name), Nasab (Lineage), Nisbah (Affiliation), and Laqab (Title of Honor). While only three—ism, nasab, and nisbah—are required for identification, the optional kunya and laqab add layers of formality, respect, and storytelling.

1. Ism: The personal name given shortly after birth, the ism is the simplest and most direct part of the naming structure. It is chosen to distinguish individuals but is seldom used alone in formal or public settings, as it is considered overly familiar, especially with elders or authority figures.
2. Kunya: Traditionally referencing one’s children (e.g., "father of" or "mother of"), the kunya has expanded in the Legendarium to symbolize reverence or attachment to significant figures, ideas, or traits. It may denote the parentage of a historical note or be used metaphorically to highlight an individual's achievements.
3. Nasab: This element traces ancestry, establishing familial connections. While traditional usage often emphasizes biological lineage, the Legendarium adapts nasab to include significant figures of influence in a person’s life, reflecting a broader view of family and legacy.
4. Nisbah: Serving as a surname, the nisbah connects individuals to their professions, clans, gens, or places of origin. It functions as a marker of societal or cultural belonging and provides insight into a person’s role within their community.
5. Laqab: Often reserved for notable achievements or defining traits, the laqab is an earned title that celebrates personal accomplishments or admirable qualities. It reflects the values of the society or culture that bestows it and is used primarily in formal settings.

This system transforms names from simple identifiers into comprehensive narratives, providing insight into the individual’s lineage, profession, social affiliations, and personal achievements. Whether distinguishing noble houses, celebrated heroes, or common citizens, the naming conventions align with the Legendarium’s emphasis on individuality and interconnectedness.

• In the Legendarium, name order is (Kunya) + (Ism) + (Laqab) + (Nasab) + (Nisbah)

Ism, the Given Name

An ism (pronounced IZM, as in the final syllable of the word dogmatism) is the foundational component of a person’s name, serving as their personal, proper identifier. This name is typically bestowed shortly after birth, most commonly on the third day, though traditions may vary, with naming sometimes occurring on the day of birth or the seventh day. Examples of isms from historical Arabic contexts include Muhammad (Mohammed), Musa (Moses), Ibrahim (Abraham), and Ahmad.

In traditional social contexts, isms are rarely used to directly address elders or authority figures, as doing so is considered overly familiar or disrespectful. Instead, other name components such as laqab (titles of honor) or kunya (honorific names) are employed in these cases.

A key rule governing the use of isms is the prohibition of "double given names," where one Ism is followed by another. Instances that might appear to break this rule—such as when a laqab or nisbah follows an ism—are clarified by their function: the second element is not an additional ism but serves a descriptive or affiliative purpose. For example, in al-‘Alawi al-Basri, al-‘Alawi signifies an affiliation or attribute, and al-Basri identifies a geographical origin, rather than constituting multiple given names.

Seven Seals Adaptation

In the Seven Seals Legendarium, the ism retains its core purpose as a personal identifier, yet it is embedded in broader cultural practices that enhance its significance. The day on which an ism is given to a child—often several days after birth—is celebrated as their nameday. This day marks the individual’s first formal step into their society and becomes a key milestone that defines their first age in every native year. This ceremony ties personal identity to a sense of time and cultural tradition, creating a deeper connection between the individual and their community.

While isms can be derived from a wide array of inspirations, they often reflect familial ties or societal values. For example, some parents may name their children after ancestors or historical figures of importance, imbuing the ism with a sense of legacy and purpose. Within the Legendarium, an ism is seldom used in isolation in formal or public settings, especially when addressing elders, figures of authority, or individuals of high status. The informal use of an ism is reserved for close friends and family, reflecting a level of intimacy and respect in how names are employed socially.

Kunya: The Honorific Name

A kunya (pronounced COON-yah) is an honorific component of a name that traditionally identifies a person as the father (abu) or mother (umm) of someone, such as Abu Da’ud (the father of David) or Umm Salim (the mother of Salim). It serves as a prefix, adding a layer of respect or reverence to the individual’s name. In many cases, particularly for married individuals, the kunya is derived from the name of their firstborn child. For example, a man named Yusuf who fathers a son named Hasan might be addressed as Abu Hasan Yusuf, while his wife might be called Umm Hasan Aminah.

