350+ Biblical Names With Beautiful Meanings & Inspiring Stories

Why Choose Biblical Names For Your Baby?

Biblical names have always been popular because of their familiarity.

Christianity is the world’s largest religion by population. Around 31% of the world’s population, or about 2.4 billion people, are Christians. (1)

Many religious families pick biblical names for their babies, yet these names aren’t exclusive to Christians. Anyone, even non-religious families or atheists can use these names.

Also, many biblical names, including Peter, Daniel, Sarah, Leah, Rachel, and Michael, have become so popular that some parents might be surprised to learn they actually have Hebrew origins or come from the Bible.

We’ve prepared this list of 350+ biblical names for boys and girls, with their meanings. Some of the names also have inspiring stories.

The Most Popular Biblical Names

Top 10 Most Popular Biblical Girl Names

1. Abigail

Abigail means “my father’s joy” and comes from the Hebrew name “Avigail,” a combination of Hebrew elements “ab” (father) and “g-y-l” (to rejoice).

According to Old Testament accounts, Abigail was King David’s wife. She’s known to be wise, beautiful, and prophetic.

2. Anna

Anna means “grace.” It’s the Latin variation of Hannah, believed to be the mother of the Virgin Mary. The Hebrew name comes from “chanan” (grace).

According to the Gospel of Luke, Anna the Prophetess was an elderly woman from the Tribe of Asher who prophesied about Jesus being in the Temple of Jerusalem.

3. Delilah

Delilah means “delicate.”

The biblical Delilah didn’t have a good reputation because she betrayed Samson, the man whom God had given incredible strength. Delilah used her feminine charm to make Samson tell her the secret to his strength, leading to his defeat.

Still, some parents choose this name for its lovely sound.

4. Elizabeth

Elizabeth comes from the Hebrew name “Elisheva,” which means “my God is abundance.”

Elizabeth was the wife of Zechariah and the mother of John the Baptist, according to the Gospel of Luke.

5. Esther

Esther means “star,” a name derived from the Old Persian word “stāra” (star).

The biblical Esther was a beautiful Jewish woman, originally named Hadassah, who became the wife of the Persian king when the Israelites were in exile. She risked her own life to face the king and save her nation from annihilation.

6. Leah

Leah means “weary.”

The name meaning is sad, but Leah remains a powerful figure in biblical accounts. Leah had a sad story as the unloved wife of Jacob, who preferred her younger sister, Rachel.

According to the Old Testament, Jacob loved Rachel but was tricked by his father-in-law into marrying Leah, the older daughter. He had to work extra hard to finally have Rachel as his second wife.

In the Bible, it states that God opened Leah’s womb and let her bear him several children after seeing that Jacob didn’t love her.

Despite her sad marital experience, she’s considered one of the most important biblical matriarchs and the mother of Jacob’s six sons and one daughter:

Reuben
Simeon
Levi
Judah
Issachar
Zebulun
Dinah

7. Maria

Maria is the Hebrew version of Mary. Although the name means “bitter,” it’s popular because the biblical Mary was the mother of Jesus.

Maria is used as the usual form for Mary in many European and Latin languages, including Italian and Spanish baby girl names.

8. Naomi

Naomi means “pleasantness.”

In the Bible, Naomi was Ruth’s mother-in-law. Ruth was a loyal woman who became the great-grandmother of King David.

The name has several variations, including Noemi in Italian and Noemie in French.

Surprisingly, Naomi is a unisex name in Japanese and means “straight and beautiful” in this language.

9. Rachel

Rachel means “ewe (female sheep),” which is derived from the Hebrew word “rāchēl” (ewe).

Despite the simple meaning, Rachel is a popular name. In the Old Testament, Rachel was Jacob’s favorite wife and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin.

Other versions of the name include Rahel in Israeli and Raquel in Spanish.

10. Sarah

Sarah means “princess” in Hebrew and “joy” or “delight” in Arabic.

Sarah was Abraham’s wife and Isaac’s mother in the Old Testament. She was originally called Sarai, but God changed it to Sarah when He promised to give the previously childless couple a son when she was 90 years old.

Top 10 Most Popular Biblical Boy Names

Biblical boy names might never go out of style because of many families’ faith. The following are some of the most popular options for boys:

1. Adam

Adam means “man.”

Despite Adam being one of the oldest names in the Old Testament, it remains a popular option as a first or middle name for boys.

2. Benjamin

Benjamin means “son of my right hand” and comes from the Hebrew name “Binyamin.” It’s derived from “ben” (son) and “yamin” (right hand).

He’s the youngest of Jacob’s 13 children, the youngest patriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel, and the son of Rachel.

3. Daniel

Daniel means “God is my judge,” coming from the Hebrew name “Daniyyel” derived from “din” (judge) and “el” (God).

