Aleph

First letter of the Hebrew alphabet and Hebrew

"chief, number one"

Aleph Origin and Meaning

The name Aleph is a boy's name of Hebrew origin meaning "chief, number one".

Aleph came into the spotlight when chosen by Israel-born Natalie Portman for her son. Alef is a more common spelling of these related Hebrew baby names.

In the Kabbalah, Aleph/Alef relates to the origin of the universe. The letter Aleph is also the subject of a midrash, a Jewish folktale, which praises its humility in not demanding to start the Bible. (In Hebrew, the Bible begins with the second letter of the alphabet, Bet.) As a reward, Aleph is allowed to start the Ten Commandments.

Aleph Popularity

• 1805 Nameberry 2022