Beyond its literal application, the kunya can carry metaphorical or symbolic meanings. For example, it may function as a nom de guerre or nickname, highlighting an individual's character, deeds, or attachments. A notable historical example is Abu Nidal, which means "father of struggle"—a title reflecting ideals rather than lineage. Similarly, someone known for a specific trait, action, or bond might be given a kunya like Abu Bakr (father of the camel foal), denoting kindness toward camels.

The use of a kunya fosters a tone of familiarity and respect, bridging personal and communal recognition. While formal, it is also used in casual or peer contexts, reflecting both the social bonds and personal attributes of the bearer.

Seven Seals Adaptation

In the Seven Seals Legendarium, the kunya evolves beyond its historical roots to encompass both traditional and expanded meanings, aligning with the setting’s diverse cultural and societal frameworks. As in its historical usage, the kunya can denote biological or adoptive parentage. However, the Legendarium broadens its scope to include metaphorical or symbolic claims. A kunya might reference an individual’s connection to a figure of historical note, a mentor, or even an abstract ideal.

• For instance, a warrior who trained under a legendary general might be known as Abu Aresh (father of Aresh), symbolically tying them to their mentor’s legacy, regardless of blood relation.

In this context, the kunya functions similarly to a secondary laqab, signifying respect or reverence for an individual’s deeds or qualities. For example, a great scholar known for uncovering lost knowledge might be called Abu Haqq (father of truth). Unlike the laqab, which is typically used in formal or ceremonial contexts, the kunya is often employed more casually among peers, adding a relatable and humanizing element to the name.

A kunya can also include a name segment that claims direct lineage to a parent, often taking forms like:

• Jonsdottir: Daughter of Jonathan.
• Bethsson: Son of Bethany.
• Tysonsblood: Child of Tyson

This form of kunya is used in contexts where gender-specific terms may not be applicable or reasonable for various reasons, or when emphasizing lineage in a way distinct from the nasab (genealogical lineage). If a being’s parent(s) are not included in their nasab due to omission, estrangement, or loss, this type of kunya can provide a way to signify the relationship.

1. A kunya might be adopted to honor a mentor or master. For example, Jonsdottir could be the chosen kunya of a warrior trained by the great swordsman Jonathan, symbolizing their connection and reverence for their teacher.
2. If an individual is adopted or raised by a non-biological parent, they may use this kunya to signify respect and affection. For instance, Bethsson could be the chosen kunya of a child adopted by Lady Bethany, reflecting their bond while maintaining a separate nasab.
3. A kunya might also express religious devotion or affiliation. Tysonsblood could denote membership in a sect or order dedicated to worshiping the deity Tyson, serving as a spiritual or ceremonial identifier rather than a reflection of lineage.

While the nasab records formal genealogical lineage, the kunya provides a more flexible means of expressing relationships, personal values, or symbolic ties. In some cases, an individual’s nasab may fully account for their parentage, but a kunya in this form is still adopted to convey additional meaning or context.

Nasab: An Account of Lineage

A nasab (pronounced NAH-sahb, Arabic: نسب, meaning "lineage") is a vital component of a name that establishes an individual’s ancestry. It serves as a pedigree, indicating familial ties through expressions such as ibn ("son of") or bint ("daughter of"). For example, Hasan ibn Faraj means "Hasan, the son of Faraj," and Sumayya bint Khubbat means "Sumayya, the daughter of Khubbat." Historical figures are often remembered by their nasab rather than their given names, such as ibn Khaldun (the historian), ibn Battuta (the traveler), and ibn Sina (Avicenna, the philosopher).

While most nasabs trace lineage back one or two generations, nobility or historically significant individuals may use multi-generational nasabs, extending three or four generations. Examples include names like Abu Bakr Muhammad ibn Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Ja’far ibn al-Haddad, though such lengthy lineage references are uncommon. Additionally, if the parent referenced in a nasab is identified by their kunya, the term abu becomes abi. For instance, ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib means "‘Ali, the son of Abu Talib" or "the son of the father of Talib."

The term banu (بنو), meaning "the children of" or "descendants of," functions as a broader reference to tribal or familial ancestry, equivalent to the English "House of." Examples include Banu Quraish (the tribe of Muhammad) or Bani Kaab ("the sons of Kaab"). Context determines its grammatical form, with "Banu" or "Bani" being used interchangeably depending on the situation. The root of banu connects it to ibn/bin and reflects its patronymic origins.