Daniel’s story is also a favorite among the most popular Biblical stories. According to a story in the Old Testament, Daniel remained loyal to God while in captivity in Babylon. Despite the threat of getting thrown into the lion’s den for his faith, he continued praying openly to God.

King Darius’ evil advisers helped create a law that inadvertently led to Daniel being thrown into the lion’s den. God sent an angel to calm the lions and stop them from eating Daniel.

So, Daniel is also a badass name for your baby boy. Its female version is “Danielle.”

4. Elijah

Elijah means “my God is Yahweh,” which comes from the Hebrew name “Eliyahu,” derived from “el” and “yah”(both mean “God”).

Elijah was a one-of-a-kind prophet who, without dying, was carried to heaven on a chariot of fire. He appeared with Moses during the transfiguration of Jesus (his face and clothes suddenly became bright and glowing) on Mount Tabor.

5. Gideon

Gideon is a Hebrew name that means “having a stump for a hand” or “one who cuts down.”

The biblical Gideon was the military leader God chose to lead his people against the stronger, superior Midianite forces.

6. Jacob

Jacob means “the supplanter” or “one who seizes.”

The name comes from the story of how Jacob seized the birthright from his older brother Esau by tricking their elderly father, Isaac, into giving him his blessing.

Jacob is one of the most important figures in the Old Testament and the father of 12 sons who later became the patriarchs of the 12 tribes of Israel.

After he won the struggle with God, Jacob’s name was changed to Israel.

7. James

James is believed to be the English version of Jacob and means the same thing, “supplanter.”

However, the name isn’t just a variant of Jacob because there are other biblical characters named James, including two of Jesus’ 12 disciples.

8. Michael

Michael comes from the Hebrew name “Mikha’el,” derived from the rhetorical question “mī kā’ēl” (who is like God?).

It’s one of the most popular names from the Bible because of Michael’s role as the archangel who led the battle against Satan. He’s recognized as the leader of the angels and the heavenly army in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament.

9. Noah

Noah means “rest,” “comfort,” or “repose.” It comes from the Hebrew name “Noach” derived from “nuach” (rest).

He’s one of the most recognizable biblical figures, especially because he built an ark to save himself, his family, and the animals from the great flood God sent to punish the world.

Noah’s story is also popular in baby books.

10. Solomon

Solomon means “man of peace.”

The biblical Solomon was among the most famous kings of Israel and was well known for his wisdom. He authored several books in the Bible, including the Song of Solomon, the Book of Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes.

What Are The Best & Most Beautiful Biblical Names?

Amnon – Name meaning “faithful”
Amram – Name meaning “exalted nation”
Eli – Hebrew name that comes from “aly” (high). The biblical Eli was a high priest and the last judge of Israel. He trained the prophet, Samuel.
Genesis – Gender-neutral name with Greek and Hebrew origins; name means “origin” or “birth”
Isaac – Name that comes from the Hebrew name “Yitzchaq,” which is derived from “tzachaq” (to laugh). According to the Old Testament accounts, Isaac was the long-awaited son of 100-year-old Abraham and 90-year-old Sarah. The old couple laughed when they heard the prophecy that they would have a son.
Isaiah – The Hebrew name means “God is salvation” and was derived from “Yesha’yahu” taken from the elements “yasha” (to save) and “yah” (the Hebrew God). The biblical Isaiah was among the four major prophets of the Old Testament.
Ishmael – Name meaning “God listens.” The biblical Ishmael was the first son of Abraham with his wife’s slave, Hagar. He’s considered a prophet in Islam.
Israel – Prince of God
Issachar – Name meaning “there is reward”
Ithiel – God is with me
Jordan – Descend
Michaiah – Humble
Moses – The name means “pull out of water.” In the Old Testament, Moses was put in a basket to save him from sure death. He was taken from the water and raised by the Egyptian princess. He would grow into one of the most important biblical figures and lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.
Nadab – Generous
Nahum – Comforter
Naphtali – My struggle
Nathan – Name meaning “he gave” derived from the Hebrew verb “natan” (gave). In the Old Testament, Nathan was the prophet who reprimanded King David for committing adultery with Bathsheba and ensuring that her husband is killed in battle.
Neriah: Meaning “lamp of God.”
Philemon: Meaning “affectionate”
Saul – Name meaning “prayed for.” He’s the first king of Israel.
Seth – Name meaning “appointed or placed.” In Genesis in the Old Testament, Seth was described as the third son of Adam and Eve. He’s one of Noah’s ancestors.
Silas – Name based on the Latin name Silvanus meaning “forest” or “wood.” Silas was a biblical character in the New Testament and recognized as a leading member of the early Christian community. He accompanied the Apostle Paul on his second missionary journey. The name was also derived from Sylvanus, the Roman god of trees.

