Bible Names

Explore 421 biblical names with meanings, arranged A–Z. Search by name or meaning, or jump to a letter.

Guide: Bible Names A–Z Guide

Browse A–Z

Showing 421 of 421 biblical names

A

A (51)

Aaron

OT

High mountain; enlightened

Brother of Moses; first high priest of Israel.

Ref: Ex 4:14

Abba

NT

Father (Aramaic)

Intimate name for God used by Jesus and Christians.

Ref: Mk 14:36

Abednego

OT

Servant of Nego

Companion of Daniel in Babylon; delivered from the furnace.

Ref: Dan 1:7

Abel

OT

Breath; vanity

Righteous son of Adam; type of the innocent just.

Ref: Gen 4:2

Abiathar

OT

Father of abundance

Priest who fled to David.

Ref: 1 Sam 22:20

Abigail

OT

Father’s joy

Wise wife of Nabal; later married to David.

Ref: 1 Sam 25:3

Abijah

OT

The Lord is my father

Name of several biblical figures, including a king of Judah.

Ref: 1 Kgs 14:1

Abimelech

OT

My father is king

Philistine king title/name in Genesis and Judges.

Ref: Gen 20:2

Abner

OT

Father of light

Commander of Saul’s army.

Ref: 1 Sam 14:50

Abraham

OT

Father of many nations

Patriarch of faith; formerly Abram.

Ref: Gen 17:5

Abram

OT

Exalted father

Original name of Abraham.

Ref: Gen 17:5

Absalom

OT

Father of peace

Son of David who rebelled against him.

Ref: 2 Sam 3:3

Achaicus

NT

Belonging to Achaia

Companion of Paul from Corinth.

Ref: 1 Cor 16:17

Achan

OT

Troubler

Took banned spoil at Jericho.

Ref: Josh 7:1

Achaz (Ahaz)

OT

He has grasped

King of Judah in Isaiah’s time.

Ref: Is 7:1

Adaiah

OT

The Lord has adorned

Ancestor name appearing in Kings and Chronicles.

Ref: 2 Kgs 22:1

Adam

OT

Man; of the earth

First human; from adamah (ground).

Ref: Gen 2:7

Adonijah

OT

The Lord is my Lord

Son of David who sought the throne.

Ref: 1 Kgs 1:5

Aeneas

NT

Praise

Paralytic healed by Peter at Lydda.

Ref: Acts 9:33

Agabus

NT

Locust

Prophet who foretold famine and Paul’s binding.

Ref: Acts 11:28

Agar (Hagar)

OT

Flight

Servant of Sarah; mother of Ishmael (Douay spelling Agar).

Ref: Gen 16:1

Agrippa

NT

Born in pain / Herod family name

Herod Agrippa II; Paul speaks before him.

Ref: Acts 25:13

Ahab

OT

Father’s brother

Wicked king of Israel; husband of Jezebel.

Ref: 1 Kgs 16:29

Ahasuerus

OT

Mighty / ruler (Persian)

Persian king in Esther (Xerxes).

Ref: Est 1:1

Ahaz

OT

He has grasped

King of Judah who sought Assyria’s help.

Ref: 2 Kgs 16:1

Ahijah

OT

Brother of the Lord

Prophet who tore the cloak for Jeroboam.

Ref: 1 Kgs 11:29

Ahimelech

OT

My brother is king

Priest of Nob who helped David.

Ref: 1 Sam 21:1

Aholiab

OT

Father’s tent

Craftsman of the Tabernacle with Bezalel.

Ref: Ex 31:6

Alexander

NT

Defender of men

Name of several NT figures (e.g., son of Simon of Cyrene).

Ref: Mk 15:21

Alphaeus

NT

Changing

Father of Levi (Matthew) / of James.

Ref: Mk 2:14

Amalek

OT

Warlike; dweller in the valley

Ancestor of the Amalekites.

Ref: Gen 36:12

Amasa

OT

Burden

Commander under Absalom; later under David.

Ref: 2 Sam 17:25

Amaziah

OT

The Lord is mighty

King of Judah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 14:1

Amos

OT

Burden-bearer

Prophet from Tekoa.

Ref: Am 1:1

Amram

OT

Exalted people

Father of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.

Ref: Ex 6:18

Ananias

NT

The Lord is gracious

Name of several: husband of Sapphira; disciple who baptized Paul; high priest.

Ref: Acts 5:1

Andrew

NT

Manly; courageous

Apostle; brother of Peter; first-called in John.

Ref: Mt 4:18

Anna

NT

Grace

Prophetess who met the infant Jesus in the Temple.

Ref: Lk 2:36

Annas

NT

Humble / merciful

Former high priest; father-in-law of Caiaphas.

Ref: Jn 18:13

Antiochus

OT

Opposer

Seleucid kings opposing the Maccabees.

Ref: 1 Macc 1:10

Apollos

NT

Belonging to Apollo / destroyer

Eloquent teacher from Alexandria.

Ref: Acts 18:24

Aquila

NT

Eagle

Jewish Christian; husband of Priscilla; coworker of Paul.

Ref: Acts 18:2

Archelaus

NT

People’s ruler

Son of Herod; ruled Judea after Herod’s death.

Ref: Mt 2:22

Aristarchus

NT

Best ruler

Companion of Paul; fellow prisoner.

Ref: Acts 19:29

Artaxerxes

OT

Great king (Persian)

Persian king in Ezra–Nehemiah.

Ref: Ezra 4:7

Asa

OT

Physician; healer

King of Judah who sought the Lord.

Ref: 1 Kgs 15:8

Asaph

OT

Gatherer

Levite musician; psalms attributed to him.

Ref: 1 Chr 6:39

Asher

OT

Happy; blessed

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:13

Athaliah

OT

The Lord is exalted

Queen who seized Judah’s throne.

Ref: 2 Kgs 11:1

Augustus

NT

Venerable; majestic

Caesar Augustus; emperor at Jesus’ birth.

