Some Questions Regarding the Use of the Expressions “Jesus” and “Mary”

Abstract

Using the debate over how to render the name of Jesus in Vietnamese as a point of departure, this article explores broader issues in linguistics, biblical exegesis, and Christology within Vietnamese theological discourse. The author argues that recently popularized phrases such as “Đức Giêsu” and “Đức Maria” are both grammatically problematic in Vietnamese and discontinuous with long-standing Catholic usage. On the basis of classical lexicographical evidence and traditional ecclesial language, “đức” functions as an honorific attached to a title (e.g., “Đức Chúa Giêsu,” “Đức Mẹ Maria”), rather than directly to a personal name; therefore “Đức Giêsu/Đức Maria” should be avoided. The paper also examines exegetical claims about kyrios (Kurios) and notes that Vietnamese “Chúa” has a comparable semantic range, so systematically replacing “Chúa Giêsu” can carry unintended theological and pastoral consequences. The conclusion recommends returning to established forms while allowing contextual renderings in direct speech where appropriate.