Bible Names
- Ivah
Description:
Ivah is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Hebrew, potentially related to 'avah' meaning 'desire' or representing a place name mentioned in biblical texts. Alternatively, it could be a variant of Iva, which has Slavic roots meaning 'willow tree.' The name experienced modest popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Ivah has a simple, elegant structure with its two syllables and soft ending, fitting well with contemporary interest in short, vowel-rich names. The name carries a vintage charm while remaining distinctive and uncommon. Its biblical connections might appeal to some families, while others might appreciate its nature-associated meanings and subtle historical presence.
- Eber
Origin:
Diminutive of Eberhard, GermanMeaning:
"brave boar"Description:
Eber is far more approachable than its full forbidding form.
- Nazareth
Origin:
Hebrew place-nameMeaning:
"branch, shoot; watch, guard"Description:
Nazareth, used equally for boys and girls, is one of several place names with religious associations -- Galilee, Jericho --that have been rising in use in recent years. The name may relate to branch or to the verb watch or guard, but there are many possible derivations and meanings.
- Immanuel
Origin:
German variation of EmmanuelDescription:
In the US, Emmanuel has held steady around the Top 200 for a quarter century now, but this variation has dropped off the Top 1000 for three of the past seven years. It was Number 974 in 2016.
- Melea
Description:
Melea is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, primarily Greek and Hawaiian. In Greek, it relates to 'meli' meaning 'honey,' suggesting sweetness and warmth. In Hawaiian tradition, it means 'gentle' or 'pleasant.' This cross-cultural appeal gives Melea versatility and global charm. The name has remained relatively uncommon but has seen quiet, consistent usage across diverse communities. Its melodious three-syllable structure flows beautifully when spoken, with an emphasis on the middle syllable. Melea offers a distinctive yet accessible alternative to more common names like Malia or Amelia. The name evokes qualities of gentleness, sweetness, and natural beauty, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that is both unique and meaningful, with positive associations across different cultural traditions.
- Noe
Origin:
Greek, Georgian, and Latin variation of Noah, HebrewMeaning:
"rest, repose"Description:
The Old Testament Noah has been so popular for so long that variations are becoming popular too. Noe is a streamlined form used in Greek and Latin Bibles, and in Georgia too. Spelled as more often as Noé, it is also popular across France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Spain.
- Magdala
Description:
Magdala is a feminine name with profound historical and biblical connections. It derives from the ancient town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee, most famously known as the home of Mary Magdalene, an important figure in Christianity. The place name Magdala has Aramaic origins meaning "tower" or "elevated place." This gives the name a sense of strength and prominence. While never among the most popular names, Magdala has been used sporadically throughout history, particularly in religious communities. It offers a less common alternative to the more familiar Magdalene or Madeline while maintaining the rich historical and spiritual heritage.
- Heber
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"partner, togetherness"Description:
Biblical name -- he was an ancestor of Abraham's -- rarely used today but registered on the U.S. popularity list at the end of the 19th century. With the rise of other obscure Old Testament names, just might have a shot at revival.
- Hali
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"the sea"Description:
Another culture's take on the Hailey/Halle phenomenon.
- Beno
Description:
Beno is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a short form of Benedict (meaning 'blessed'), Benjamin ('son of the right hand'), or various Slavic names containing the element 'ben' meaning 'good.' In some cultures, particularly Slovenian and Slovak, it functions as an independent name. Beno has a straightforward, friendly quality with its simple two-syllable structure. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it enjoys some usage in Central and Eastern European countries. The name offers modern appeal through its brevity while still connecting to traditional naming heritage. Its simplicity makes it easily pronounceable across language barriers.
- Hanes
Description:
Hanes is a masculine name with potential Welsh or Germanic origins. As a Welsh name, it may be related to the name Hannes, a diminutive of Johannes (John), ultimately meaning 'God is gracious.' In English-speaking contexts, some might associate it with the apparel brand, though the name predates this connection. Hanes has also appeared as a surname before being adopted as a given name. The name's brief, strong sound gives it a masculine quality that's straightforward and unpretentious. With just two syllables, Hanes is concise yet distinctive. As a first name, Hanes remains quite uncommon, offering a rare option that nonetheless feels familiar due to its simple pronunciation and potential surname associations.
- Zebadiah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God has bestowed"Description:
Biblical names are expanding (literally) as some parents move on from Isaiah and Elijah to more elaborate choices with simple short forms like Jed and Zeb.
- Lydda
Origin:
Biblical place-nameDescription:
Lydda is the name of a Biblical town whose similarity to Lydia makes it plausible as a first name. But if you're considering Lydda, we can't help but wonder: Why not just stick with Lydia?
- Egypt
Origin:
Place-nameMeaning:
"the house of the soul of Ptah"Description:
Place names like Memphis, Harlem, Cairo, Vienna, Milan, and Astoria are right on trend at the moment, and Egypt could fit in, thanks to its similarity in sound to the likes of Edith and Eden. Alicia Keys used the name for her son back in 2010, but before that, it was used as a stage name for three famous belly dancers.
- Crispus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"curly-haired"Description:
A potential hero name: Crispus Attucks, an African and Native American man, was the first colonist to die for independence in the Boston Massacre.
- Phebe
Origin:
Akan, GhanaianMeaning:
"born on Friday"Description:
Though often Anglicized as Phoebe, Phebe has separate roots. It originated as a variation of Afua, an Akan day name, and commonly used among enslaved people in America.
- Ziza
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"splendor, abundance"Description:
A lively, zippy name that is surprisingly rare in the US. It was the name of two men mentioned in the Bible, but is feminine in modern times.
- Peninnah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"pearl, coral, precious stone"Description:
A rare Biblical choice associated with gemstones drawn from the sea, Peninnah appears in the Old Testament as one of two wives of Elkanah (the other being Hannah). With possible nicknames Nina, Pearl, and Penny, it could make an interesting option for those wanting an underused Biblical name.
- Perez
Origin:
Spanish from HebrewMeaning:
"to blossom"Description:
The newest surname names move beyond the Waspy, and this is an excellent example, associated these days with gossip blogger Perez (born Mario) Hilton.
- Javan
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Greece"Description:
A son of Noah in the Bible who is also thought to be an ancestor of the Greek people and the guardian angel of Greece. An alternative to Jason or Jayden, perhaps.