Ref: Lk 2:1

Azariah

OT

The Lord has helped

Hebrew name of Abednego; also other figures.

Ref: Dan 1:7

B

B (21)

Baal

OT

Lord; master (pagan deity)

False god opposed by Elijah.

Ref: 1 Kgs 18:21

Balaam

OT

Devourer of the people

Prophet hired to curse Israel; blessed instead.

Ref: Num 22:5

Balak

OT

Devastator

King of Moab who summoned Balaam.

Ref: Num 22:2

Barabbas

NT

Son of the father

Prisoner released instead of Jesus.

Ref: Mt 27:16

Barak

OT

Lightning

Judge who fought with Deborah.

Ref: Jgs 4:6

Barnabas

NT

Son of encouragement

Levite from Cyprus; companion of Paul.

Ref: Acts 4:36

Barsabbas

NT

Son of the Sabbath

Candidate with Matthias to replace Judas.

Ref: Acts 1:23

Bartholomew

NT

Son of Tolmai

Apostle; often identified with Nathanael.

Ref: Mt 10:3

Bartimaeus

NT

Son of Timaeus

Blind man healed by Jesus near Jericho.

Ref: Mk 10:46

Baruch

OT

Blessed

Secretary of Jeremiah; deuterocanonical book.

Ref: Jer 36:4

Bathsheba

OT

Daughter of the oath

Wife of Uriah; later of David; mother of Solomon.

Ref: 2 Sam 11:3

Beelzebub

NT

Lord of the flies

Name for the prince of demons.

Ref: Mt 12:24

Belshazzar

OT

Bel protect the king

Babylonian king of the writing on the wall.

Ref: Dan 5:1

Belteshazzar

OT

Bel protect his life

Babylonian name given to Daniel.

Ref: Dan 1:7

Benaiah

OT

The Lord has built

Mighty man of David; later commander under Solomon.

Ref: 2 Sam 23:20

Benjamin

OT

Son of the right hand

Youngest son of Jacob; Rachel named him Ben-oni first.

Ref: Gen 35:18

Bernice

NT

Bringer of victory

Sister of Agrippa II.

Ref: Acts 25:13

Bethuel

OT

Man of God / dwelling of God

Father of Rebekah.

Ref: Gen 22:22

Bildad

OT

Son of contention

One of Job’s three friends.

Ref: Job 2:11

Bilhah

OT

Trouble; bashful

Handmaid of Rachel; mother of Dan and Naphtali.

Ref: Gen 29:29

Boaz

OT

In him is strength

Kinsman-redeemer of Ruth; ancestor of David.

Ref: Ruth 2:1

C

C (16)

Caiaphas

NT

Depression; hollow

High priest at Jesus’ trial.

Ref: Mt 26:3

Cain

OT

Acquired; possession

Firstborn of Adam; slew Abel.

Ref: Gen 4:1

Caleb

OT

Wholehearted; dog

Faithful spy with Joshua.

Ref: Num 13:6

Canaan

OT

Merchant; lowland

Son of Ham; land of the Canaanites.

Ref: Gen 9:18

Candace

NT

Queen (title)

Queen of the Ethiopians; her eunuch baptized by Philip.

Ref: Acts 8:27

Cephas

NT

Rock (Aramaic)

Name given to Simon Peter by Jesus.

Ref: Jn 1:42

Chloe

NT

Green herb

Woman whose household reported to Paul.

Ref: 1 Cor 1:11

Christ

NT

Anointed One (Greek)

Title of Jesus; equivalent of Messiah.

Ref: Mt 1:16

Chuza

NT

Seer

Herod’s steward; husband of Joanna.

Ref: Lk 8:3

Claudia

NT

Lame (feminine)

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: 2 Tim 4:21

Claudius

NT

Lame

Roman emperor; also Claudius Lysias.

Ref: Acts 11:28

Clement

NT

Merciful; mild

Coworker of Paul (tradition links to Pope Clement).

Ref: Phil 4:3

Cleopas

NT

Glory of the father

Disciple on the road to Emmaus.

Ref: Lk 24:18

Cornelius

NT

Horn

Roman centurion; first Gentile household baptized by Peter.

Ref: Acts 10:1

Crispus

NT

Curled

Synagogue ruler at Corinth baptized by Paul.

Ref: Acts 18:8

Cyrus

OT

Sun; throne

Persian king who allowed the return from exile.

Ref: Is 45:1

D

D (16)

Damaris

NT

Heifer

Woman converted at Athens with Dionysius.

Ref: Acts 17:34

Dan

OT

Judge

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:6

Daniel

OT

God is my judge

Prophet in exile; apocalyptic visions.

Ref: Dan 1:6

Darius

OT

Lord; king (Persian)

Persian/Median ruler associated with Daniel.

Ref: Dan 6:1

Dathan

OT

Fountain

Rebel with Korah against Moses.

Ref: Num 16:1

David

OT

Beloved

Shepherd-king; ancestor of the Messiah.

Ref: 1 Sam 16:13

Deborah

OT

Bee

Prophetess and judge of Israel.

Ref: Jgs 4:4

Delilah

OT

Delicate

Woman who betrayed Samson.

Ref: Jgs 16:4

Demas

NT

Governor of the people

Coworker who later deserted Paul.

Ref: Col 4:14

Demetrius

NT

Belonging to Demeter

Silversmith of Ephesus; also a praised Christian (3 Jn).

Ref: Acts 19:24

Denis / Dionysius

NT

Belonging to Dionysus

Areopagite converted at Athens.

Ref: Acts 17:34

Didymus

NT

Twin

Surname of Thomas the Apostle.

Ref: Jn 11:16

Dinah

OT

Judged; vindicated

Daughter of Jacob and Leah.

Ref: Gen 30:21

Diotrephes

NT

Nourished by Zeus

Church leader who opposed the elder.

Ref: 3 Jn 1:9

Dorcas

NT

Gazelle (Greek of Tabitha)

Disciple at Joppa raised by Peter.

Ref: Acts 9:36

Drusilla

NT

Watered by dew

Wife of Felix; heard Paul.

