CelticsStrong
Celtics Basketball => Celtics Talk => Topic started by: Redz on November 14, 2008, 10:25:00 AM
-
I have to say I've found it a little odd to hear people refer to Ray Allen as "Jesus". I understand that the nickname is in reference to the movie role he played as "Jesus Shuttlesworth" way back when. I know people don't think he is the Messiah. I know "Jesus" is a popular real first name in many cultures. I just think as an athlete's nickname it's a little curious.
Ray Allen is a professional athlete who played a role in one movie, many years ago. He is much more identifiable as an NBA player than he is as an actor. If we were talking about Sylvester Stallone, I could see where people might feel comfy calling him "Rocky" or "Rambo" (or even "Cobra"), but Ray Allen had one role, in one movie and the name in question is one that a large portion of our population associates with the Son of God.
To me it seems odd to throw a name of that grandeur around on the same level we would "The Truth" or "Big Ticket".
Personally, I don't use the name "Jesus" to refer to Ray Allen, and though I'm in no way offended by anyone who does, I just wonder if any consideration to the factors I mentioned pass through anyone's minds when they either use the name "Jesus" for Ray Allen or when they read where others have done so.
Thoughts?
-
Yeah... I guess I feel a bit the same way, Redz. I don't get offended by it (even though I'm a Christian), but I think to some it would be borderline sacrilegious.
I think people use it as a nickname because it's an identifiable role; when you say "Jesus Shuttlesworth", most hoops fans know who you're talking about.
-
I also don't feel comfortable calling him Jesus. I'm not too religious, but it just doesn't seem right. If I do call him Jesus, Shuttlesworth will almost always follow.
I think people call him Jesus because unlike Pierce and KG he doesn't really have a nick name. I personally like Sugar Ray, but it's not really used all that much. In my opinion, Sugar Ray is the best possible nick name for him even if it's not very original.
-
I think that the problem is that Ray Allen doesn't really have any other nicknames to use. Even Jesus doesn't fit, but when you have "KG, the Truth, and...Ray?" the last guy in that equation doesn't sound like an all-star. He sounds more like the guy working at Subway that's taking KG and the Truth's sandwich orders.
I propose we could up with a new nickname for Ray to fit properly in this triumvirate.
-
I have no problem calling him
"Jesus". I just don't do it.
There was once a "Sugar" Ray
Leonard. How about "Classy"
Ray Allen? Not flashy enough?
-
What are you talking about? I think it is highly appropriate to use the "Jesus" from his one role of Jesus Shuttleworth as his nickname. I mean doesn't every cal Terry Bollea "Thunder Lips"? ::)
For those that don't know Terry Bollea is Hulk Hogan.
Yeah, I agree Redz. I have less of a problem with it because Jesus is the name of the Messiah, as a matter of fact that doesn't bother me for that reason whatsoever. I just think it's rather dumb to give him a nickname from a movie role he played when he's not an actor.
Is Shaq's nickname "Neon" or "Kazaam"?
Is Kareem's nickname "Roger"?
Is John Salley's nickname "Nate"?
Just never thought it made any sense.
-
Thats one of my all time favorite movies and what stuck out in a lot of people heads with that movie was how well he actually did with that role. I mean he held his own next to Denzel Washington with no acting backround whatsoever. I think the nick name is appropriate if youve seen the movie especially with at one point a pic of him in sports illustrated with a crown and what not. If anything that wasnt appropriate but what else is new with the classy spike lee. Im christian and i find it perfectly approariate because it has nothing to do with the actual messiah. Its on a completley different level.
-
One movie, Redz? I guess you've never seen Harvard Man......well, neither have I.
-
One movie, Redz? I guess you've never seen Harvard Man......well, neither have I.
You beat me to it. Never seen Harvard Man,,,but knowing it exists won me sports trivia one night.
