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.

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).

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.

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 Michael 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).

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6 Jewish Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With T

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Tanner	Boy	To tan; Prepare leather by tanning; Fir tree; Pine tree
Trumann	Boy	A truthful and good natured person
Tanchum	Boy	Consolation
Tzadok	Boy	Justice
Tzemach	Boy	Plant
Tzephania	Boy	Protected by God