54 Appealing Jewish Boy Names

Unique titles that uphold heavenly virtues from one of the the most ancient cultures.

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Last Updated on Nov 13, 2024

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Jewish baby boy names have a profound history and timeless resonance, embodying the richness of the journey of the Jews. Rooted in tradition and laden with symbolism, these names honor the past and stay rooted in the present, while acting as a guiding light for the future. Each name weaves a narrative, revealing the story of a resilient and dynamic community. These names also have powerful meanings that often demonstrate the values and ideals of the community.

Rooted in the sacred texts of the Tanakh, Jewish baby boy names often encapsulate a divine connection, carrying layers of meaning that intertwine faith and identity. From Adam and David to Joseph and Zacharias, these ancient names link generations of Jewish people.

Jewish names also draw inspiration from Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions. In Ashkenazi tradition, naming a child after a deceased individual is customary. Orthodox circles suggest the selection of the names from the paternal grandfather. In contrast, Sephardi practice names children after living individuals, typically naming the firstborn after the paternal grandfather. Jewish baby names are also influenced by linguistic and cultural elements of Yiddish and Ladino.

Whether you are drawn to the elegant simplicity of Noa or the regal feeling of Ariel, each name carries a legacy that extends beyond its literal meaning. Although of Greek origin, Alexander was embraced by Jews to honor Alexander the Great. Prominent Jewish names like Ari, Benjamin, Jacob, and Solomon are among the top 1000 baby names in the US (1), demonstrating the popularity of Jewish names across the world. Jewish baby names also act as a bridge between generations and a beacon of hope. So comb through our list of Jewish baby boy names and pick the one that resonates most with you. From traditional and classic names, to modern and sophisticated ones, this list has something for every parent.

Name	Gender	Meaning
Joseph	Boy	He will add; Praise
Israel	Boy	God contends
Irving	Unisex	Green water
Yechiel	Boy	May God live
Samael	Boy	Venom of God
Jaciel	Unisex	God is my maker; God will live
Abdel	Boy	Servant of God; Servant of Allah
Shneur	Boy	Two lights
Elie	Boy	Torch; Corposcant; My God is help; My God is Yahweh
Yechezkel	Boy	God will strengthen

Brenner	Boy	To burn
Itai	Boy	With me; The Lord is with me; Do; Act; Perform
Peretz	Boy	Burst forth
Kagan	Boy	Priest; King; Ruler
Berel	Boy	Bear
Nechemia	Boy	Comforted by God
Haron	Boy	Mountain of strength; Exalted
Yoshihiro	Boy	Common good
Yerachmiel	Boy	God will have mercy
Kahn	Boy	Small boat; Priest

Yoshio	Boy	Righteous boy
Lantz	Boy	Spear; Yiddish form of Lancer
Yissachar	Boy	There is a reward
Tanner	Boy	To tan; Prepare leather by tanning; Fir tree; Pine tree
Ephron	Boy	Small deer; Fruitful
Trumann	Boy	A truthful and good natured person
Ben-Tzion	Boy	Son of Zion; Son of excellence
Chananel	Boy	God is compassionate
Chizkiyahu	Boy	God is my strength
Elyakim	Boy	My God will establish

Fivel	Boy	Nursing
Gamliel	Boy	God is my reward
Kalonymos	Boy	Merciful
Manoach	Boy	Resting place
Matitiyahu	Boy	God's gift
Medad	Boy	Friend
Meshulam	Boy	Paid for
Nachshon	Boy	Diviner
Paltiel	Boy	Created by God
Pesachya	Boy	Opening or door

Rachamim	Boy	Compassion
Shabtai	Boy	A derivative of Shabbat
Shmariyahu	Boy	God's protection
Tanchum	Boy	Consolation
Tzadok	Boy	Justice
Tzemach	Boy	Plant
Tzephania	Boy	Protected by God
Yigal	Boy	He will redeem
Yirmiyahu	Boy	God will uplift
Yoran	Boy	Singing

Yoshiaki	Boy	To be happy or to be righteous
Yoshiya	Boy	God delivers
Zerach	Boy	Shining light
Zikmund	Boy	Victorious protection

Jewish baby boy names are immersed in the country’s linguistic and cultural heritage, narrating Jewish people’s enduring legacy. These names are rooted in the sacred texts of the Tanakh and are influenced by the Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Yiddish and Ladino traditions. Giving your child a Jewish name will remind him of the resilient nature of Jews and their history. If you are a parent who wishes to imbibe in their child the strong will, then these Jewish names would be perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you choose a Jewish baby boy's name?

If you are Jewish, you can choose a name based on a tradition. For instance, a name after a deceased relative can be chosen if you belong to the Ashkenazi tradition. Followers of the Sephardic can name a child after a living relative or a deceased one. Another way is to choose a name based on a Jewish holiday or season. You can also name your boy after trailblazing figures such as Albert Einstein or the actor Jerry Lewis.

2. Which cultural considerations are followed when choosing a Jewish baby boy's name?

It is a tradition in Jewish culture to give a sacred name to each of their children. Also, conventionally parents withhold public and familial knowledge of this sacred name until the communal welcome ceremonies occur. According to Jewish cultural tradition, the name of a soul exists before birth, and parents can perceive that name. Reflecting on your secular name and how you feel about it are important considerations when choosing a sacred name (2).

3. What are some lesser-known Jewish baby boy names?

There are many unique and lesser-known Jewish boy names of Hebrew origins. For example, Shai means gift, Abhiri means aroma or strong, and Keshet means bow or rainbow. Lieber means beloved, and Manasseh means God has made me forget. Such lesser-known names will certainly appeal to all your family members.

4. How do I ensure that my chosen Jewish baby boy's name is culturally appropriate and respectful?

There are various ways to pick a culturally appropriate Jewish name for your child. You can translate your English name into Hebrew. For example, Michael is Micha'el in Hebrew. Otherwise, you can pick a name with a similar sound that shares the same first letter. Apart from this, you can choose the name of a Biblical character or a name from the rich Jewish history. Some good examples are David and Moshe (3).

Infographic: Stellar Jewish Baby Boy Names

Jewish baby boy names explore the profound heritage of the Jewish culture. These names, infused with history, pay homage to traditions while embodying timeless significance. Originating from Hebrew, Yiddish, and even Gentile roots, these names have been cherished in Jewish communities over time. Explore our curated collection of exquisite Jewish names for baby boys for a meaningful name-giving journey in our infographic below.

distinctive jewish baby boy names with meanings (infographic)

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Popular baby names
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
Guide to choosing a Jewish name.
http://www.reclaimingjudaism.org/teachings/guide-choosing-jewish-name
Picking a Hebrew name.
https://www.aju.edu/miller-intro-judaism-program/learning-portal/picking-hebrew-name

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.