Ref: Acts 24:24

E

E (30)

Eber

OT

Beyond; the other side

Ancestor of the Hebrews.

Ref: Gen 10:21

Eglon

OT

Calf-like

Moabite king defeated by Ehud.

Ref: Jgs 3:12

Ehud

OT

United; strong

Judge who delivered Israel from Moab.

Ref: Jgs 3:15

Eleazar

OT

God has helped

Son of Aaron; high priest after him.

Ref: Ex 6:23

Eli

OT

Ascended; my God

Priest and judge; mentor of Samuel.

Ref: 1 Sam 1:3

Eliakim

OT

God raises up

Steward under Hezekiah; also a royal name.

Ref: Is 22:20

Elias (Elijah)

OT

The Lord is God

Prophet of Mount Carmel; Douay: Elias.

Ref: 1 Kgs 17:1

Eliezer

OT

God is help

Steward of Abraham; also son of Moses.

Ref: Gen 15:2

Elihu

OT

He is my God

Young man who speaks to Job.

Ref: Job 32:2

Elijah

OT

The Lord is God

Prophet taken up in a whirlwind; forerunner type of the Baptist.

Ref: 1 Kgs 17:1

Elimelech

OT

My God is king

Husband of Naomi; father-in-law of Ruth.

Ref: Ruth 1:2

Eliphaz

OT

My God is fine gold

One of Job’s three friends.

Ref: Job 2:11

Elisha

OT

God is salvation

Prophet successor of Elijah.

Ref: 1 Kgs 19:16

Elizabeth

NT

God is my oath

Mother of John the Baptist; kinswoman of Mary.

Ref: Lk 1:5

Elkanah

OT

God has created / possessed

Father of Samuel.

Ref: 1 Sam 1:1

Emmanuel

OT

God with us

Prophetic name of the Messiah; Mt 1:23.

Ref: Is 7:14

Enoch

OT

Dedicated; initiated

Walked with God; taken up; also Cain’s son.

Ref: Gen 5:18

Enos (Enosh)

OT

Man; mortal

Son of Seth; men began to call on the Lord.

Ref: Gen 4:26

Epaphras

NT

Lovely

Coworker of Paul; from Colossae.

Ref: Col 1:7

Epaphroditus

NT

Lovely; belonging to Aphrodite

Messenger from Philippi to Paul.

Ref: Phil 2:25

Ephraim

OT

Fruitful

Son of Joseph; leading northern tribe.

Ref: Gen 41:52

Erastus

NT

Beloved

Coworker of Paul; city treasurer in Romans 16.

Ref: Acts 19:22

Esau

OT

Hairy

Twin of Jacob; father of Edom.

Ref: Gen 25:25

Esther

OT

Star

Jewish queen who saved her people; Hebrew name Hadassah.

Ref: Est 2:7

Ethan

OT

Enduring; strong

Wise man; psalm attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite.

Ref: 1 Kgs 4:31

Eunice

NT

Good victory

Mother of Timothy; woman of sincere faith.

Ref: 2 Tim 1:5

Eutychus

NT

Fortunate

Youth raised by Paul at Troas.

Ref: Acts 20:9

Eve

OT

Living; life

Mother of all the living; New Eve typology for Mary.

Ref: Gen 3:20

Ezekiel

OT

God strengthens

Prophet-priest of the exile.

Ref: Ezek 1:3

Ezra

OT

Help

Scribe and priest who restored the Law.

Ref: Ezra 7:1

F

F (3)

Felix

NT

Happy; fortunate

Roman governor who heard Paul.

Ref: Acts 24:3

Festus

NT

Festival; joyful

Governor who succeeded Felix.

Ref: Acts 24:27

Fortunatus

NT

Fortunate

Christian from Corinth who visited Paul.

Ref: 1 Cor 16:17

G

G (11)

Gabriel

NT

God is my strength

Archangel of the Annunciation.

Ref: Lk 1:19

Gad

OT

Fortune; troop

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:11

Gaius

NT

Lord

Companion of Paul; several NT men named Gaius.

Ref: Acts 19:29

Gallio

NT

One who lives on milk

Proconsul of Achaia who dismissed charges against Paul.

Ref: Acts 18:12

Gamaliel

NT

God is my reward

Pharisee teacher; mentor of Saul/Paul.

Ref: Acts 5:34

Gedaliah

OT

The Lord is great

Governor of Judah after the exile began.

Ref: 2 Kgs 25:22

Gehazi

OT

Valley of vision

Servant of Elisha.

Ref: 2 Kgs 4:12

Gideon

OT

Hewer; feller

Judge who defeated Midian with 300 men.

Ref: Jgs 6:11

Gog

OT

Mountain / roof

Enemy figure of the last days; also Magog.

Ref: Ezek 38:2

Goliath

OT

Exile; soothsayer

Philistine giant slain by David.

Ref: 1 Sam 17:4

Gomer

OT

Complete

Wife of Hosea; also a son of Japheth.

Ref: Hos 1:3

H

H (22)

Habakkuk

OT

Embrace

Prophet of the book of Habakkuk.

Ref: Hab 1:1

Hadassah

OT

Myrtle

Hebrew name of Esther.

Ref: Est 2:7

Hagar

OT

Flight

Egyptian servant of Sarah; mother of Ishmael.

Ref: Gen 16:1

Haggai

OT

Festive

Prophet who urged rebuilding the Temple.

Ref: Hag 1:1

Ham

OT

Hot; burnt

Son of Noah.

Ref: Gen 5:32

Haman

OT

Magnificent; noise

Enemy of the Jews in Esther.

Ref: Est 3:1

Hananiah

OT

The Lord is gracious

Hebrew name of Shadrach; also other figures.

Ref: Dan 1:6

Hannah

OT

Grace; favor

Mother of Samuel; model of prayer.

Ref: 1 Sam 1:2

Hazael

OT

God has seen

King of Aram; anointed through Elijah’s mission.