What Are The Coolest Biblical Names?

1. Amos

Amos means “carried by God.” Amos was a minor prophet in the Bible. He wrote the Old Testament Book of Amos and spoke out for social justice.

2. Asher

Asher is a Hebrew name meaning “blessed” or “happy one.” It was derived from the Hebrew word “osher” (happiness). The biblical Asher was one of Jacob’s twelve sons. His mother was Zilpah, Leah’s handmaid.

3. Avihu

This Hebrew name means “He (God) is my Father.”

4. Caleb

The name Caleb means “whole heart.” In the Bible, Caleb was one of the scouts that Moses sent to find the land of Canaan after the Israelites escaped from Egypt and lived in the wilderness for 40 years.

Although Moses was unable to reach the so-called “promised land,” Caleb and the other scouts were able to lead the people there.

5. Darius

Darius is a Latin, Greek, and Persian name meaning “possessing goodness” or “maintaining possessions well.”

In the Bible, King Darius was a friend of Daniel, the prayerful man of God. The king had to throw Daniel in the lion’s den because of his advisors’ evil advice. The king was amazed that his friend was still alive the following morning because God kept him safe.

6. Dathan

Dathan is a Hebrew boy’s name that means “fountain.”

7. David

The name David means “beloved.” It comes from the Hebrew name “Dawid,” which was derived from “dod” (beloved).

David is a well-known biblical character in the Old Testament.

As a boy, he defeated the Philistine giant Goliath using a slingshot. He would later become the second king of Israel. He established Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and the place would become known as the “City of David.”

He’s best friends with King Saul’s son Jonathan. One of his eight wives, Michal, was King Saul’s daughter.

8. Ebenezer

The name means “stone of help.”

Samuel used this biblical place name for the stone marker that he set up to commemorate God’s help so the Israelites could win the battle against the Philistines.

9. Ezekiel

The name means “God will strengthen” and comes from “Yechezqel,” which was also derived from “chazaq” (to strengthen) and “el” (God).

Ezekiel was one of the prominent prophets in the Old Testament. He predicted the fall of Jerusalem and the restoration of Israel.

10. Ezra

Ezra means “help,” coming from the abbreviation of the Hebrew phrase Azaryahu, which means “Yah (God) helps.”

The biblical Ezra led fifteen hundred Israelites out of slavery in Babylon and back to their homeland in Jerusalem.

11. Joash

The name “Joash” means “fire of God.” Also known as Jehoash, the biblical Joash was the eighth king of Judah.

12. Job

The name Job means “persecuted.” In the Bible, Job was described as a sinless, upright man who became known for his patience and strong faith in God.

In the Book of Job, the fallen angel Satan provoked God into removing his protection on Job, saying that the man was only good because God protects him.

Job was enjoying a prosperous life when he was suddenly bombarded by horrendous disasters, including the deaths of his children, the loss of all his wealth, and illnesses that brought him near death.

Throughout his misfortunes, however, Job never cursed God. He only cursed the day he was born, but never God. Even when his friends told him that God might be behind his misfortunes, his faith never wavered.

After passing these ultimate tests of faith, God restored his wealth. God also granted him seven sons and three daughters, who were known to be the most beautiful in the land.

13. Joel

The name means “Yahweh is God.”

14. John

This is an English name meaning “God is gracious” that comes from the Hebrew names “Johanan” and “Yochanan” or the Latin name “Iohannes.”

At least five people are named John in the Bible, including John the Baptist and John the Beloved.

15. Jonas

Jonas is the Greek version of “Jonah,” which means “dove.”

Based on Old Testament accounts, Jonah was a prophet instructed by God to preach in the city of Nineveh so its evil people would repent.

Scared, Jonah disobeyed God and tried to run away by boarding a different boat. God sent a storm that nearly capsized the boat.

Jonah confessed his wrongdoing and was thrown into the sea, where a whale swallowed him. He emerged unharmed three days later on the shores of Nineveh.

16. Jude

Jude is the short form of Judah, a Latin name that means “praised.”

17. Paul

It’s a popular boys’ name from ancient Rome. This Roman name was given to Saul of Tarsus, who persecuted Christians but later converted to Christianity.

18. Peter

Peter means “stone,” and was derived from the Greek name “Petros” meaning “rock” or “stone.”

The biblical Peter is among the most prominent figures in the Christian world and is linked to Saint Peter, the keeper of Heaven’s Gates.

He was born as Simon but was given the name Peter when Jesus said that he would symbolize the rock on which He, Jesus, would build Christianity. Peter is considered the first pope of the Christian church.

19. Phanuel

The name comes from the term used to mean the “Face of God.”

