I have Bad Luck

Shalom! If I feel like my name brings me a bad or a unhealthy mazal is it recommended to change my name , if so do I have to permanently remove me name and comepletly change it or just add on a second name ?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

Although Judaism does have what to say on names giving bad luck, it likely does not apply in your case. For example, naming a child after someone who died tragically or otherwise had a hard life is said to possibly bring bad luck upon one given that name, one should consult a Rabbi when choosing such a name.

However, to change one’s current name due to the feeling it brings bad luck is virtually unheard of. The only time a current name is changes is in the case of one who is seriously ill. It is believed that changing the name of one who is seriously ill can change their “luck.” However, even this is done in only the rarest of instances.

That being said, there are a number of initiatives you can undertake to try to change your mazal. Here are some ideas:

1. Daven (prayer). Be sure to pray as required 3 times a day and perhaps recite Tehillim/Psalms as an “Extra”

2. Look to do acts of kindness for others.

3. Give extra charity

4. Study Torah. This will naturally bring you closer to Hashem/G-d.

The famous work “Chovot Halevavot” in Bitachon chapter 3 teaches that a person should try to occupy himself with things that they natural enjoy and that they naturally excel in. Your mazel is to be found in your nature. Your nature is G-d given. Tap into your talents and desires and make them your primary focus and pursuit.

My G-d bless you with only good mazal

Yam Shel Shlomo Gittin 4:31; Chasam Sofer EH 2:25, Igrot Moshe Y.D. 2:122.