Ref: 1 Kgs 19:15

Heber

OT

Companion; enclave

Husband of Jael; also ancestor name.

Ref: Jgs 4:11

Hermas

NT

Mercury

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:14

Hermes

NT

Messenger (Greek god name)

Crowd at Lystra called Paul “Hermes.”

Ref: Acts 14:12

Herod

NT

Heroic; son of a hero

Name of several rulers: Herod the Great, Antipas, Agrippa.

Ref: Mt 2:1

Herodias

NT

Heroic

Wife of Herod Antipas; sought John the Baptist’s death.

Ref: Mk 6:17

Hezekiah

OT

The Lord strengthens

Faithful king of Judah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 18:1

Hilkiah

OT

The Lord is my portion

Priest who found the Book of the Law under Josiah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 22:4

Hiram

OT

Noble; brother of the exalted

King of Tyre; ally of David and Solomon.

Ref: 1 Kgs 5:1

Hosea

OT

Salvation

Prophet of God’s faithful love.

Ref: Hos 1:1

Hoshea

OT

Salvation

Last king of Israel; also original name of Joshua.

Ref: 2 Kgs 17:1

Huldah

OT

Weasel; mole

Prophetess consulted by King Josiah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 22:14

Hur

OT

Hole; liberty

Helped hold up Moses’ hands; also other figures.

Ref: Ex 17:10

Hushai

OT

Hasting

Friend of David who counseled Absalom.

Ref: 2 Sam 15:32

I

I (11)

Ichabod

OT

The glory has departed

Son of Phinehas; named at the Ark’s capture.

Ref: 1 Sam 4:21

Immanuel

OT

God with us

Same as Emmanuel; Messianic name.

Ref: Is 7:14

Isaac

OT

He laughs

Son of the promise; patriarch.

Ref: Gen 21:3

Isaiah

OT

The Lord is salvation

Major prophet of the Messiah and the Servant.

Ref: Is 1:1

Iscariot

NT

Man of Kerioth

Surname of Judas who betrayed Jesus.

Ref: Mt 10:4

Ishbosheth

OT

Man of shame

Son of Saul; rival king to David.

Ref: 2 Sam 2:8

Ishmael

OT

God hears

Son of Abraham and Hagar.

Ref: Gen 16:11

Israel

OT

He struggles with God

Name given to Jacob; name of the people.

Ref: Gen 32:28

Issachar

OT

There is recompense

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:18

Ithamar

OT

Island of palms

Son of Aaron; priestly line.

Ref: Ex 6:23

Izhak / Isaac

OT

He laughs

Variant of Isaac.

Ref: Gen 17:19

J

J (44)

Jabal

OT

Stream; moving

Father of those who dwell in tents and have livestock.

Ref: Gen 4:20

Jabin

OT

Discerner; he understands

Canaanite king opposed by Deborah and Barak.

Ref: Jgs 4:2

Jacob

OT

Supplanter; heel-grabber

Patriarch; later named Israel.

Ref: Gen 25:26

Jael

OT

Mountain goat

Woman who killed Sisera.

Ref: Jgs 4:17

Jairus

NT

He enlightens

Synagogue ruler; Jesus raised his daughter.

Ref: Mk 5:22

Jambres

NT

Opponent

With Jannes, opposed Moses (tradition).

Ref: 2 Tim 3:8

James

NT

Supplanter (from Jacob)

Name of two apostles and the “brother of the Lord.”

Ref: Mt 4:21

Japheth

OT

Enlarged

Son of Noah.

Ref: Gen 5:32

Jason

NT

Healer

Host of Paul at Thessalonica; also Rom 16:21.

Ref: Acts 17:5

Jebus

OT

Trodden down

Old name related to Jerusalem’s Jebusite past.

Ref: 1 Chr 11:4

Jeconiah

OT

The Lord establishes

King of Judah; also called Jehoiachin / Coniah.

Ref: Mt 1:11

Jedidiah

OT

Beloved of the Lord

Name given to Solomon by Nathan.

Ref: 2 Sam 12:25

Jehoiakim

OT

The Lord raises up

King of Judah in Jeremiah’s time.

Ref: 2 Kgs 23:34

Jehoshaphat

OT

The Lord judges

King of Judah; valley of decision (Joel).

Ref: 1 Kgs 22:41

Jehovah / YHWH

OT

I AM; the Lord

The sacred Divine Name revealed to Moses.

Ref: Ex 3:14

Jehu

OT

The Lord is He

King who destroyed the house of Ahab.

Ref: 2 Kgs 9:2

Jephthah

OT

He opens

Judge who made a rash vow.

Ref: Jgs 11:1

Jeremiah

OT

The Lord exalts

Prophet of the new covenant; weeping prophet.

Ref: Jer 1:1

Jeroboam

OT

The people increase

First king of the northern kingdom.

Ref: 1 Kgs 11:26

Jerubbaal

OT

Let Baal contend

Surname of Gideon.

Ref: Jgs 6:32

Jesse

OT

Gift; wealthy

Father of David; root of Jesse (Is 11).

Ref: 1 Sam 16:1

Jesus

NT

The Lord saves

Name of the Son of God; also Joshua in Greek form.

Ref: Mt 1:21

Jethro

OT

His excellence

Priest of Midian; father-in-law of Moses (Reuel).

Ref: Ex 3:1

Jezebel

OT

Unchaste / where is the prince?

Wife of Ahab; persecuted the prophets.

Ref: 1 Kgs 16:31

Joab

OT

The Lord is father

Commander of David’s army.

Ref: 2 Sam 2:13

Joanna

NT

The Lord is gracious

Disciple who supported Jesus; witness of the empty tomb.

Ref: Lk 8:3

Joash

OT

The Lord has given

King of Judah preserved by Jehoiada.

Ref: 2 Kgs 11:2

Job

OT

Persecuted; hated

Righteous sufferer; model of perseverance.

Ref: Job 1:1

Joel

OT

The Lord is God

Prophet of the Day of the Lord and the Spirit.