I have no problem with calling him Jesus because the fact that his name was Jesus was an intricle part of the movie so it is memorable. Whenever I see old pictures of him with hair, I hear the montage where like 50 people say Jesus, Jesus.....either way he is not the original Jesus of the hardwood
http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/monroea01.html (http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/monroea01.html)
-
I just call him Ray Ray, I don't call him Jesus either but I know some of his teammates do.
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
I disagree. The Jesus they reference with the nickname isn't the son of God, but Jesus Shuttlesworth. Only the names are the same. Do you feel the same way with Latino men named Jesus? Would you feel differently if Ray's nickname was pronounced "Hay-zeus"?
-
One movie, Redz? I guess you've never seen Harvard Man......well, neither have I.
I stand corrected ;)
And yes, I did think Ray did a credible job in his role as Jesus Shuttlesworth
And no, I have not seen Harvard Man...i'll look it up
-
Maybe because I'm a godless sodomite, I really don't care that he's called Jesus.
-
I'm neutral on this subject I guess. It doesn't bother me at all but I don't usually call him that. I like when Grande calls him Sugar Ray but that isn't original. I usually just stick with Ray Ray, or "the Smart Allen."
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
I disagree. The Jesus they reference with the nickname isn't the son of God, but Jesus Shuttlesworth. Only the names are the same. Do you feel the same way with Latino men named Jesus? Would you feel differently if Ray's nickname was pronounced "Hay-zeus"?
I saw the movie. I know what you are saying. That is why I said that most people aren't doing it that way, however many people think that is what they are saying and using it in that context. For that reason I cringe. And yes, if I were Latino I wouldn't name my kid Jesus. Vain repetition trivializes it IMO. I know the Latino culture is doing it out of respect just like Maria, however I still cringe for some reason. Not passing judgement on them doing it, just how it hits me personally.
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
I disagree. The Jesus they reference with the nickname isn't the son of God, but Jesus Shuttlesworth. Only the names are the same. Do you feel the same way with Latino men named Jesus? Would you feel differently if Ray's nickname was pronounced "Hay-zeus"?
I saw the movie. I know what you are saying. That is why I said that most people aren't doing it that way, however many people think that is what they are saying and using it in that context. For that reason I cringe. And yes, if I were Latino I wouldn't name my kid Jesus. Vain repetition trivializes it IMO. I know the Latino culture is doing it out of respect just like Maria, however I still cringe for some reason. Not passing judgement on them doing it, just how it hits me personally.
Interesting. If you don't mind me asking, what division of Christianity do you subscribe to (if you do)?
-
Wow, I can't believe this is even a subject. It amazes me what makes people uncomfortable. I tend to agree with Champkind. People have the name Jesus. I have never really called him Jesus, but that's not to say that I wouldn't. I saw the name of the subject line, and thought, "it couldn't be...", but it was. As long as people aren't trashing Jesus/religion, it really shouldn't matter what we call people.
-
I saw him referred to as "Jesus" earlier and if I wasn't on my way out I would have mentioned it because I've never really liked him being called by that name. You could put it down to sacrilege and the fact I'm Christian, I think it's a little extreme calling him by that name. It's not a case of being "uncomfortable" it's a case of some narrow minded people belittling the name "Jesus" and what it stands for.
I personally refer to him as Ray Ray as it has a better ring to it.
-
Wow, I can't believe this is even a subject. It amazes me what makes people uncomfortable. I tend to agree with Champkind. People have the name Jesus. I have never really called him Jesus, but that's not to say that I wouldn't. I saw the name of the subject line, and thought, "it couldn't be...", but it was. As long as people aren't trashing Jesus/religion, it really shouldn't matter what we call people.
Well, I brought it up because the thought does cross my mind when I hear it and I wondered if it does so with others as well (or if it doesn't for that matter).
I guess my perspective and curiosity about this is in no small part because I'm Jewish and I don't want to say something that could be construed as offensive to others beliefs somehow. In that regard I'm probably more sensitive and respectful about it, perhaps even more so than I need to be in this case. But I was curious how others felt about it.