20. Philip

Philip is a Greek name meaning “lover of horses.” The biblical Philip was one of the 12 disciples of Jesus.

21. Samson

This name means “sun.”

The biblical Samson was a legendary Israelite warrior with immense physical strength linked to his uncut hair. He lost his strength when Delilah learned of his secret and had his hair cut short.

22. Sheba

This name means “oath.” In the Bible, the Queen of Sheba traveled from her faraway land to visit King Solomon. She did this after hearing of his reputation for being wise.

What Names Mean “Gift From God”?

Donatello – Spanish and Italian name that means “gift from God”
Matthew – Comes from the Hebrew “Mattityahu,” which means “gift of Yahweh (God)”
Matthias – Aramaic variation of Matthew, meaning “gift of God.” It comes from the Hebrew word “mattan” (gift) and “yah” (God).
Nathaniel – Derived from the Hebrew name “Netan’el,” which means “gift of God” and derived from “natan” (to give) and “el” (God).

What Name Means “Loved By God”?

Jedidiah – Hebrew name that means “loved by God.” It can also be spelled as “Jedediah.”

What Name Means “Protected By God”?

Alice – Urdu (Indo-Aryan) name that means “protected by God.” It can also be spelled as “Alicia.”
Anselm – German name that means “God’s protection.”

Angelic & Heavenly Names

Some angelic or heavenly names you can pick for your baby:

Angela – Messenger of God
Diana – Divine
Gabriel – Name meaning “God is my strength,” coming from the Hebrew name “Gavri’el” derived from “gever” (strong) and “el” (God). Gabriel is recognized as the archangel who announced the news of Jesus’ birth. He also appears in Abrahamic religions (those that recognize Abraham as their first prophet or patriarch): including in Christian, Jewish, and Muslim texts.
Raphael – God heals
Uriel – An angel in the Bible

What Are Good Bible Names For A Boy?

Aaron – Name meaning “high mountain” or “exalted.” The biblical Aaron was Moses’ older brother. He was appointed by God as Moses’ spokesman and became the first High Priest of the Israelites.
Abacuc – Ardent embrace
Abessa – My father is a gift
Abessalom – Father of peace
Abia – God is my father
Abiathar – My father excels
Abidan – My father is a judge
Abimael – Father sent from God
Abiram – My father is exalted
Abishai – My father is a gift from God
Abraham – Name meaning “father of nations.” He’s the father of Ishmael and Isaac, and is recognized as the main patriarch of the Israelites.
Absalom – Father is peace
Adriel – Flock of God
Azarel – God has helped
Azarias – Helped by God
Azaziah – Yahweh is strong
Balthasar – One of the Three Magi (Three Wise Men)
Bartholomeus – Son that suspends the water
Elkanah – God has purchased
Elnathan – God has given
Emmanuel – God is with us
Enoch – Disciplined
Ethan – Name meaning “strong” or “enduring.” It comes from the Hebrew name “Eitan.”
Gaius – To rejoice
Gamaliel – My reward is God
Gedaliah – God is great
Habakkuk – Embrace
Jehu – He is God
Jeremiah – Name meaning “exalted by God.” The biblical Jeremiah was among the major prophets and was the author of the Books of Kings, the Book of Lamentations, and the Book of Jeremiah. He lived to see the Temple of Solomon’s destruction and Jerusalem’s fall.
Jeremiel – God lifts
Jeriah – Taught by God
Jeroboam – The people contend
Jethro – Name meaning “overflow.” He’s the father-in-law of Moses.
Josiah – Name meaning “God heals,” coming from the Hebrew name “Yoshiyahu” derived from “yoshi” (support) and “Yahu” (Hebrew God). The biblical Josiah was only eight years old when he became the king of Judah. He’s known to be one of Judah’s upright kings.
Levi – Name meaning “joined in harmony.” The biblical Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah, and the patriarch of Israel’s priestly tribe of Levites.
Reuben – Name meaning “behold a son,” from the Hebrew words “ra’a” (to see) and “ben” (son). He’s the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, and the eldest of the patriarchs of the 12 tribes of Israel.
Rufus – Red-haired
Zechariah – Name meaning “God remembers.” The biblical Zechariah was the father of John the Baptist, according to the New Testament.

What Are Godly Names For A Girl?

