Discover 187 Jewish Boy Names with Powerful Meanings

Choosing the right name for a child is a meaningful journey, especially with the rich tradition of Jewish boy names. From timeless biblical figures to modern names with deep-rooted significance, Jewish names offer a wealth of options that connect faith, culture, and family heritage.

Whether you’re looking for something traditional, contemporary, or unique, these names carry powerful meanings that honor Jewish identity and values. Let’s explore the different types of Jewish boy names and the beautiful stories and qualities each can bring to a child’s life.

Biblical Jewish Boy Names

Biblical names are deeply rooted in Jewish history and are often inspired by key figures in the Torah and other biblical texts. These names carry strong spiritual and cultural significance, connecting modern-day children to the foundational stories and values of the Jewish faith. Many parents choose biblical names to honor figures known for their faith, resilience, and leadership.

1. David – Meaning “beloved,” David is a central figure as the second king of Israel.
2. Jacob – Meaning “supplanter,” Jacob is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
3. Isaac – Meaning “laughter,” Isaac is the son of Abraham, known for his joyful birth.
4. Samuel – Meaning “heard by God,” Samuel was a prophet who anointed the first kings of Israel.
5. Moses – Meaning “drawn out of water,” Moses is a key figure who led the Israelites out of Egypt.
6. Solomon – Meaning “peaceful,” Solomon was a wise king and the builder of the First Temple.
7. Joseph – Meaning “God will add,” Joseph was known for his coat of many colors and rise to power in Egypt.
8. Aaron – Meaning “mountain of strength,” Aaron was Moses’ brother and the first high priest.
9. Benjamin – Meaning “son of the right hand,” Benjamin was the youngest of Jacob’s sons.
10. Elijah – Meaning “my God is Yahweh,” Elijah was a prophet known for his miracles.
11. Daniel – Meaning “God is my judge,” Daniel is known for his loyalty to God in the lion’s den.
12. Nathan – Meaning “gift from God,” Nathan was a prophet who served King David.
13. Noah – Meaning “rest” or “comfort,” Noah is famous for building the ark during the flood.
14. Gideon – Meaning “hewer” or “mighty warrior,” Gideon led Israel to victory over the Midianites.
15. Abraham – Meaning “father of multitudes,” Abraham is the patriarch of the Jewish people.
16. Isaiah – Meaning “Yahweh is salvation,” Isaiah was a major prophet known for his prophecies of hope.
17. Joshua – Meaning “Yahweh is salvation,” Joshua succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel.
18. Caleb – Meaning “faithful, devoted,” Caleb was one of the spies sent to scout the land of Canaan.
19. Ezekiel – Meaning “God strengthens,” Ezekiel was a prophet known for his vivid visions.
20. Micah – Meaning “who is like God,” Micah was a prophet who warned Israel of its transgressions.
21. Joel – Meaning “Yahweh is God,” Joel was a prophet known for his prophecy about the Day of the Lord.
22. Zachariah – Meaning “Yahweh remembers,” Zechariah was a prophet during the time of rebuilding the temple.
23. Jeremiah – Meaning “Yahweh exalts,” Jeremiah was a prophet known for his messages of warning.
24. Saul – Meaning “asked for,” Saul was the first king of Israel.
25. Amos – Meaning “burden,” Amos was a prophet who spoke against social injustices.
26. Obadiah – Meaning “servant of Yahweh,” Obadiah was a prophet with a short book in the Bible.
27. Job – Meaning “persecuted,” Job is known for his patience and faith amid suffering.
28. Reuben – Meaning “behold, a son,” Reuben was Jacob’s firstborn son.
29. Levi – Meaning “joined” or “attached,” Levi is the ancestor of the Levites, the priestly tribe.
30. Simeon – Meaning “one who hears,” Simeon was another son of Jacob.
31. Judah – Meaning “praised,” Judah is the ancestor of King David and the tribe of Judah.
32. Jesse – Meaning “gift,” Jesse was the father of King David.
33. Ishmael – Meaning “God hears,” Ishmael was Abraham’s son with Hagar.
34. Samson – Meaning “sun” or “bright,” Samson was a judge known for his strength.
35. Enoch – Meaning “dedicated,” Enoch was known for his close walk with God.
36. Haggai – Meaning “festive,” Haggai was a prophet who encouraged the rebuilding of the temple.
37. Hosea – Meaning “salvation,” Hosea was a prophet who used his marriage as a metaphor for God’s relationship with Israel.
38. Asa – Meaning “healer” or “physician,” Asa was a king of Judah noted for his reforms.