-
It's not even referencing Jesus Christ. The character was supposed to be named after Earl Monroe... who was actually nicknamed "Black Jesus".... which I guess would be way more offensive. And a lot of people refer to Larry Bird as "the basketball Jesus".
The name of the character was an interesting part in the movie. And the fact that the character wasn't named after the legend of JC, but the legend of Earl Monroe was made clear. They dedicate a whole scene from the movie in explaining how the character felt about the name and his father explaining why he did it. I think a lot of people still think of Ray from that movie. Anyone whose ever had a girlfriend and forced her to watch a basketball game knows what I'm talking about. "Hey... isn't that Jesus from "He Got Game"??". I also think the name sticks, because the character of Jesus Shuttlesworth (portrayed as LeBron-esque) was actually supposed to be a better player than Ray himself. Although we are basketball junkies, the sad fact remains that in the general population Ray might end up being just as famous for playing Jesus Shuttlesworth as he is for being an allstar guard.
It's true he doesn't really have any other nickname, because technically "Ray" already is his nickname. You'll hear some people say, "beautiful shot by Walter Ray Allen" as sorta a reverse-nickname.
-
i'm a christian and i'm not really offended by this...i understand the reference to the movie.
however, i am a bit disturbed when i hear references made to our president-elect as "the messiah" and use examples of miracles (in jest, i understand) being done by him. that is a DIRECT reference to Christ Himself.
but Jesus also called Himself "The Truth" in John 14. ;)
-
Me and my buddies call him "Ray Ray".
But you know, even though Ray Allen has only been in that one movie.. it was a really excellent film.
EDIT: and maybe someone pointed this out already but in the Movie I do not think his character is even named after the son of God rather after another Basketball player. Anyone remember who?
-
Jesus is a common name. They aren't calling him Jesus Christ.
-
It's not even referencing Jesus Christ. The character was supposed to be named after Earl Monroe... who was actually nicknamed "Black Jesus".... which I guess would be way more offensive. And a lot of people refer to Larry Bird as "the basketball Jesus".
The name of the character was an interesting part in the movie. And the fact that the character wasn't named after the legend of JC, but the legend of Earl Monroe was made clear. They dedicate a whole scene from the movie in explaining how the character felt about the name and his father explaining why he did it. I think a lot of people still think of Ray from that movie. Anyone whose ever had a girlfriend and forced her to watch a basketball game knows what I'm talking about. "Hey... isn't that Jesus from "He Got Game"??". I also think the name sticks, because the character of Jesus Shuttlesworth (portrayed as LeBron-esque) was actually supposed to be a better player than Ray himself. Although we are basketball junkies, the sad fact remains that in the general population Ray might end up being just as famous for playing Jesus Shuttlesworth as he is for being an allstar guard.
It's true he doesn't really have any other nickname, because technically "Ray" already is his nickname. You'll hear some people say, "beautiful shot by Walter Ray Allen" as sorta a reverse-nickname.
No one is disagreeing that most people are referring to that. Stating that the film is referring to someone who's nickname is definitely directed that way doesn't help your point though. I knew that was the reason, which is likely why it makes me feel that way. You can call him what you want, however obviously there are more than just a couple people who cringe as well. I'm doubting this thread will change anyone's mind one way or the other...
-
I'm neutral on this subject I guess. It doesn't bother me at all but I don't usually call him that. I like when Grande calls him Sugar Ray but that isn't original. I usually just stick with Ray Ray, or "the Smart Allen."
Easily the best nickname for Ray Allen that I have ever seen.
-
I'm neutral on this subject I guess. It doesn't bother me at all but I don't usually call him that. I like when Grande calls him Sugar Ray but that isn't original. I usually just stick with Ray Ray, or "the Smart Allen."
Easily the best nickname for Ray Allen that I have ever seen.
Derrr...I just finally got that one ;D
anyone seen the Smart Redz?
-
I'm neutral on this subject I guess. It doesn't bother me at all but I don't usually call him that. I like when Grande calls him Sugar Ray but that isn't original. I usually just stick with Ray Ray, or "the Smart Allen."