Adah – Hebrew name meaning “adornment” or German name meaning “noble.” Adah is among the first female names mentioned in the Bible. She’s found in the Book of Genesis and was introduced as one of the wives of Esau, the elder brother of Jacob. You can also spell this name as “Ada.”
Adalya – Noble one; can also be spelled as “Adalia”
Adina – Noble
Agar – Stranger
Dinah – The name means “judged” or “vindicated.” The biblical Dinah was the only daughter of Jacob and Leah.
Eliana – God has answered
Gabriela – Name meaning “God is my strength.” It’s considered the feminine variant of “Gabriel,” the archangel.
Hannah – Name with Hebrew origins, meaning “favor” or “grace.” It comes from “Channah” derived from “channan” (grace). Hannah was the prophet Samuel’s mother. The name also has variations in different languages, including Anna, Anne, Anya, Annabel, Annika, and Hana.
Hosanna – Name meaning “deliver us”
Joanna – Biblical baby girl name that means “God is gracious” and derived from the Greek name “Ioanna” or the Hebrew name “Yohannah.” The biblical Joanna was one of Jesus’ numerous followers who accompanied him on his travels. She’s also one of the women who discovered Jesus’ empty tomb.
Judith – Name meaning “Jewish woman.” She’s recognized as the heroine who infiltrated the camp of the Assyrians and decapitated their general Holofernes to liberate her people. The Book of Judith can be found in the Catholic and Eastern-Greek Orthodox Bibles but not in the Protestant Bible.
Keturah – Incense
Mara – Name meaning “bitter.” It’s the ancient root of “Mary.”
Martha – Name meaning “lady.” Martha and Mary, her sister, regularly hosted Jesus at their home in Bethany. Martha would be busy cooking and cleaning while her sister sat and listened to Jesus’ teachings.
Mary – Name meaning “of the sea.” It’s the English form of Maria. There are many women named Mary in the Bible, including the Virgin Mary (mother of Jesus), Mary of Bethany (she and her sister Martha hosted Jesus in their home), and Mary Magdalene.
Miriam – Name meaning “beloved.” The biblical Miriam was the sister of Moses. She’s recognized not just as the sister of Moses and Aaron but also as a teacher and prophetess.
Rahab – Spacious
Rebecca – Name meaning “join,” coming from the Hebrew name “Rivkah” derived from “ribbqah” (noose or tie). In the Bible, Rebecca was the wife of Isaac. She’s the mother of Esau and Jacob. The name is commonly spelled as “Rebekah” in the Bible.
Ruth – Name meaning “friend.” She’s an ancestor of King David and known as the loyal heroine of the Book of Ruth. She remained loyal to her mother-in-law, Naomi, after her husband’s death. Although she’s a Moabite, not an Israelite, she’s considered one of the minor prophets.
Salome – The name means “peace.” One of the prominent women, Salome, in the New Testament, is the mother of Jesus’s disciples, James and John. She’s also one of the three women who discovered Jesus’ empty grave.
Sapphira – Pretty one
Sarai – Princess; another version of “Sarah”
Selah – Forever
Sepphora – Pretty
Sharon – Fertile plain
Tabitha – Name meaning “graceful.” The biblical Tabitha was the woman restored to life by Saint Peter.

Gender-Neutral Baby Names From The Bible

Abijah – My father is God
Anah – Answer
Asa – Healer
Ira – Name meaning “watchful one.” The biblical Ira was one of King David’s thirty “mighty warriors.”
Jesse – Name meaning “gift.” The biblical Jesse was King David’s father, but the name has become gender-neutral over the years. Still, some people consider “Jesse” as a primarily male name, while its feminine form is spelled as “Jessie.”
Micah – Gender-neutral version of “Michael,” meaning “Who is like God?”
Shiloh – Name meaning “tranquil.” Shiloh is a place mentioned in the Bible.

Biblical Names With Beautiful Meanings

Names With Beautiful Meanings For Girls

Athaliah – Time of the Lord
Aviyah – God is my father
Bernice – Bringer of victory
Bethel – House of God
Bithiah – Daughter of Yahweh (God)
Channah – Gracious
Charity – Beloved
Chloe – Meaning “green sprout.” Chloe is a name that appears in Greek mythology as an alternative name for Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility. She’s referred to as Chloe in the spring months because of the name’s relation to sprouts and growth. But in the Bible, Chloe was mentioned in the New Testament as the name of a Greek Christian woman.
Eden – Paradise
Edna – Pleasure
Elisaie – God is my salvation
Elisheba – My God
Jehosheba – Yahweh (God) is an oath
Jescha – God beholds
Mahalath – Musical baby name that means “lyre”
Merab – Abundant
Milcah – Queen
Phoebe – This name is a Latin variant of the Greek name “Phoibe” derived from “phoibos” (bright). In classical Greek mythology, Phoebe is another name for Artemis, the goddess of the moon, wild animals, and of hunting. In biblical history, Phoebe was a deaconess of the early Christian church. The Apostle Paul mentioned Phoebe in Romans (a book in the Bible).
Vashti – Name meaning “goodness.” The biblical Vashti was the queen of Persia, replaced by Esther as the wife of King Ahasuerus.