Modern Jewish Boy Names

Modern Jewish names offer a blend of tradition and contemporary appeal, with names that reflect timeless values while fitting seamlessly into the present day. These names have become popular choices in recent years, chosen for their accessibility, unique sounds, and meanings that resonate with today’s generation. Modern Jewish names often embody strength, kindness, and a sense of renewal.

1. Ari – Meaning “lion,” this name has gained popularity as a modern, strong choice.
2. Ethan – Meaning “strong, firm,” it’s a name that combines modern style with ancient roots.
3. Ezra – Meaning “help,” Ezra is a classic name that’s seen a resurgence in popularity.
4. Adam – Meaning “man, earth,” a simple, powerful name.
5. Eli – Meaning “my God,” often used as a modern, short and sweet name.
6. Jonah – Meaning “dove,” a name with a peaceful connotation.
7. Asher – Meaning “happy, blessed,” a name that exudes positivity.
8. Dov – Meaning “bear,” a name that has grown in popularity for its uniqueness.
9. Oren – Meaning “pine tree,” a nature-inspired name with modern appeal.
10. Barak – Meaning “lightning,” a strong name with a modern touch.
11. Adriel – Meaning “flock of God,” a unique yet stylish name.
12. Avi – Meaning “my father,” often used as a standalone, modern name.
13. Lior – Meaning “my light,” a fresh name symbolizing hope and guidance.
14. Ziv – Meaning “light, brightness,” short, strong, and uncommon.
15. Shai – Meaning “gift,” a name with both simplicity and charm.
16. Elan – Meaning “tree,” a modern, nature-inspired name.
17. Maor – Meaning “light,” carrying the essence of clarity and illumination.
18. Gavriel – Meaning “God is my strength,” a powerful modern take on Gabriel.
19. Matan – Meaning “gift,” a name chosen for its generosity of spirit.
20. Noam – Meaning “pleasantness,” conveying kindness and calm.
21. Ilan – Meaning “tree,” a modern name symbolizing strength and growth.
22. Ori – Meaning “my light,” a name that exudes warmth.
23. Yonatan – Meaning “God has given,” a fresh, modern form of Jonathan.
24. Amir – Meaning “treetop” or “prince,” a nature-inspired name with royal overtones.
25. Rafi – Meaning “God has healed,” often used as a modern, standalone name.
26. Ronen – Meaning “song,” a name that conveys joy and harmony.
27. Nadav – Meaning “generous,” a name chosen for its meaning of kindness.
28. Elie – Meaning “my God,” often a modern, short form of Elijah.
29. Tzvi – Meaning “deer,” a name symbolizing grace and swiftness.
30. Eitan – Meaning “firm, strong,” a modern name with resilience.
31. Lavi – Meaning “lion,” a strong name symbolizing bravery.
32. Alon – Meaning “oak tree,” symbolizing strength and endurance.
33. Yael – Meaning “mountain goat,” symbolizing agility and resilience.
34. Tzion – Meaning “Zion,” representing a spiritual homeland.
35. Yair – Meaning “he will enlighten,” conveying wisdom.
36. Raanan – Meaning “fresh, new,” symbolizing renewal and vibrancy.
37. Keshet – Meaning “rainbow,” symbolizing hope and diversity.

