Hebrew Names

Celebratory choice.

Also spelled Bethia and Bithiah, this Old Testament name could wear well today. Bethea might make an original way to honor an ancestral Elizabeth or get to the nickname Beth.

Mentioned in the Old Testament as both a place-name and a grandson of Ephraim, this would make a fairly obscure biblical choice.

Old Testament name of the daughter-in-law of Naomi, now eclipsed by the originally misspelled Oprah.

Identified with a region famous for its gold, more commonly spelled Ophira.

Short form used in Israel; the v makes it more vivid and unusual.

Begs for the guttural pronunciation that's a problem in this culture.

Rarely, if ever, heard in this country, and unlikely to appeal to many Americans; sounds slightly like a product you might put in your coffee.

Virtually unknown in this country, has an interesting, rhythmic feel.

The relationship to "ill" makes this and similar names less pleasing than the versions that start with A or E.

Whether you're looking for an unexpected nickname for the imposing Abraham or a fresh spin on the Biblical classic, this highly unusual variation might appeal to namers with a sense of adventure.

Though pleasant enough, Samala is sure to require lots of explanation.

Gedaliah is a somewhat obscure biblical figure who ruled Judea under the Babylonians. In the past it has mainly been used by Jewish parents, but now it has some potential as an unusual name with that stylish Old Testament sound.

If there are too many Jareds in your neighborhood, you might want to consider this Hebrew alternative.

Refers to the hilly region of Galilee, an easily assimilated Israeli name.