Ref: Joel 1:1

John

NT

The Lord is gracious

Baptist; Apostle; several other NT Johns.

Ref: Lk 1:13

Jonah

OT

Dove

Prophet sent to Nineveh; sign of the Resurrection.

Ref: Jon 1:1

Jonathan

OT

The Lord has given

Son of Saul; covenant friend of David.

Ref: 1 Sam 14:1

Joram (Jehoram)

OT

The Lord is exalted

Kings of Israel and Judah bearing this name.

Ref: 2 Kgs 3:1

Joseph

OT

May He add

Son of Jacob; also St. Joseph, husband of Mary.

Ref: Gen 30:24

Joshua

OT

The Lord saves

Successor of Moses; Hebrew form of Jesus’ name.

Ref: Josh 1:1

Josiah

OT

The Lord supports

Reforming king of Judah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 22:1

Jotham

OT

The Lord is perfect

Son of Gideon; also a king of Judah.

Ref: Jgs 9:5

Judah

OT

Praise

Son of Jacob; royal tribe of the Messiah.

Ref: Gen 29:35

Judas

NT

Praise (from Judah)

Iscariot; also Judas (Jude) the apostle; Judas Barsabbas.

Ref: Mt 10:4

Jude

NT

Praise

Author of the Epistle; apostle Thaddeus.

Ref: Jude 1:1

Judith

OT

Jewess; praised

Heroine of the Book of Judith.

Ref: Jdt 8:1

Julia

NT

Downy; youthful

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:15

Julius

NT

Downy-bearded

Centurion who escorted Paul to Rome.

Ref: Acts 27:1

Justus

NT

Just; righteous

Surname of Joseph Barsabbas; also others.

Ref: Acts 1:23

K

K (5)

Kedemah

OT

Eastward

Son of Ishmael.

Ref: Gen 25:15

Kenaz

OT

Hunter

Father of Othniel; also other figures.

Ref: Josh 15:17

Keturah

OT

Incense

Wife of Abraham after Sarah.

Ref: Gen 25:1

Kish

OT

Bow; power

Father of Saul.

Ref: 1 Sam 9:1

Korah

OT

Baldness

Levite who rebelled against Moses.

Ref: Num 16:1

L

L (13)

Laban

OT

White

Brother of Rebekah; father of Leah and Rachel.

Ref: Gen 24:29

Lamech

OT

Powerful; overthrower

Descendant of Cain; also father of Noah.

Ref: Gen 4:18

Lazarus

NT

God has helped

Brother of Martha and Mary; also beggar in the parable.

Ref: Jn 11:1

Leah

OT

Weary

First wife of Jacob; mother of six tribes.

Ref: Gen 29:16

Lebbaeus

NT

Heart-man

Surname related to Thaddeus (Jude).

Ref: Mt 10:3

Lemuel

OT

Belonging to God

King taught by his mother (Proverbs 31).

Ref: Prov 31:1

Levi

OT

Joined; attached

Son of Jacob; priestly tribe; also Matthew’s name.

Ref: Gen 29:34

Lois

NT

Better; agreeable

Grandmother of Timothy.

Ref: 2 Tim 1:5

Lot

OT

Veil; covering

Nephew of Abraham; rescued from Sodom.

Ref: Gen 11:27

Lucius

NT

Light

Prophet/teacher at Antioch; also Rom 16:21.

Ref: Acts 13:1

Luke

NT

Light-giving

Evangelist; beloved physician; companion of Paul.

Ref: Col 4:14

Lydia

NT

From Lydia

Seller of purple at Philippi; first European convert named.

Ref: Acts 16:14

Lysias

NT

Releaser

Claudius Lysias, Roman tribune.

Ref: Acts 23:26

M

M (27)

Maacah

OT

Oppression

Name of several women and a small kingdom.

Ref: 2 Sam 3:3

Magdalene

NT

Of Magdala

Mary Magdalene; first witness of the Resurrection.

Ref: Lk 8:2

Mahalalel

OT

Praise of God

Patriarch in Seth’s line.

Ref: Gen 5:12

Malachi

OT

My messenger

Last prophet of the Old Testament canon.

Ref: Mal 1:1

Malchus

NT

King; kingdom

Servant of the high priest; ear cut by Peter.

Ref: Jn 18:10

Manasseh

OT

Causing to forget

Son of Joseph; also a king of Judah.

Ref: Gen 41:51

Manoah

OT

Rest

Father of Samson.

Ref: Jgs 13:2

Mark

NT

Warlike; hammer

Evangelist; John Mark; companion of Peter and Paul.

Ref: Acts 12:12

Martha

NT

Lady; mistress

Sister of Mary and Lazarus of Bethany.

Ref: Lk 10:38

Mary

NT

Beloved; bitter; wished-for child (debated)

Mother of Jesus; also Magdalene and others.

Ref: Lk 1:27

Matthew

NT

Gift of the Lord

Apostle and Evangelist; also called Levi.

Ref: Mt 9:9

Matthias

NT

Gift of the Lord

Chosen to replace Judas among the Twelve.

Ref: Acts 1:26

Melchizedek

OT

King of righteousness

Priest-king of Salem; type of Christ’s priesthood.

Ref: Gen 14:18

Menahem

OT

Comforter

King of Israel.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:14

Mephibosheth

OT

From the mouth of shame

Son of Jonathan; shown kindness by David.

Ref: 2 Sam 4:4

Merab

OT

Increase

Daughter of Saul.

Ref: 1 Sam 14:49

Meshach

OT

Guest of the king (Babylonian)

Companion of Daniel; Hebrew name Mishael.

Ref: Dan 1:7

Methuselah

OT

Man of the dart / long life

Longest-lived patriarch.

Ref: Gen 5:21

Micah

OT

Who is like the Lord?

Prophet; also other figures (e.g., Judges 17).

Ref: Mic 1:1

Micaiah

OT

Who is like the Lord?

Prophet who opposed Ahab’s false prophets.

Ref: 1 Kgs 22:8

Michael

OT

Who is like God?