Hebrew-Origin Names

Hebrew-origin names are distinct for their linguistic and cultural ties to the Hebrew language, with meanings that reflect core values in Judaism. These names often convey messages of faith, divine guidance, and family, embodying the strength and resilience central to Jewish identity. Hebrew-origin names are chosen not only for their sound but also for the deep meanings they carry.

1. Yitzhak – Hebrew for “laughter,” a name symbolizing joy.
2. Yosef – Meaning “God will add,” indicating abundance.
3. Avraham – Meaning “father of multitudes,” a name symbolizing leadership.
4. Moshe – Derived from “drawn out,” symbolizing deliverance.
5. Baruch – Meaning “blessed,” symbolizing divine favor.
6. Yaakov – Meaning “supplanter,” symbolizing resilience.
7. Shlomo – Meaning “peaceful,” indicating harmony.
8. Yeshua – Meaning “God saves,” a name rooted in salvation.
9. Eliyahu – Meaning “my God is Yahweh,” symbolizing faithfulness.
10. Ariel – Meaning “lion of God,” symbolizing strength.
11. Zev – Meaning “wolf,” representing courage.
12. Reuven – Meaning “behold, a son,” indicating family pride.
13. Amichai – Meaning “my people live,” a name of unity.
14. Chaim – Meaning “life,” symbolizing vitality.
15. Tuvya – Meaning “God’s goodness,” symbolizing grace.
16. Shalom – Meaning “peace,” reflecting tranquility.
17. Yonah – Meaning “dove,” symbolizing peace.
18. Nechemiah – Meaning “God has comforted,” reflecting solace.
19. Elazar – Meaning “God has helped,” reflecting divine support.
20. Hillel – Meaning “to praise,” a name symbolizing joy and celebration.
21. Menachem – Meaning “comforter,” often chosen for its compassionate meaning.
22. Shneur – Derived from “two lights,” symbolizing wisdom and insight.
23. Yishai – Meaning “gift,” symbolizing blessings and generosity.
24. Tzaddok – Meaning “righteous,” symbolizing integrity and faith.
25. Yigal – Meaning “He will redeem,” a name with hopeful connotations.
26. Avner – Meaning “father of light,” symbolizing guidance.
27. Pinchas – Meaning “dark-skinned” or “oracle,” linked to biblical heritage.
28. Yehuda – Meaning “praised,” associated with the Tribe of Judah.
29. Oz – Meaning “strength,” a name denoting resilience and courage.
30. Ovadiah – Meaning “servant of God,” symbolizing devotion.
31. Zechariah – Meaning “God remembers,” symbolizing memory and continuity.
32. Shimon – Meaning “God has heard,” conveying divine response.
33. Ehud – Meaning “united, strong,” a name with connections to leadership.
34. Chizkiyahu – Meaning “God strengthens,” a name of resilience.
35. Akiva – Meaning “protective,” a name associated with devotion and learning.
36. Elchanan – Meaning “God is gracious,” symbolizing compassion.
37. Immanuel – Meaning “God is with us,” denoting divine presence.

Traditional Names with Cultural Significance

Traditional names with cultural significance are chosen to honor heritage and family lineage, often passed down through generations. These names are connected to Yiddish culture, Ashkenazi or Sephardic customs, or other significant aspects of Jewish heritage. Traditional names are a way for families to celebrate their roots and maintain a connection to their ancestors and cultural identity.