Seven Seals Adaptation

The Seven Seals Legendarium adopts and expands the concept of the nasab to reflect its vast, multi-species universe while maintaining the fundamental principles of lineage identification. For common folk, nasabs typically extend one or two generations. Nobility, officials, or individuals of historical importance may trace their lineage three to four generations back, though references to more than five generations are rare. Lengthy nasabs are reserved for formal or ceremonial use and are seldom part of day-to-day identification.

In the Legendarium, ibn and bint do not strictly denote biological parentage. Instead, they highlight the relationship to a figure of importance. For example, a farmer who is the son of both a war hero and a fellow farmer might use the war hero in their nasab for greater social recognition.

If a person is only aware of one parent or if societal norms prioritize one lineage over the other, the nasab will reflect that single parent, regardless of the individual’s gender. For species or cultures without binary gender concepts, banu is universally applied to signify lineage without implying gender-specific terms.

Among the nobility, nasabs prioritize the lineage of ruling families over individuals who marry into those families, emphasizing the continuity of the ruling bloodline. This practice symbolizes respect and reinforces dynastic authority. In some cases, ibn and bint can be combined, such as ibn Fatima bint Omar, showing descent from multiple notable ancestors in a single name.

Individuals may use banu to refer to distant relatives or ancestors of significant renown, especially when tracing lineage to tribal progenitors, dynasties, or gens (clans). For example, Banu Eridus might refer to descendants of a legendary founder, Eridus, even if the connection spans many generations. For alien species or cultures without traditional biological concepts of lineage, banu becomes a default term. This approach ensures inclusivity and adaptability, aligning the nasab system with the Legendarium’s diverse inhabitants.

Nisbah: The Affiliation or Surname

A nisbah (pronounced NISS-bah) is a byname or affiliation component of a name that indicates a person’s occupation, lineage, or geographical origin. It typically follows the ism (given name) or, when present, the nasab (lineage). The nisbah serves as a form of identification that links an individual to a trade, group, or location, offering additional context about their societal or cultural identity.

1. Occupational: Derived from a person’s trade or profession. For example, Muhammad al-Hallaj means "Muhammad, the dresser of cotton."
2. Of Descent: Indicates tribal or family lineage, linking a person to their ancestral or clan affiliation. Examples include Yusuf al-Ayyubi ("Joseph of the Ayyubid family") or Mughirah al-Ju'fi ("Mughirah of the Ju'fi tribe").
3. Geographical: Denotes a person’s place of origin or residence. For example, Yaqub al-Dimashqi translates to "Jacob of Damascus."

Historically, some individuals are better known by their nisbah than by their given names. For instance, al-Bukhari (author of an early hadith collection) is recognized by his nisbah, which identifies him as hailing from Bukhara.

Occasionally, a nisbah might replace the ism entirely in a name. For instance, ‘Ali ibn al-Massisi includes a nisbah, al-Massisi, which could also be used as a standalone identifier. When multiple nisbahs are used, the geographic nisbah is typically listed last, following any occupational or tribal nisbahs. However, names rarely include more than one or two nisbahs for clarity and brevity.

Seven Seals Adaptation

In the Seven Seals Legendarium, the nisbah evolves into a versatile component that reflects the complexity and diversity of the hyperverse. While its foundational principles remain consistent, the adaptation introduces new layers to accommodate the unique social, cultural, and organizational structures within the setting. The nisbah can signify:

1. Occupation: Typically associated with in-demand skills or essential trades. For example, a renowned starship engineer might adopt a nisbah like al-Makani ("the Mechanist").
2. Descent and Affiliation: Unlike the nasab, which traces direct lineage, the nisbah can reference clans, houses, or broader organizations. For instance, al-Arious might refer to a gens (clan) descended from Lord Arion.
3. Geographical Origin: Reserved for individuals without notable trade or group affiliations, such as al-Mars for someone native to Mars.

The Legendarium introduces hierarchical affiliations such as Gens, Stripes, and Houses, which can be reflected in the nisbah:

• Gens: A gens represents a cohesive social unit tied to a common ancestor or shared values. Gens names are prefixed with Al-. For example, Gen Arious might derive its name from Lord Arion.
• Stripes: Subdivisions within gens, named after significant descendants or married-in families, use the prefix al-. For example, al-Areyus might represent a stripe within Gen Arious based on the daughter of Lord Arion.
• Houses: Composed of multiple genes, houses may adopt unique prefixes or suffixes to signify their combined identity. For instance, Gen Arious might merge with the House of Erd to become Gen Erd-Arious.

