Question

Thanks for writing, and I'd like to both answer your question directly and also make a suggestion.

There are no Jewish laws about naming a child after another person, living or dead. European Jews by custom name after deceased relatives and Sefardim name after living relatives.

Secondly, the nature of your question suggests that one or both of you is in need of clarification and education about what is Jewish law and what is Jewish custom (non-binding tradition). I would urge both of you to attend a class - not just read a book or two as these are subjects that require engaging in discussion with a teacher - in which you can learn about the distinctions.

If baby-naming is already generating "heat," I suggest that you prepare for the future with the kind of competence and intelligence your law title obviously implies. You and your husband are likely to encounter many other issues related to rituals (the most liberal form of Judaism does not permit both baptism and also ritual circumcision), religious education, attending religious services, and attending family celebrations, and you and your husband will have to make difficult decisions as these issues arise.