Jewish Boy Names

  1. Shachar
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "dawn"
  2. Sasson
    • Origin:

      Judeo-Italian
    • Meaning:

      "joy, happiness"
  3. Sroel
    • Description:

      Sroel is a rare masculine name that serves as a Yiddish variant of Israel. The name Israel has deep biblical roots, originating from Hebrew meaning 'one who struggles with God' or 'God contends.' Sroel emerged primarily in Eastern European Jewish communities as a vernacular form used in everyday life. While Israel remained the formal name for religious and official purposes, Sroel was often used conversationally. This name carries significant cultural and religious heritage within Jewish communities but remains quite uncommon in mainstream usage. As with many traditional Yiddish names, its usage declined following World War II and subsequent assimilation, though some families continue to use it to honor ancestral traditions.
  4. Yoav
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "praise Jehovah"
    • Description:

      Yoav is a variation of Joab, a name featured prominently in the Old Testament.
  5. Hersz
    • Description:

      Hersz is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, primarily used in Jewish communities of Eastern European descent. It functions as a variant of Hirsch, which means 'deer' or 'stag' in Yiddish and German. The name carries symbolic significance in Jewish tradition, where deer represent gentleness and grace. Hersz was relatively common among Jewish men in pre-WWII Poland and surrounding regions but became less frequent following the Holocaust. Today, it remains rare globally but maintains cultural significance for families honoring their Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. The name's distinctive pronunciation and spelling reflect its rich linguistic origins spanning Yiddish, Hebrew, and Eastern European influences.

  6. Abramo
    • Origin:

      Judeo-Italian variation of Abraham, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"
  7. Ram
    • Origin:

      Arabic, Sanskrit, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "archer; pleasing; exalted"
    • Description:

      One of the most familiar, and assertive, names found throughout the Middle East and India, Ram has an assertive and solid air about it. Derived from a number of different origins, in English speaking countries, it may also be considered a word name, associated with a horned male sheep — or a form of computer memory.
  8. Betzalel
    • Description:

      Betzalel is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, appearing in the Torah as the chief artisan of the Tabernacle. The name means 'in the shadow (or protection) of God,' combining 'b'tzel' (in the shadow of) and 'El' (God). In Jewish tradition, Betzalel is associated with divine creativity and craftsmanship, as the biblical Betzalel was divinely inspired with skills in various arts. The name is uncommon outside of Jewish communities but has consistent usage within them, especially in Israel. Betzalel carries spiritual significance while honoring Jewish heritage. The name's biblical connections make it meaningful for religiously observant families, while its artistic associations appeal to those valuing creativity and craftsmanship.

  9. Motti
    • Description:

      Motti is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, commonly used as a diminutive form of Mordechai (meaning 'warrior' or 'servant of Marduk'). Popular primarily within Jewish communities, Motti carries a warm, familiar quality while maintaining connection to its more formal root name. In Israel, it's a well-recognized nickname with a friendly, approachable character. The name gained some visibility in broader culture through notable bearers like Israeli football manager Motti Ivanir. While remaining relatively uncommon outside Jewish communities, Motti represents cultural heritage while offering an affectionate, accessible alternative to its longer form.
  10. Dor
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "generation"
  11. Cheskel
    • Description:

      Cheskel is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, primarily used in Jewish communities. It's a variation of Yechezkel (Hebrew for Ezekiel), which means 'God will strengthen' or 'God strengthens.' This traditional name carries deep religious significance, as Ezekiel was an important prophet in the Hebrew Bible. Cheskel remains relatively uncommon outside of Orthodox Jewish communities, where it continues to be passed down through generations. The name reflects cultural heritage and religious devotion, often given to honor ancestors. While not widely used in mainstream society, Cheskel has a distinctive sound and meaningful etymology that connects its bearers to ancient traditions and spiritual values.

  12. Zelman
    • Description:

      Zelman is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, derived from the name Zalman, which itself is a variant of Solomon. The name Solomon comes from the Hebrew word 'shalom' meaning 'peace.' Zelman was commonly used among Eastern European Jewish communities, particularly in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. As a name with strong Jewish cultural ties, it often appeared in immigrant communities in the United States and other Western countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While less common today, Zelman represents a connection to Jewish heritage and tradition, and might be chosen by families seeking to honor ancestors or cultural roots.

  13. Yedidia
    • Origin:

      Hebrew variation of Jedidiah, "beloved of God"
    • Meaning:

      "beloved of God"
    • Description:

      This spiritual name is a variation of Jedidiah - a name which as been climbing up the US charts. In the Bible, this name is bestowed upon Solomon by the prophet Nathan..
  14. Melech
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "king"
    • Description:

      A strong and regal sounding name that appears in the Old Testament, Melech is also spelled as Meilech and Melek. The name is related to Melchior — one of the three kings said to have visited Jesus — and to the Arabic Malik, as both ultimately derive from Maloka, a royal title used in ancient Assyria and Babylonia.
  15. Yonah
    • Origin:

      Hebrew variation of Jonah
    • Meaning:

      "dove"
    • Description:

      This form of the stylish Old Testament name is too close to the feminine Yona.
  16. Itay
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "with me"
    • Description:

      Alternate spelling of Itai.
  17. Eliav
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is my father"
  18. Ivri
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Hebrew"
    • Description:

      The plural, ivrim, is the Hebrew word for the Hebrew people.
  19. Uzziah
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "my power is Yahweh"
    • Description:

      Uzziah was an Old Testament king of Judah, among other personages. The initial U is a bit funky for modern tastes; we don't see this one enjoying a revival ala Isaiah and Noah anytime soon.
  20. Naphtali
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "wrestling, struggling"
    • Description:

      Rarely used biblical choice -- he's a son of Jacob -- with a bit of a white-bearded image.