The pope takes a new name as a longstanding tradition signifying his new role and mission as the leader of the Catholic Church. This practice, which dates back to the 6th century, marks a symbolic "second birth" when the pope assumes his office. Popes typically choose names of previous popes, saints, or figures they wish to emulate or whose legacy they want to continue. The name chosen often reflects the pope's vision or direction for his papacy. The tradition became customary around the 10th century and is now an integral part of a pope's election, even though it is not a doctrinal requirement. It also draws inspiration from royal practices of adopting regnal names different from birth names. The first pope to take a new name was John II in 533, who changed his birth name Mercurius because it was associated with a pagan god. Since then, the choice of the papal name serves as a public statement about the pope's priorities and the legacy he wishes to honor or extend.