Archangel; defender of God’s people.

Ref: Dan 12:1

Michal

OT

Who is like God?

Daughter of Saul; wife of David.

Ref: 1 Sam 14:49

Miriam

OT

Beloved; bitter (same root as Mary)

Sister of Moses; prophetess.

Ref: Ex 15:20

Mishael

OT

Who is what God is?

Hebrew name of Meshach.

Ref: Dan 1:6

Moab

OT

Of his father

Son of Lot; ancestor of the Moabites.

Ref: Gen 19:37

Mordecai

OT

Warrior; little man

Cousin and guardian of Esther.

Ref: Est 2:5

Moses

OT

Drawn out

Liberator and lawgiver of Israel.

Ref: Ex 2:10

N

N (18)

Naaman

OT

Pleasantness

Syrian commander healed of leprosy by Elisha.

Ref: 2 Kgs 5:1

Nabal

OT

Fool

Husband of Abigail.

Ref: 1 Sam 25:3

Naboth

OT

Fruits; prominence

Owner of the vineyard coveted by Ahab.

Ref: 1 Kgs 21:1

Nadab

OT

Generous; noble

Son of Aaron; offered unauthorized fire.

Ref: Lev 10:1

Nahum

OT

Comfort

Prophet against Nineveh.

Ref: Nah 1:1

Naomi

OT

Pleasant

Mother-in-law of Ruth; called herself Mara in grief.

Ref: Ruth 1:2

Naphtali

OT

My wrestling

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:8

Nathan

OT

He has given

Prophet who confronted David; also a son of David.

Ref: 2 Sam 7:2

Nathanael

NT

God has given

Disciple of Jesus; often identified with Bartholomew.

Ref: Jn 1:45

Nebuchadnezzar

OT

Nabu protect the boundary

King of Babylon who exiled Judah.

Ref: Dan 1:1

Nehemiah

OT

The Lord comforts

Governor who rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls.

Ref: Neh 1:1

Neri

NT

The Lord is my lamp

Ancestor in Luke’s genealogy of Jesus.

Ref: Lk 3:27

Nicanor

OT

Victorious

Syrian general; also a deacon in Acts 6:5.

Ref: 1 Macc 7:26

Nicodemus

NT

Victory of the people

Pharisee who came to Jesus by night.

Ref: Jn 3:1

Nicolas

NT

Victory of the people

One of the seven deacons.

Ref: Acts 6:5

Nimrod

OT

Rebel; mighty hunter

Mighty hunter before the Lord.

Ref: Gen 10:8

Noah

OT

Rest; comfort

Righteous man saved through the Flood.

Ref: Gen 5:29

Nymphas

NT

Bridegroom

Christian who hosted a house church.

Ref: Col 4:15

O

O (15)

Obadiah

OT

Servant of the Lord

Prophet; also a steward of Ahab who hid prophets.

Ref: Obad 1:1

Obed

OT

Servant; worshiper

Son of Ruth and Boaz; grandfather of David.

Ref: Ruth 4:17

Obed-edom

OT

Servant of Edom

Kept the Ark; blessed by the Lord.

Ref: 2 Sam 6:10

Og

OT

Long-necked; giant

King of Bashan defeated by Israel.

Ref: Num 21:33

Oholibamah

OT

Tent of the high place

Wife of Esau.

Ref: Gen 36:2

Olympas

NT

Heavenly

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:15

Omar

OT

Eloquent; mountain dweller

Grandson of Esau.

Ref: Gen 36:11

Omri

OT

Sheaf; pupil of the Lord

King of Israel; builder of Samaria.

Ref: 1 Kgs 16:16

Onesimus

NT

Useful; profitable

Runaway slave converted; subject of Philemon.

Ref: Phlm 1:10

Onesiphorus

NT

Bringing profit

Friend who refreshed Paul in Rome.

Ref: 2 Tim 1:16

Ophrah

OT

Fawn

Hometown of Gideon (place); also a person name.

Ref: Jgs 6:11

Oreb

OT

Raven

Midianite prince slain by Gideon’s men.

Ref: Jgs 7:25

Orpah

OT

Neck; fawn

Sister-in-law of Ruth who returned to Moab.

Ref: Ruth 1:4

Othniel

OT

Lion of God

First judge of Israel.

Ref: Jgs 3:9

Ozem

OT

Strength

Brother of David.

Ref: 1 Chr 2:15

P

P (26)

Pagiel

OT

God meets

Leader of the tribe of Asher.

Ref: Num 1:13

Parmenas

NT

Abiding

One of the seven deacons.

Ref: Acts 6:5

Paul

NT

Small; little

Apostle to the Gentiles; formerly Saul.

Ref: Acts 13:9

Pedaiah

OT

The Lord has ransomed

Name appearing in royal genealogies.

Ref: 1 Chr 3:18

Pekah

OT

Open-eyed

King of Israel.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:25

Pekahiah

OT

The Lord has opened the eyes

King of Israel slain by Pekah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:23

Peleg

OT

Division

In his days the earth was divided.

Ref: Gen 10:25

Peninnah

OT

Pearl; coral

Rival wife of Elkanah.

Ref: 1 Sam 1:2

Perez

OT

Breach

Son of Judah; ancestor of David.

Ref: Gen 38:29

Persis

NT

Persian woman

Christian woman who worked hard in the Lord.

Ref: Rom 16:12

Peter

NT

Rock

Prince of the apostles; Simon Cephas.

Ref: Mt 16:18

Phanuel

NT

Face of God

Father of Anna the prophetess.

Ref: Lk 2:36

Pharaoh

OT

Great house (title)

Title of Egyptian kings in Scripture.

Ref: Ex 1:11

Philemon

NT

Loving

Christian to whom Paul wrote about Onesimus.

Ref: Phlm 1:1

Philetus

NT

Beloved

False teacher with Hymenaeus.

Ref: 2 Tim 2:17

Philip

NT

Lover of horses

Apostle; also the deacon-evangelist; Herod Philip.