Easily the best nickname for Ray Allen that I have ever seen.
Derrr...I just finally got that one ;D
anyone seen the Smart Redz?
I don't think your dad has posted today.
-
I'm neutral on this subject I guess. It doesn't bother me at all but I don't usually call him that. I like when Grande calls him Sugar Ray but that isn't original. I usually just stick with Ray Ray, or "the Smart Allen."
Easily the best nickname for Ray Allen that I have ever seen.
Derrr...I just finally got that one ;D
anyone seen the Smart Redz?
I don't think your dad has posted today.
Fair enough..I yam what I yam :)
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
I disagree. The Jesus they reference with the nickname isn't the son of God, but Jesus Shuttlesworth. Only the names are the same. Do you feel the same way with Latino men named Jesus? Would you feel differently if Ray's nickname was pronounced "Hay-zeus"?
One of my friends' brothers -- an immigrant from Cuba -- attended Catholic school here, and the nuns refused to call him by his first name, Jesus. They called him by his middle name instead.
The name is still considered a taboo in many of the Germanic-speaking countries.
-
I understand the point of this thread. However this name is very common in Spanish and Latino-American cultures, which means quite a big portion of the world's population ;)
No offense should be taken for calling him Jesus. Nobody thinks of Jesus Christ among these countries and cultures, it's a way to honour the faith by some families to call their kids Jesus or Maria...nothing blasphemeous or anything like that! In countries like Spain, you needed to name your kids with a christian name before, i doubt if the "rule" is still there.
And i like Jesus name for Ray Ray, he is a decent and classy guy ;)
-
Me and my buddies call him "Ray Ray".
But you know, even though Ray Allen has only been in that one movie.. it was a really excellent film.
EDIT: and maybe someone pointed this out already but in the Movie I do not think his character is even named after the son of God rather after another Basketball player. Anyone remember who?
Earl the Pearl...it has been mentioned in a couple posts
-
What about someone with a name like God Shamgod?
-
What about someone with a name like God Shamgod?
haha, i knew someone would bring him up
-
I understand the point of this thread. However this name is very common in Spanish and Latino-American cultures, which means quite a big portion of the world's population ;)
No offense should be taken for calling him Jesus. Nobody thinks of Jesus Christ among these countries and cultures, it's a way to honour the faith by some families to call their kids Jesus or Maria...nothing blasphemeous or anything like that! In countries like Spain, you needed to name your kids with a christian name before, i doubt if the "rule" is still there.
And i like Jesus name for Ray Ray, he is a decent and classy guy ;)
If no one is thinking of him when they call their kids that, how is it honoring him?! That makes no sense.
-
I think the reason the nickname has stuck is for lack of another better nickname but also because the role was a really memorable one. He Got Game is in my book the best basketball film ever (yeah, I'm including Blue Chips and Hoosiers so if Roy Hobbs comes gunning for me... you know who did it).
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
I remember the day we traded for him... I was living in Ohio, and my friend from Iowa comes up to me and just says "Jesus, huh? Your team is saved."
Personally, I find El BJ's name offensive. "King James", get out of here. I'm not calling someone younger than me King, especially when he came into the league and hadn't done a thing yet.
-
Personally, I find El BJ's name offensive. "King James", get out of here. I'm not calling someone younger than me King, especially when he came into the league and hadn't done a thing yet.
So true. I can think of a nickname for him if we just re-arrange those letters. I really don't like LeBron. I think my dislike for him is spurred on even more by the media love for him.
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
-
I think it's absolutely appropriate to use it as a nickname despite it being one movie filmed some time ago. Think about it....
How many athletes star as the lead character in a big budget movie?
And more so, a movie about their sport, filmed bye famous basketball junkie Spike Lee.
It might have only been a blip in Ray's long career, but it sets up perfectly as a nickname. I think people like saying it because it implies they are serious basketball fans familiar with "He Got Game" and it just kind of caught on. Besides, it's a catchy name for a nickname because of obvious reasons.