The Ahl prefix signifies membership or kinship with a social or ethnic group from a specific location. For example, Ahl Mars identifies a person as belonging to the community or culture of Mars, emphasizing a collective identity rather than a specific lineage. For species or cultures without traditional familial structures, the nisbah serves as an adaptive tool for expressing group affiliation. For example, a hive-based species might use a nisbah like al-Zenth to denote their hive cluster.

When multiple nisbahs are used, the order follows traditional rules: occupational or descent-based nisbahs precede geographic ones. For instance, Rafiq al-Hallaj al-Basri indicates a cotton dresser from Basra. Small folk or those without notable trade or lineage typically use only one geographic nisbah, simplifying their names while still providing essential identification. To maintain clarity, only one type of nisbah is typically used in a name. If more than one is employed, the geographical nisbah is often omitted unless it serves as the primary identifier.

Laqab: Title of Honor

A laqab (pronounced LAH-kahb) is a descriptive or honorific byname, often reflecting a person's admirable qualities, achievements, or spiritual alignment. It typically follows the ism and serves to distinguish an individual by highlighting their virtues, accomplishments, or defining traits. Examples of laqabs include al-Rashid ("the Rightly-guided") and al-Fadl ("the Prominent"). For instance, Harun al-Rashid translates to "Aaron, the Rightly-guided."

A notable category of laqabs derives from the pattern ‘Abd ("servant of") followed by one of the 99 names of Allah, such as:

• ‘Abd Allah (Abdullah, "Servant of God")
• ‘Abd al-Rahman ("Servant of the Merciful") The feminine equivalent, Amat ("female servant of"), follows the same structure, such as Amat Allah (Amatullah, "Female servant of God").

Some names function both as an ism and a laqab, such as Rashid and al-Rashid, Hasan and al-Hasan. However, this dual usage is not universal, and most names are distinct in their roles as either an ism or a laqab. While multiple laqabs may be associated with an individual, only one is typically included in formal naming, as it represents the principal title or quality for which they are most renowned.

Seven Seals Adaptation

In the Seven Seals Legendarium, the laqab takes on an elevated role, emphasizing the themes of individuality and merit central to the setting. It is not a required component of a name but serves as a significant marker of distinction for those who have earned it.

A laqab is bestowed upon individuals as a reward for notable deeds, traits, or contributions. For instance, a scholar might be given the laqab al-Hakim ("the Wise"), while a warrior could earn al-Nasir ("the Victorious"). These titles often carry immense social weight, signifying the bearer’s contributions to their community or the broader cosmos.

Though a person may earn multiple laqabs throughout their life, only one is typically included in their formal name to avoid excessive complexity. Exceptions may occur for individuals of extraordinary renown or in ceremonial contexts. The laqab is primarily used in formal or hierarchical settings, especially when addressing social peers or figures of authority. This reflects a deep cultural respect, as using the ism directly is considered overly familiar, and the kunya is reserved for close relationships.

Appropriate Usage of Name Components in the Seven Seals Legendarium

The naming conventions in the Seven Seals Legendarium reflect social hierarchies, cultural norms, and the degree of familiarity between individuals. Each component of a name—ism, kunya, nasab, nisbah, and laqab—carries specific connotations and is employed based on the context (formal or intimate) and the relative station (subservient, equal, superior) of the speaker and the addressed.

Usage Based on Context

In casual or familiar settings, individuals address each other with names that emphasize personal relationships. These contexts often involve family, close friends, or trusted allies:

• Ism: Commonly used among family and close friends. Addressing someone by their ism implies a strong personal bond or emotional closeness. Example: A sibling addressing their brother as "Basil" instead of using a title.
• Kunya: Used affectionately to show respect while maintaining familiarity. A parent might refer to a child’s achievements by calling them Abu Hope (metaphorical). Example: A close friend might call their comrade Abu Laylah, recognizing shared accomplishments.

In professional, hierarchical, or ceremonial situations, individuals use names that convey respect, social standing, and the nature of the relationship:

• Laqab: The laqab is a formal marker, useful for addressing someone in a way that acknowledges their achievements or role without being overly familiar. Example: A soldier addressing a general as al-Nasir ("The Victorious").
• Nisbah: Often used to identify someone’s affiliations or origins in official settings. Example: During a diplomatic meeting, al-Boreas might be used to emphasize their status as a representative of the Boreas region.