Ref: Mt 10:3

Philologus

NT

Lover of the word

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:15

Phinehas

OT

Mouth of brass / oracle

Zealous priest; grandson of Aaron.

Ref: Num 25:7

Phoebe

NT

Radiant; pure

Deaconess of Cenchreae; bearer of Romans.

Ref: Rom 16:1

Pilate

NT

Armed with a spear

Pontius Pilate; Roman governor who condemned Jesus.

Ref: Mt 27:2

Potiphar

OT

Belonging to the sun

Egyptian official who bought Joseph.

Ref: Gen 37:36

Prisca / Priscilla

NT

Ancient; venerable

Wife of Aquila; teacher with Paul.

Ref: Acts 18:2

Prochorus

NT

Leader of the dance

One of the seven deacons.

Ref: Acts 6:5

Publius

NT

Popular

Chief man of Malta who hosted Paul.

Ref: Acts 28:7

Pudens

NT

Modest

Christian greeted by Paul.

Ref: 2 Tim 4:21

Pul

OT

Lord (Assyrian)

Name for Tiglath-pileser III in Scripture.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:19

Q

Q (2)

Quartus

NT

Fourth

Christian who sends greetings with Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:23

Quirinius

NT

Warrior (Latin)

Governor of Syria at the census.

Ref: Lk 2:2

R

R (12)

Rachel

OT

Ewe

Beloved wife of Jacob; mother of Joseph and Benjamin.

Ref: Gen 29:6

Rahab

OT

Broad; spacious

Woman of Jericho who sheltered the spies; in Jesus’ genealogy.

Ref: Josh 2:1

Ram

OT

High; exalted

Ancestor of David.

Ref: Ruth 4:19

Raphael

OT

God heals

Archangel in Tobit; guide and healer.

Ref: Tob 12:15

Rebekah

OT

To tie; captivating

Wife of Isaac; mother of Esau and Jacob.

Ref: Gen 24:15

Rehoboam

OT

The people are enlarged

Son of Solomon; kingdom divided under him.

Ref: 1 Kgs 11:43

Reuben

OT

Behold a son

Firstborn of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 29:32

Reuel

OT

Friend of God

Also called Jethro; father-in-law of Moses.

Ref: Ex 2:18

Rhoda

NT

Rose

Servant girl who announced Peter’s release.

Ref: Acts 12:13

Rizpah

OT

Hot coal

Concubine of Saul; devoted mother.

Ref: 2 Sam 3:7

Rufus

NT

Red

Son of Simon of Cyrene; greeted in Rom 16:13.

Ref: Mk 15:21

Ruth

OT

Friendship; companion

Moabite ancestress of David and of Christ.

Ref: Ruth 1:4

S

S (31)

Salome

NT

Peace

Woman at the Cross; also Herodias’s daughter (tradition).

Ref: Mk 15:40

Samson

OT

Sun; strength

Judge of extraordinary strength.

Ref: Jgs 13:24

Samuel

OT

Heard by God / name of God

Prophet, priest, and judge who anointed kings.

Ref: 1 Sam 1:20

Sanballat

OT

Sin (moon god) has given life

Opponent of Nehemiah’s rebuilding.

Ref: Neh 2:10

Sapphira

NT

Sapphire; beautiful

Wife of Ananias; judged for deceit.

Ref: Acts 5:1

Sarah

OT

Princess

Wife of Abraham; mother of Isaac; formerly Sarai.

Ref: Gen 17:15

Sarai

OT

My princess

Original name of Sarah.

Ref: Gen 11:29

Saul

OT

Asked for; prayed for

First king of Israel; also Hebrew name of Paul.

Ref: 1 Sam 9:2

Sceva

NT

Mind reader

Jewish chief priest whose sons tried exorcism at Ephesus.

Ref: Acts 19:14

Sennacherib

OT

Sin has increased brothers

Assyrian king who attacked Judah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 18:13

Sergius

NT

Earth-born; wonder

Sergius Paulus, proconsul converted on Cyprus.

Ref: Acts 13:7

Seth

OT

Appointed; placed

Son of Adam; line of the promise.

Ref: Gen 4:25

Shadrach

OT

Command of Aku (Babylonian)

Companion of Daniel; Hebrew Hananiah.

Ref: Dan 1:7

Shallum

OT

Recompense

King of Israel; also other figures.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:10

Sharon (person rare)

OT

Plain

Mostly place-name; Rose of Sharon.

Ref: Song 2:1

Sheba

OT

Oath; seven

Queen of Sheba who visited Solomon.

Ref: 1 Kgs 10:1

Shechem

OT

Shoulder

Son of Hamor; also a city.

Ref: Gen 34:2

Shem

OT

Name; renown

Son of Noah; ancestor of Abraham.

Ref: Gen 5:32

Shiloh

OT

Peace; he whose it is

Messianic title in Jacob’s blessing; also place of the Tabernacle.

Ref: Gen 49:10

Silas

NT

Wood; forest

Companion of Paul; also called Silvanus.

Ref: Acts 15:22

Simeon

OT

He has heard

Son of Jacob; also righteous man in Luke 2.

Ref: Gen 29:33

Simon

NT

He has heard

Peter’s birth name; also Simon the Zealot; Simon Magus; Simon of Cyrene.

Ref: Mt 4:18

Sisera

OT

Battle array

Canaanite commander killed by Jael.

Ref: Jgs 4:2

Solomon

OT

Peace

Son of David; wise king; Temple builder.

Ref: 2 Sam 12:24

Sopater

NT

Savior of the father

Companion of Paul from Berea.

Ref: Acts 20:4

Sosipater

NT

Savior of the father

Kinsman of Paul who sends greetings.

Ref: Rom 16:21

Sosthenes

NT

Safe strength

Synagogue ruler at Corinth; with Paul in 1 Cor 1:1.

Ref: Acts 18:17

Stephanas

NT

Crown

Firstfruits of Achaia; household baptized by Paul.

Ref: 1 Cor 1:16

Stephen

NT

Crown

First martyr; one of the seven deacons.