Names With Beautiful Meanings For Boys

Abdias – Prophet
Abdiel – Servant of God
Abel – Name meaning “breath.” The biblical Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve, slain by his elder brother, Cain because God accepted his offering but refused to accept Cain’s.
Abner – The Father is a light
Abram – Exalted father
Ambakoum – God’s embrace
Ami – Trustworthy
Amittai – My truth
Ananias – God has given
Anath – Answer
Aziel – God is my strength
Chaggai – Festive
Chaleb – Devotion to God
Chananyah – God is compassionate
Chanokh – Dedicated
Chenaniah – Strength of the Lord
Cleopas – Glory to God
Cyrus – Lord or sun
Ehud – He who praises
Eiran – He who is awake
Eitan – Spiritual strength
Elchanan – God is gracious
Eldad – God has loved
Eleazar – My God has helped
Eliakim – God rises
Elias – God is my God
Elioenai – My eyes look to God
Hosea – Salvation
Ilai – Supreme
Immanuel – God is with us
Jabin – The wise
Jachin – He establishes
Jadon – He will judge
Jahleel – God waits
Jairus – God enlightens
Jeconiah – God will establish
Jedidiah – Beloved by God
Jehiel – God will live
Rehoboam – He (God) enlarges the people
Reuel – Friend of God
Samuel – Name meaning “God has heard,” coming from the Hebrew name “Shemu’el” (told by God). The biblical Samuel was the last of Israel’s great judges and prophets. He ruled as the last judge and established the monarchy by anointing King Saul, then later King David.
Seraiah – God is the ruler
Tobiah – Name meaning “God is good,” coming from “Toviyah” derived from “tov” (good) and “yah” (the Hebrew God).

Unique Biblical Names

Unique Biblical Names For Girls

Abigaia – Cause of joy
Abital – Name meaning “my father is the night dew”
Achinoam – My brother is pleasant
Ahlai – Expecting
Anaiah- Yahweh (God) has answered
Apphia – Increasing
Areli – Golden
Asenath – She belongs to her father
Atarah – Diadem
Avital – My father is the dew
Bathsheba – Name meaning “daughter of the oath.” She’s the mother of King Solomon. King David fell in love with her despite knowing that she was married. To make her his wife, the king sent her first husband, Uriah the Hittite, to the frontlines at the battlefield so she would be widowed.
Chawwah – Breathe
Haggith – Festive
Jezebel – Virtue

Unique Biblical Names For Boys

Barnabas – Name meaning “son of comfort.” The biblical Barnabas was one of Jesus’ disciples.
Bartholomew – Name meaning “owner of lots of land.” In the Bible, Bartholomew was one of Jesus’ 12 apostles. He is believed to have evangelized in Armenia and India before being martyred.
Baruch – Blessed
Benayahu – God has built
Bethuel – God destroys
Boaz – Hebrew name meaning “quickness.” In the Old Testament, he married Ruth. He’s the great-grandfather of King David.
Hanan – Gracious
Hananiah – God is gracious
Havilah – To dance
Hazael – God sees
Herod – Song of the hero
Hezekiah – God strengthens

Rare Names From The Bible

Rare Biblical Names For Girls

Baara – Flame
Bala – Dance
Barak – Lightning
Bilhah – Bashful
Hepzibah – My delight is in her
Hester – Star
Hodiah – Majesty of Yahweh (God)
Noa – Name meaning “movement.” The name is sometimes confused with “Noah,” the biblical patriarch who built an ark to save his family plus two of each animal from the great flood. The biblical Noa, without the “h,” was one of the five daughters of Zelophehad (he didn’t have sons). They amazed people at the time after they successfully petitioned that they should be allowed to inherit their late father’s wealth. Although it was against tradition, Moses ruled in favor of the daughters.

Rare Biblical Names For Boys

Abimelech – My father is king
Jorah – He (God) teaches
Joram – God is exalted
Josaphat – God is judge
Malachi – My messenger
Manasseh – Forget
Mattan – Gift
Zacchaeus – Name meaning “pure.” The biblical Zacchaeus was Jericho’s chief tax collector (a profession hated in biblical times). Despite being considered a “sinner,” as people regarded tax collectors, Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Upon seeing what he had done, Jesus called him by his name and asked him to come down from the tree. Jesus talked to him and asked to dine at the tax collector’s house. Zacchaeus repented and promised to repay 4x the money he had cheated.
Zadok – Righteous
Zebadiah – God has bestowed
Zephaniah – God has hidden

