Biblical Baby Names - Timeless Names with Sacred Meaning

The Enduring Power of Biblical Baby Names

Few naming traditions carry the depth and weight of biblical names. Spanning thousands of years of history, scripture, and spiritual reflection, biblical names have given parents across generations a vocabulary of meaning — names that function as prayers, declarations, and blessings all at once. Whether you are a person of deep faith or simply drawn to names with ancient resonance, the biblical tradition offers an extraordinary treasury to draw from.

Old Testament Names: Hebrew Roots and Patriarchal Strength

The Hebrew Bible — what Christians call the Old Testament — is the oldest and deepest vein of biblical naming. Names here are drawn from the language of ancient Israel and carry meanings that were often prophetic or descriptive of character. Abraham (meaning "father of multitudes") was the founding patriarch of the Israelite people. Moses, possibly derived from the Egyptian "mose" (son) or the Hebrew "drawn from the water," led a nation to freedom. David means "beloved" — a name carried by Israel's greatest king and the author of many Psalms.

For girls, the Old Testament offers names of comparable beauty: Hannah (meaning "grace" or "favor") was the mother of the prophet Samuel, her story of prayer and faithfulness one of scripture's most moving narratives. Ruth, meaning "companion" or "friend," is celebrated for her loyalty. Deborah (meaning "bee") was a prophetess and military leader — a bold, powerful name for a daughter.

New Testament Names: Greek Influence and Early Christian Legacy

The New Testament introduces a different linguistic world — largely Greek, shaped by the Hellenistic culture of the Roman Empire. Names here carry the spirit of the early Christian communities spread across the Mediterranean. Peter (from the Greek "petros," meaning "rock") was the apostle Jesus called his foundation. Andrew (meaning "manly" or "strong") was the first disciple called. Timothy means "honoring God" — a name beloved by the apostle Paul, who addressed two of his letters to young Timothy.

For girls, the New Testament offers Mary (Miriam in Hebrew, meaning "beloved" or "sea of bitterness" — interpretations vary), the most celebrated name in Christian tradition. Lydia, a businesswoman in Acts, lends her name as a strong, independent choice. Phoebe (meaning "radiant") was a deaconess commended by Paul — a bright, classical name with genuine biblical pedigree.

Hebrew Name Meanings: When a Name Is a Prayer

What makes Hebrew names especially powerful is the way they encode meaning. Ancient Israelite parents named their children with intention — each name a spoken hope or declaration. Nathaniel means "God has given." Elijah means "my God is Yahweh." Isaiah means "salvation of the Lord." Ezra means "helper." These are not merely beautiful sounds — they are compressed theology, a lifelong reminder of who the child is and what their parents believed at the moment of naming.

Girls' names carry this same weight: Abigail means "my father's joy." Naomi means "pleasantness." Miriam carries resonances of both bitterness and beloved. Keturah means "incense" — fragrant and rare. These layered meanings make biblical names a gift that goes on giving throughout a child's life.

Rare and Overlooked Biblical Names Worth Reviving

Beyond the well-known Noahs and Sarahs, the Bible is filled with extraordinary names waiting to be rediscovered. Selah — a mysterious term found throughout the Psalms, possibly a musical instruction — has an ethereal, meditative quality perfect for a child. Zipporah, wife of Moses, carries an exotic beauty. Amos, one of the twelve minor prophets, is short, strong, and literary. Tirzah means "pleasantness" and was both a woman's name and a city in ancient Israel. Jethro, Moses' wise father-in-law, is rare enough to feel distinctive while carrying deep historical roots.

Tips for Choosing a Biblical Name

• Research the original Hebrew or Greek meaning — it may deepen your connection to the name
• Consider both the Old and New Testament for a wider range of styles and origins
• Look beyond the most popular biblical names for rarer gems with equally rich histories
• Think about how the name pairs with your family surname and any middle name
• Use our AI generator to explore variations and sibling name combinations