Ref: Acts 6:5

Susanna

NT

Lily

Disciple who supported Jesus; also heroine of Daniel 13 (deuterocanonical).

Ref: Lk 8:3

Syntyche

NT

With fate; fortunate

Christian woman at Philippi urged to agree in the Lord.

Ref: Phil 4:2

T

T (19)

Tabitha

NT

Gazelle (Aramaic)

Disciple at Joppa; Greek name Dorcas.

Ref: Acts 9:36

Tamar

OT

Palm tree

Daughter-in-law of Judah; also daughter of David.

Ref: Gen 38:6

Terah

OT

Delay; station

Father of Abraham.

Ref: Gen 11:24

Tertius

NT

Third

Scribe who wrote Romans for Paul.

Ref: Rom 16:22

Tertullus

NT

Third (diminutive)

Orator who accused Paul before Felix.

Ref: Acts 24:1

Thaddeus

NT

Courageous heart

Apostle; also called Jude / Lebbaeus.

Ref: Mt 10:3

Theophilus

NT

Friend of God

Addressee of Luke and Acts.

Ref: Lk 1:3

Theudas

NT

Gift of God

Rebel mentioned by Gamaliel.

Ref: Acts 5:36

Thomas

NT

Twin

Apostle; confessed “My Lord and my God.”

Ref: Jn 11:16

Tiglath-pileser

OT

My trust is in the son of Esharra

Assyrian king; also called Pul.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:29

Timon

NT

Honorable

One of the seven deacons.

Ref: Acts 6:5

Timothy

NT

Honoring God

Beloved disciple and coworker of Paul.

Ref: Acts 16:1

Titus

NT

Title of honor; nurse

Coworker of Paul; recipient of the Epistle to Titus.

Ref: 2 Cor 2:13

Tobiah

OT

The Lord is good

Opponent of Nehemiah; also Tobit/Tobias tradition.

Ref: Neh 2:10

Tobias

OT

The Lord is good

Son of Tobit in the Book of Tobit.

Ref: Tob 1:9

Tobit

OT

The Lord is good

Father of Tobias; book of prayer and providence.

Ref: Tob 1:1

Trophimus

NT

Nutritious; foster-child

Ephesian companion of Paul.

Ref: Acts 20:4

Tychicus

NT

Fortunate

Beloved brother; letter-bearer for Paul.

Ref: Acts 20:4

Tyrannus

NT

Tyrant

Owner of the hall where Paul taught at Ephesus.

Ref: Acts 19:9

U

U (4)

Uriah

OT

The Lord is my light

Hittite husband of Bathsheba; faithful soldier.

Ref: 2 Sam 11:3

Uriel

OT

God is my light

Archangel in tradition; also a name in Chronicles.

Ref: 2 Esdras / tradition

Uzziah

OT

The Lord is my strength

King of Judah; also called Azariah.

Ref: 2 Kgs 15:13

Uzziel

OT

God is my strength

Uncle of Moses; Levitical ancestor.

Ref: Ex 6:18

V

V (2)

Vashni

OT

Second; weak

Variant related to Samuel’s sons in some texts.

Ref: 1 Chr 6:28

Vashti

OT

Beautiful; thread

Queen of Ahasuerus before Esther.

Ref: Est 1:9

X

X (1)

Xerxes

OT

Ruler over heroes

Greek form associated with Ahasuerus in Esther.

Ref: Est 1:1

Y

Y (3)

Yahweh

OT

I AM; the Lord

Vocalization of the Divine Name used in scholarship and some prayers.

Ref: Ex 3:15

Yeshua

OT

The Lord saves

Hebrew/Aramaic form of Joshua/Jesus; high priest after exile; the holy Name of Christ.

Ref: Ezra 3:2

YHWH

OT

I AM; He Who Is

The sacred Tetragrammaton; rendered LORD in most Catholic Bibles.

Ref: Ex 3:14

Z

Z (18)

Zacchaeus

NT

Pure; innocent

Tax collector of Jericho who welcomed Jesus.

Ref: Lk 19:2

Zacharias (Zechariah)

NT

The Lord remembers

Father of John the Baptist; Douay: Zachary.

Ref: Lk 1:5

Zadok

OT

Righteous

Priest loyal to David and Solomon.

Ref: 2 Sam 8:17

Zalmunna

OT

Shade withheld

Midianite king defeated by Gideon.

Ref: Jgs 8:5

Zebedee

NT

Gift of God

Father of James and John.

Ref: Mt 4:21

Zebulun

OT

Dwelling; honor

Son of Jacob; one of the twelve tribes.

Ref: Gen 30:20

Zechariah

OT

The Lord remembers

Prophet; also many priests and kings.

Ref: Zech 1:1

Zedekiah

OT

The Lord is righteousness

Last king of Judah before the exile.

Ref: 2 Kgs 24:17

Zelophehad

OT

Firstborn shadow

Man whose daughters received inheritance.

Ref: Num 27:1

Zephaniah

OT

The Lord has hidden

Prophet of the Day of the Lord.

Ref: Zeph 1:1

Zerah

OT

Dawn; rising

Twin of Perez; also other figures.

Ref: Gen 38:30

Zerubbabel

OT

Seed of Babylon

Leader who rebuilt the Temple after exile.

Ref: Ezra 2:2

Zilpah

OT

Drooping

Handmaid of Leah; mother of Gad and Asher.

Ref: Gen 29:24

Zimri

OT

My music; praiseworthy

King of Israel for seven days; also Num 25.

Ref: 1 Kgs 16:9

Zion

OT

Fortress; monument

Mostly place/title for Jerusalem and God’s people.

Ref: 2 Sam 5:7

Zipporah

OT

Bird

Wife of Moses; daughter of Jethro.

Ref: Ex 2:21

Zoheleth

OT

Serpent

Stone of Zoheleth (place); listed for completeness of Z names.

Ref: 1 Kgs 1:9

Zophar

OT

Sparrow; departing

One of Job’s three friends.

Ref: Job 2:11