Hebrew Baby Names

Baby Girl Names With Hebrew Origins

Bela – Name meaning “she of fair skin” in Czech, but can also mean “destruction” in Hebrew
Bethany – A biblical place name that means “house of figs.” It was a town set at the foot of the Mount of Olives. It’s where Jesus stayed at the house of sisters Martha and Mary the week before his crucifixion.
Beulah – Married
Carmel – Garden
Claudia – Lame
Deina – Avenged
Drusilla – Fresh as the dew
Ephrath – Fruitful place
Esthiru – Secret
Eunice – Good victory
Eve – Name meaning “life.” Eve might be the oldest girl name in the Bible, but it remains a popular choice even in modern times. It also shares the same meaning as “Eva.”
Faith – Devotion
Hagar – Name meaning “flight.” The biblical Hagar was Sarah’s Egyptian servant. Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham so he could have a child. Hagar’s son, Ishmael, is recognized as the ancestor of Muhammad and is honored in Islam. Hagar’s search for water after getting abandoned by Abraham led to an angel creating a spring now known as the Zamzam Well. It can be found next to the Kaaba in the holy city of Mecca.
Huldah – Loved one
Iscah – To behold
Ivah – Overturning
Magdalene – Of Magdala
Naamah – Pleasant
Naarah – Young girl
Orpah – Name meaning “fawn.” The biblical Orpah was the other daughter-in-law of Naomi
Peninnah – Pearl
Priscilla – Name meaning “venerable.” The biblical Priscilla was named in the New Testament as one of the leaders of the early Christian church.
Shulammite – Peace
Susanna – Name meaning “lily.” In the Bible, Susanna was falsely accused of adultery (punishable by death) by two men who wanted to blackmail her. The prophet Daniel saved her life and was able to help punish her accusers.
Talitha – Name meaning “little girl.” Jesus gave the name to the little girl He raised from the dead.
Tirza – Delight
Zillah – Shade
Zilpah – Name meaning “frailty.” The biblical Zilpah was a slave in Jacob’s household as Leah’s handmaid. Leah presents Zilpah to Jacob so she can bear more kids through her handmaid. Zilpah gave birth to sons Gad and Asher, who would also become the patriarchs of the 12 tribes of Israel.
Zina – Stranger

Baby Boy Names With Hebrew Origins

Abram – Hebrew name meaning “exalted father.” Abram was the original name of Abraham. God changed his name to Abraham, which means “father of a multitude.” He’s considered the founder and father of the Israelites through his son Isaac and Muslims through his son Ishmael. He’s also considered the founding prophet of what is collectively known as Abrahamic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
Alpheus – Successor
Alvah – His Highness
Amal – Work
Amariah – Yahweh (God) has said
Amaryahu – Promised by God
Felix – A name that first started as a Latin and Roman surname meaning “happy” but was later considered a nickname by the ancient Roman dictator Sulla (formally Lucius Cornelius Sulla Felix), the procurator (imperial governor) of Judah. The name became popular and is linked to four popes and 67 saints.
Gomer – Complete
Jonathan – Name meaning “God has given,” coming from “Yehonatan” or “Yonatan” (gift of Jehovah). The Hebrew name comes from “yeho” (God) and “natan” (to give). The biblical Jonathan was King Saul’s eldest son and David’s best friend.
Joseph – Name meaning “Jehovah (God) will increase,” coming from “Yosef” derived from “yasaf” (to increase). There are several people named Joseph in the Bible, including Jacob’s favorite son with Rachel and Jesus’ earthly father.
Joses – Raised
Joshua – Name meaning “God is my salvation,” coming from “Yehoshu’a” derived from “yeho” (God) and “yasha” (to save). The biblical Joshua was Moses’ successor who led the Israelites into the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.
Josias – God heals
Judah – Praised; shares the same meaning as “Jude”
Lemuel – Belonging to God
Lucas – From Lucania
Luke – Latin and Hebrew name meaning “light” derived from the Greek name “Loukas.” The biblical Luke was a first-century Greek physician who was also an evangelist and friend of Paul. They traveled together. Luke was credited for writing the Acts of the Apostles and the Gospel of Luke.
Methuselah – Name meaning “man of the dar.” He’s known as the man with the longest life, living up to 969 years old.
Omar – Speaker
Othniel – Lion of God
Simeon – Listening
Simon – Name meaning “He (God) has heard.” Simon, spelled as “Simeon” in the Old Testament, was Jacob’s second son with Leah. In the New Testament, Simon was one of Jesus’ 12 apostles. Jesus gave him the name “Peter.”
Stephen – Crown
Thaddeus – Heart
Thomas – Twin
Timothy – Name meaning “honoring God.” The biblical Timothy accompanied the Apostle Paul in his journeys.
Zachary – English version of “Zacharias,” coming from the Hebrew name “Zechariah.” There are several people with this name in the Bible, including the father of John the Baptist.
Zion – Monument

Nature names can also be a fun pick for your baby. Instead of using English terms, you can choose some nature-related options from Hebrew baby names.

