Days of the Week Naming

Study Notes

Days of the Week

Order of the Days

The days of the week in the Western world, including English, are named after the seven classical planets recognized in Hellenistic astrology. These planets were in turn named after contemporary deities, following the system introduced by the Sumerians and adopted by the Babylonians from whom the Roman Empire borrowed the system. While the order of the planets varies according to different models, such as the Ptolemaic system of planetary spheres, the days are always named in the following sequence:

Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

This naming convention has persisted through various cultures and traditions over the centuries, with slight variations in names and interpretations due to cultural influences and linguistic changes.

Names of the Days

Sunday

Also known as Dies Solis in Latin or Kyriake in Greek, Sunday is named for the Roman sun god Sol Invictus and in Christian tradition, it represents the Lord's Day. It is often celebrated as a holy day in many religions, particularly in Christianity where it is observed as the Sabbath. In some cultures, Sunday is associated with rest and relaxation, reflecting its status as the first day of the week.

Monday

Monday takes its name from the Moon goddess Selene in Greek mythology. In Christian tradition, Monday is associated with fasting, as it is considered the day for preparation leading up to Tuesday, which begins the holy season of Lent. In some non-Christian traditions, Monday is known as a day of rest or a gathering day.

Tuesday

Tuesday is named after Mars, the Roman god of war and agriculture. In many cultures, Tuesday is considered a fortunate day for undertaking new tasks or projects, as Mars represents strength and courage. In Christianity, Tuesday is observed as a fast day, and it marks the day Jesus and Elijah appeared to Moses on Mount Transfiguration.

Wednesday

Wednesday takes its name from Mercury, the Roman god of commerce, trade, and travel. It was believed that Wednesday was an auspicious day for making contracts or deals, as well as for communication and writing. In Christian tradition, Wednesday is associated with fasting and prayer.

Thursday

Thursday is named after Jupiter, the king of the gods in Roman mythology. It was considered a day of celebration and feasting, as well as a time for legal proceedings. In Christianity, Thursday is observed as a day of preparation leading up to Friday, which marks Good Friday, the commemoration of Jesus' crucifixion.

Friday

Friday takes its name from Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. In some cultures, Friday is considered a lucky day for weddings and other romantic events. In Christianity, Friday is observed as a day of mourning and repentance, representing the passion and death of Jesus Christ.

Saturday

Saturday takes its name from Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture, wealth, and time. It was considered a day for rest and relaxation, as well as a time for preparing for Sunday's religious observances. In Christian tradition, Saturday is observed as a day of preparation leading up to Sunday, which marks Easter or the resurrection of Jesus.

In summary, the days of the week are named after the classical planets recognized in Hellenistic astrology and derived from various cultural traditions throughout history. Their order reflects the astronomical position of these celestial bodies, while their names have been influenced by the gods and mythologies associated with them.

Description

Explore the origins and meanings behind the names of the days of the week in Western culture, derived from classical planets and ancient mythologies. Learn about the significance of each day and its associations with celestial bodies, gods, and cultural traditions.