I don't get offended by it and honestly think anyone who finds it even borderline sacrilegious needs to lighten up and take a quick trip to Mexico. There are Jesuses everywhere.
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
I'm not saying that's what he was named after in the movie. But throughout the film his name comes up as being used religiously. There are montages of magazine covers depicting him as the savior. People use the name in that context throughout the film. There is a definite, and intentional, religious overtone.
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
Now I think that's a whole other kettle of fish in terms of offensive nicknames (not that it offends me in particular).
I think the main problem with Jesus is that certain people belittle the name. I've got no problem with people being called Jesus, but you can't deny that there are people who use it in a sacrilegious and maybe even disrespectful manner. That's what annoys me.
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
Now I think that's a whole other kettle of fish in terms of offensive nicknames (not that it offends me in particular).
I think the main problem with Jesus is that certain people belittle the name. I've got no problem with people being called Jesus, but you can't deny that there are people who use it in a sacrilegious and maybe even disrespectful manner. That's what annoys me.
Wasn't Jesus a man of color? What's wrong with Black Jesus? Or is this a whole other conversation regarding the Roman Catholic church trying to make us believe that Jesus was a pasty white European?
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
Now I think that's a whole other kettle of fish in terms of offensive nicknames (not that it offends me in particular).
I think the main problem with Jesus is that certain people belittle the name. I've got no problem with people being called Jesus, but you can't deny that there are people who use it in a sacrilegious and maybe even disrespectful manner. That's what annoys me.
Wasn't Jesus a man of color? What's wrong with Black Jesus? Or is this a whole other conversation regarding the Roman Catholic church trying to make us believe that Jesus was a pasty white European?
Haha. Jesus was a Jew, are Jewish people considered people of color? It depends on how you interpret it, I don't think Jesus was white, but he wasn't black either and I think the term "Black Jesus" is very controversial. The term itself doesn't bother me, but it's the intent of some people.
-
James Edwards, from the 80's Pistons, was called Buddha. Thats the same thing, isn't it?
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
Now I think that's a whole other kettle of fish in terms of offensive nicknames (not that it offends me in particular).
I think the main problem with Jesus is that certain people belittle the name. I've got no problem with people being called Jesus, but you can't deny that there are people who use it in a sacrilegious and maybe even disrespectful manner. That's what annoys me.
Wasn't Jesus a man of color? What's wrong with Black Jesus? Or is this a whole other conversation regarding the Roman Catholic church trying to make us believe that Jesus was a pasty white European?
I think that the problem with "Black Jesus" is that it implies he is the "Black Savior." Christians believe that there is only 1 savior and referring to someone else that way is like insulting their beliefs. Referring to Larry Legend as "the Basketball Jesus" is similar, but some might not take as much offense because of the basketball part, it would depend on the strength of their convictions... and possibly if they were Celtics fans or not.
-
James Edwards, from the 80's Pistons, was called Buddha. Thats the same thing, isn't it?
Not really, theoretically anyone can be a Buddha once they reach supreme enlightenment.
-
I either call Ray Allen one of two nicknames: "Jesus" or "Ray-Ray".
I don't know where "Ray-Ray" came from, but I like it and use it.
Obviously "Jesus" is from He Got Game, but I particularly like calling him that because his smooth stroke is the GOD of all smooth strokes.
I'm all for opening the doors for a new nickname, but I don't see one being concocted because "Sugar Ray" is terrible and unoriginal, and originality is what it's all about with a nickname. Hence why we can't call Walker "Sky".
That's my 2 cents.
-
Im not gonna touch all the religeon talk with a 10 foot pole.
I never call Ray Allen Jesus. Not because it offends me, but b/c its not a nickname he earned on the court. The Truth, Big Ticket, were both names Paul and KG earned with their Rep on the court.
