Judah etymology

Etymology and Meaning

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: "Praise"

Origin and Biblical Significance

  • Hebrew word: יְהוּדָה (Yehudah)
  • First mentioned: Genesis 29:35
  • Father: Jacob
  • Mother: Leah

Biblical Background

Judah was the fourth son of Jacob and the fifth son born in Mesopotamia. His name was given by his mother, Leah, who exclaimed "Now I will praise the Lord" (Genesis 29:35).

Judah played a significant role in the biblical narrative:

  • He was the leader of the tribe of Judah, which became the dominant tribe in the southern kingdom of Israel.
  • He helped convince his brothers to sell their youngest brother Joseph into slavery (Genesis 37).
  • He married the daughter of a Canaanite named Shua and had three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah (Genesis 38).
  • Through his son Perez, he was an ancestor of King David and ultimately of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:2-16).

Usage in Names

The name Judah has been used as both a given name and a surname throughout history. It remains a popular name in Jewish communities, particularly among those who trace their lineage to the tribe of Judah.

Variations

  • Jude (English)
  • Judas (German, Spanish)
  • Yehuda (Hebrew)

Judah relate terms

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    Etymology The name Judas is derived from the Hebrew name Yehudah יהודה which

  • Judah

    Etymology and Meaning Origin Hebrew Meaning Praise Origin and Biblical Significanc

  • Jude

    Etymology From the Latin name Iudas which is derived from the Greek Ιούδας Ioud

  • Judah

    Etymology and Meaning Origin Hebrew Meaning Praise Origin and Biblical Significanc

  • Judas

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  • will

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  • Zeus

    Etymology Derived from the Proto Indo European root Dyeus meaning sky father or sh

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  • target

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