Abilene – Name meaning “grass”
Chuldah – Name meaning “weasel”
Dalida – Name meaning “dahlia flower”
Damaris – Name meaning “calf” or “be gentle.” In the Bible, Damaris was mentioned in Acts of the Apostles as one of the Christian converts in Athens.
Deborah – Name meaning “bee.” There are two women who are named Deborah in the Bible: Rebecca’s nurse and the heroic prophetess who formed an army to battle the Canaanites.
Dorcas – Name meaning “gazelle”
Hadassah – Myrtle tree
Jemimah – Name meaning “dove.” The biblical Jemimah was known for her beauty and was one of Job’s three daughters.
Keziah – Name meaning “cassia tree.” Kezia was Job’s second daughter, born after his suffering and trials ended.
Lillian – Meaning “lily flower”
Ophrah – Name meaning “fawn”
Rhoda – Flower name that means “rose”
Shoshannah – Meaning “lily”
Tamar – Name that means “date palm”
Terah – Meaning “earth”
Zibiah – Meaning “doe”
Zipporah – Name meaning “bird.” The biblical Zipporah was Moses’ wife and Jethro’s daughter.

Allon – This name means “oak”
Anani – Meaning “cloud;” it can also be spelled as Anan
Aquila – Meaning “eagle”
Aran – Name meaning “wild goat”
Arihel – Meaning “lion;” it can also be spelled as Arieh
Carmi – Meaning “vine”
Carpus – Meaning “fruit”
Cephas – Meaning “rock”
Diklah – Meaning “palm grove”
Haran – Meaning “mountain”
Iona – Meaning “dove”
Ithamar – Meaning “date palm island”
Jaala – Meaning “wild goat”
Jonah – Name meaning “dove”
Nereus – This name means “water”

Badass Biblical Names

Abaddon – Name meaning “destruction” or “ruin.” Although the name is associated with the “angel of the bottomless pit” or hell, some parents think this can be a badass name for their baby boy.
Achan – Trouble
Adlai – Justice of God
Aithan – Strong
Andreas – Courageous
Andrew – Name meaning “powerful.” It’s a version of the Greek name “Andreas,” derived from “aner” (man). In the Bible, Andrew was one of Jesus’ 12 apostles. He was also the first disciple that Jesus called. He’s the brother of Simon Peter, also an apostle.
Aronne – Mountain of strength
Artaxerxes – Righteous ruler
Cain – Name meaning “acquired.” The biblical Cain murdered his brother Abel out of jealousy, but the name still appears from time to time as it is, or spelled as “Caine.”
Esau – Name meaning “hairy.” Esau, in the Bible, was the elder brother of Jacob. He was cheated of his birthright blessing when Jacob pretended to be him. Jacob wore goat skin to feel hairy so their now-blind father, Isaac, wouldn’t realize he was blessing the wrong son.
Joakim – He who made the sun stand still
Lazarus – Name meaning “God is my helper.” According to the Bible, Lazarus was the brother of Martha and Mary. Jesus raised him from the dead.
Lilith – Name meaning “of the night,” coming from the Akkadian word “lilitu.” According to Jewish folklore, Lilith was Adam’s first wife but was turned into a night demon because she refused to obey him.
Marcus – Hebrew name that means “warlike.” Marcus, as Mark, is recognized as the author of the Book of Mark, the second gospel.
Melech – King
Meshach – He who draws with force
Michal – Another female form of “Michael,” meaning “Who resembles God?” In the Bible, Michal was King Saul’s daughter and King David’s wife. She saved David when her father, Saul, tried to have him killed.
Nicodemus – People’s victory
Nimrod – Rebel
Shamgar – Sword
Titus – Avenger
Uzziah – My power is God
Yeshua – To rescue
Zedekiah – Justice of God
Zerah – Shining
Zuriel – My rock is God

Why Are There Many Biblical Baby Names?

The Bible contains around 3,000 names, although most of these are simply names without ample information.

Instead of telling their story, several books or sections in the Bible only listed out the names of these people, particularly important bloodlines or census information.

For example, the Book of Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus, tracing back His roots to Abraham. Based on this genealogy, it can be seen that Jesus was also considered a descendant of King David and a member of the Tribe of Judah.

You might also notice that most of the names in the Bible are of men. That’s because women (and children) were counted along with property. They were considered among men’s possessions at the time. (2)

REFERENCES

(1) https://www.visualcapitalist.com/mapped-major-religions-of-the-world/

(2) https://scholars.wlu.ca/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=&httpsredir=1&article=1039&context=consensus#:~:text=Perhaps%20one%20of%20the%20most,%3B%20Deuteronomy%205%3A21).