Ray Allen should have a nickname, but Ray Allens never been a highlight reel type player, or a real vocal personality, and his name is very bland, nothing you can really do with it. Hes always been a quiet player, whos been a professional.
He should have some kind of "silent assassin" type nickname. Or some kind of nickname based on how beautiful his shot looks, Sweetness would be perfect if Walter Payton didnt already have it.
....when religeons involved, no matter how small of a matter it might be, theres someone thatll always get offended. Thats also why I liked the way to MODs went by pulling the plug on the Political Topics. I know everyone was kind of irritated b/c this is a social setting and it was in the off topic area, but I look at these boards in the same regard I'd look at any other social situation where many different types of people are conversating, such as party. Every party ive always been at, you dont talk about politics, religeon, and other peoples wives. Always been a rule Ive lived by.
-
It is funny that someone mentioned calling him "The Smart Allen" because I call Tony "The Worse Allen."
When Ray was in the slam dunk contest as a rookie, the announcers kept pushing that his nickname was "The Candyman." (Most likely in reference to to Sugar Ray.
I have no problem with people calling him Jesus. I just don't.
Some people just can't get nicknames to stick without sounding very contrived. He also doesnt have an abbreviate-able name like "Perk" or an interesting name like "Rondo" or a neat sounding name like "House." He is just Ray Allen.
-
Wow,
it's been a long time since I have gone back and read every single post in a thread. Well done Redz!
From a religious standpoint the name doesn't impact me at all, I'm not into the nickname simply because the movie came out so long ago and the reference has nothing to do with his time here in Boston or a standout moment in the NBA.
Basically, I think the nickname is a bit moot.
My hats off to so many of you for the thoughtful comments. Nice to read clear concise ideas on what could potentially be a divisive topic and even nicer to see the respect for other's beliefs!!
I've got a lot of well earned TPs to hand out.
-
i call him jesus all the time, and its mostly becuase he got game has been one of my favorite movies for a long time. almost got a shuttlesworth jersey made. BTW i'm not religious at all.
-
I'm religious and I really don't see the problem. You don't get mad at Mohammed Sene's parents for naming their son that even with him not being a prophet. It is the same thing with Adrian Peterson being the Purple Jesus.
If you can't distinguish a basketball player from The Savior then I think it is more of a personal issue than population issue.
-
Doesn't bother me at all since I'm not religious. Not that I really use that nickname for ray anyway. Ray Ray has always seemed to stick for me.
-
Like some of the others, I tend to cringe a little when Ray is called 'Jesus'. Let's face it, regardless of his He Got Game role and the commonality of the name in certain countries, the nickname Jesus evokes a cultural connotation with Jesus, the Christ. I think it's a huge stretch in anyone's book to deny this connection, and rightly so. Jesus' claims make him easily the most polarizing and debated person in history. Believe or disbelieve, the name Jesus represents some sort of savior, pointing back to Jesus Christ who is the savior of world, or at the very least, is on a pop-culture level.
In any case, it's good to read everyone's opinions on this, and see a lot of rational discussion. As some have noted, it's not just Ray who 'suffers' from a Jesus label. It's just interesting because those who believe in Jesus would never coin that nickname for anyone, yet those who would coin it still acknowledge the salvation he represents.
-
The truth is a dumb nickname and who knows what the heck shaq meant by it(imo he is not a really bright guy)
jesus shuttleworth is also dumb.
I'd nickname pierce mr 4th quarter
-
The truth is a dumb nickname and who knows what the heck shaq meant by it(imo he is not a really bright guy)
jesus shuttleworth is also dumb.
I'd nickname pierce mr 4th quarter
The Truth might be the best nickname ever.
What Shaq meant by "The Truth" is pretty simple. Shaq was basically saying that Pierce as a talent is undeniable, his skill is unquestionable, as a player he can't be doubted. All that in two words "The Truth". Scratch that "The Truth" is best nick name ever, and it fits Pierce so well.
-
I am an athiest, but I think if I was a Christian this might offend me a bit. Because in the context of the film, the name is religiously charged, per one of my favorite movie quotes.
