Mehalah
Mehalah Origin and Meaning
Mehalah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, possibly related to 'Mahala' or 'Mahalath' from the Old Testament. The name may derive from the Hebrew word 'machalah' meaning 'sickness' or 'disease,' though some interpretations suggest connections to words meaning 'tenderness' or 'harp.' Mehalah gained limited recognition through the Victorian novel 'Mehalah: A Story of the Salt Marshes' by Sabine Baring-Gould, published in 1880. The name has a distinctive, rhythmic quality with its three syllables and breathy 'h' sounds. While never achieving widespread popularity, Mehalah appeals to parents drawn to names with biblical connections and antique charm. It carries an air of mystery and old-world elegance that sets it apart from more common biblical names. In contemporary usage, Mehalah remains quite rare, giving it a distinctive quality for those seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.
The name Mehalah in Pop Culture
- Mehalah Sharlandpassionate peasant girl in Sabine Baring,Gould's rustic novel "Mehalah: A Story of the Salt Marshes" (1880)