Usage Based on Social Hierarchy

When addressing someone of a higher station, the focus is on formality and respect:

• Laqab: The most common form of address for superiors. It emphasizes their achievements or status without presuming familiarity. Example: Referring to a renowned scholar as al-Hakim ("The Wise").
• Kunya: Occasionally used in formal settings to show respect, particularly when the individual’s laqab is not widely recognized. Example: A courtier addressing a queen as Umm Amira.
• Nisbah: Used to establish respect for their lineage, occupation, or origin. Example: A noble might be addressed as al-Taji to highlight their connection to a prestigious gens.

When addressing peers, the approach balances respect with familiarity:

• Ism: Appropriate among equals who share a personal bond or camaraderie. Example: Two soldiers addressing each other by their given names, such as "Yasmin" and "Tariq."
• Laqab: Used to show deference when recognizing an equal’s particular achievements or contributions. Example: Referring to a fellow inventor as al-Makani ("The Mechanist").
• Kunya: Used more casually to acknowledge mutual respect or shared experiences. Example: A traveler referring to their companion as Abu Najir.

When addressing someone of lower station, the emphasis is on clarity and accessibility:

• Ism: The most common form of address for subordinates. It is direct and establishes a sense of authority. Example: A commander addressing a soldier as "Malik."
• Kunya: Occasionally used to show personal interest or respect for a subordinate’s contributions. Example: A general addressing a promising young officer as Umm Asra to acknowledge her potential.
• Nisbah: Used to highlight the individual’s origins or affiliations in a formal context. Example: Referring to a subordinate from a specific gens as al-Areyus.

Practical Scenarios

Diplomatic Meeting

• Addressing a Superior: Use their laqab or nisbah. Example: "We welcome al-Wafaq, who has brought peace to our realms."
• Addressing an Equal: Use their laqab or kunya, depending on the level of formality. Example: "Abu Haqq, we are pleased to see you."
• Addressing a Subordinate: Use their ism or nisbah. Example: "Basil al-Taji, prepare the report."

Family Gathering

• Addressing a Parent: Use their kunya as a sign of respect. Example: "Umm Idris, may I assist you?"
• Addressing a Sibling: Use their ism in an intimate setting. Example: "Layla, have you seen the stars tonight?"

Battlefield

• Addressing a Commander: Use their laqab to reinforce respect and hierarchy. Example: "al-Nasir, the soldiers await your orders."
• Addressing a Peer: Use their ism or kunya in the heat of battle. Example: "Tariq, cover my flank!"
• Addressing Lower Rank: Use their ism to establish authority. Example: "Asra, report to the supply tent."

Honorifics in the Seven Seals Legendarium: Rex and Ski

The Seven Seals Legendarium incorporates a nuanced system of honorifics to convey respect, status, and affection within social hierarchies and personal relationships. Two key honorifics, -rex and -ski, serve distinct purposes and are governed by specific rules of use, reflecting the culture and values of the Legendarium’s societies.

Rex: The Honorific of Authority and Deference

The "-rex" suffix is a formal honorific used to address individuals of superior status or authority. Derived from a word meaning "king" or "ruler," it signifies reverence, respect, and recognition of hierarchical importance. This honorific is reserved for use in formal contexts and follows specific naming conventions. The suffix -rex is appended only to a Laqab (a descriptive title) or a Nisbah (a relational or geographical title).

• Qamar al-Rex: (Qamar, the King of Light—formal recognition of authority in their domain).
• Amin ibn Kareem al-Faris al-Rex: (Amin, the son of Kareem, the Knight—used to formally honor Amin’s noble title and authority).

The -rex suffix is strictly reserved for formal settings such as court proceedings, ceremonial events, or when addressing a person of recognized authority in public.

Ski: The Honorific of Camaraderie and Warmth

The "-ski" suffix is a casual and affectionate honorific, used among close friends or companions to signify warmth, camaraderie, and personal bonds. Unlike the formal and hierarchical nature of -rex, -ski fosters a sense of informality and mutual respect within peer relationships. The suffix -ski is appended exclusively to an Ism (the given or personal name of an individual).

• Hassan-ski: (An affectionate way for a close friend to refer to Hassan, implying warmth and friendliness).
• Lila-ski: (A playful, affectionate nickname for someone named Lila).

The -ski suffix is used in informal or private settings among equals or friends. It is not appropriate in formal or hierarchical contexts.