"What kind of name is Jesus?"
"It's a biblical name."
"Yeah, no kidding."
Great quote, but he goes on to explain that he is not named for Jesus Christ, but after Black Jesus - Earl the Pearl
Now I think that's a whole other kettle of fish in terms of offensive nicknames (not that it offends me in particular).
I think the main problem with Jesus is that certain people belittle the name. I've got no problem with people being called Jesus, but you can't deny that there are people who use it in a sacrilegious and maybe even disrespectful manner. That's what annoys me.
Wasn't Jesus a man of color? What's wrong with Black Jesus? Or is this a whole other conversation regarding the Roman Catholic church trying to make us believe that Jesus was a pasty white European?
Haha. Jesus was a Jew, are Jewish people considered people of color? It depends on how you interpret it, I don't think Jesus was white, but he wasn't black either and I think the term "Black Jesus" is very controversial. The term itself doesn't bother me, but it's the intent of some people.
Some Black Israelites think so. ;)
-
I find it a bit offensive and cringe every time someone calls him that quite honestly. Maybe it is just #3 of the ten commandments. I know most people aren't doing it with a sacrilegious thought, but it is there. They are insinuating that he is the Messiah of the basketball court, which is a sacrilegious comparison.
I call him Jesus. Jesus is one of the most famous characters in the best known book in literature. I don't see anything offensive about using the name.
There are way too many religions with way too many commandments to take someones #3 seriously.
-
eh... i'm okay with calling him jesus. not many nba players have acted in movies and they don't refer to him as jesus often enough for it to be a problem.
-
another jesuses
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1153/990859248_26da01abee.jpg)jesus bengalo(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/79/230032201_bc48cbf824.jpg)jesus lopez(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/119/279094955_8e5a29e8a4.jpg)jesus and his wife(http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bHPGDR5JWQkAhVyjzbkF/SIG=13q5mniqc/EXP=1226792774/**http%3A//www.latinoamericanosdesaparecidos.org/costa_rica/fotos_desaparecidos/f_2025_jesus-rodriguez.jpg)jesus rodriguez...not related(http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bHMRDh5JXQoAZ2OjzbkF/SIG=12ov1af0j/EXP=1226792849/**http%3A//www.ci.glendale.az.us/Police/images/JesusAcosta-Rodriguez.jpg)jesus acosta
Shame on them :)
source yahoo images
P.S. Jesus is a pretty common name in latin america, for man AND women
-
I know u know Redz i am just in my messing with your head journey ;D
another jesuses
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1153/990859248_26da01abee.jpg)jesus bengalo(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/79/230032201_bc48cbf824.jpg)jesus lopez(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/119/279094955_8e5a29e8a4.jpg)jesus and his wife(http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bHPGDR5JWQkAhVyjzbkF/SIG=13q5mniqc/EXP=1226792774/**http%3A//www.latinoamericanosdesaparecidos.org/costa_rica/fotos_desaparecidos/f_2025_jesus-rodriguez.jpg)jesus rodriguez...not related(http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bHMRDh5JXQoAZ2OjzbkF/SIG=12ov1af0j/EXP=1226792849/**http%3A//www.ci.glendale.az.us/Police/images/JesusAcosta-Rodriguez.jpg)jesus acosta
Shame on them :)
source yahoo images
P.S. Jesus is a pretty common name in latin america, for man AND women
-
The truth is a dumb nickname and who knows what the heck shaq meant by it(imo he is not a really bright guy)
jesus shuttleworth is also dumb.
I'd nickname pierce mr 4th quarter
The Truth might be the best nickname ever.
What Shaq meant by "The Truth" is pretty simple. Shaq was basically saying that Pierce as a talent is undeniable, his skill is unquestionable, as a player he can't be doubted. All that in two words "The Truth". Scratch that "The Truth" is best nick name ever, and it fits Pierce so well.
I always thought that it was also a subtle play, not a dig, on Iverson's nickname.