1. Maimon – An ancient name meaning “teacher,” often linked with wisdom and leadership.
2. Haim – Meaning “life,” a name symbolizing vitality and joy.
3. Shmuel – Meaning “God has heard,” often chosen for its deep connection to faith.
4. Eliezer – Meaning “God is my help,” symbolizing divine assistance.
5. Shabtai – Derived from “Shabbat,” meaning “born on the Sabbath,” symbolizing rest and peace.
6. Yehoshua – Meaning “God is salvation,” closely related to strength in faith.
7. Israel – Meaning “wrestles with God,” reflecting spiritual resilience.
8. Herschel – Derived from “deer,” symbolizing grace and swiftness.
9. Zalman – Yiddish form of Solomon, meaning “peaceful,” symbolizing tranquility.
10. Leib – Meaning “heart” or “lion,” symbolizing courage and kindness.
11. Mayer – Meaning “light” or “bringer of light,” symbolizing guidance.
12. Mendel – A traditional Yiddish name meaning “comforter,” symbolizing compassion.
13. Ephraim – Meaning “fruitful,” symbolizing abundance.
14. Meir – Meaning “one who shines,” symbolizing inspiration.
15. Yitzchak – Hebrew form of Isaac, meaning “laughter,” symbolizing joy.
16. Mosheh – Another form of Moses, meaning “drawn out,” symbolizing leadership.
17. Nachman – Meaning “comforter,” symbolizing empathy and care.
18. Yisroel – Traditional form of Israel, meaning “wrestles with God.”
19. Azriel – Meaning “God is my help,” symbolizing protection.
20. Menashe – Meaning “causing to forget,” symbolizing forgiveness.
21. Zelig – Yiddish for “blessed,” often chosen for its meaning of favor.
22. Yirmiyahu – Meaning “Yahweh will exalt,” a name with strong spiritual roots.
23. Mordechai – Derived from the biblical figure, meaning “warrior” or “servant of Marduk.”
24. Hersh – Meaning “deer,” symbolizing grace, often used in Yiddish contexts.
25. Tzaddik – Meaning “righteous,” often chosen to represent integrity and virtue.
26. Shlomo Zalman – A compound of Solomon and Zalman, meaning “peaceful” and “strong.”
27. Yissachar – Meaning “reward,” symbolizing gratitude.
28. Yaakov Yitzchak – Combination of Jacob and Isaac, representing “supplanter” and “laughter.”
29. Nosson – Meaning “given,” symbolizing blessing and generosity.
30. Leibish – A variation of Leib, meaning “lion,” symbolizing strength.
31. Sender – Meaning “defender,” symbolizing courage and protection.
32. Velvel – A Yiddish name meaning “wolf,” symbolizing loyalty and strength.
33. Shloimy – A diminutive form of Shlomo, meaning “peaceful.”
34. Berl – Derived from “bear,” symbolizing strength and resilience.
35. Gedaliah – Meaning “God is great,” a name with reverent roots.
36. Tanchum – Meaning “comforter,” a name symbolizing compassion.
37. Dovid – Yiddish form of David, meaning “beloved.”

Unique and Rare Jewish Boy Names

For parents seeking something distinctive, unique and rare Jewish boy names offer special meanings and lesser-known options. These names stand out for their originality and often represent concepts of purity, strength, or divine presence. Rare Jewish names allow parents to choose a meaningful, uncommon name that still honors Jewish culture and spirituality.

1. Avidan – Meaning “God is just,” symbolizing fairness and righteousness.
2. Eliram – Meaning “God is exalted,” conveying reverence.
3. Yishmael – Meaning “God hears,” representing divine attentiveness.
4. Roniel – Meaning “my joy is God,” symbolizing happiness and faith.
5. Zohar – Meaning “radiance, brilliance,” often chosen for its illuminating quality.
6. Tamir – Meaning “tall” or “erect,” symbolizing pride and dignity.
7. Kedem – Meaning “ancient” or “east,” symbolizing origin and wisdom.
8. Meshulam – Meaning “repaid,” symbolizing justice and reciprocity.
9. Yarden – Meaning “descend,” connected to the Jordan River.
10. Amitai – Meaning “truth,” a name representing integrity.
11. Lev – Meaning “heart,” symbolizing kindness and love.
12. Nir – Meaning “plowed field,” symbolizing growth and cultivation.
13. Arel – Meaning “lion of God,” symbolizing courage and divine strength.
14. Paz – Meaning “gold,” representing value and purity.
15. Boaz – Meaning “swiftness,” known from the story of Ruth.
16. Ram – Meaning “exalted,” symbolizing high status and honor.
17. Kfir – Meaning “lion cub,” symbolizing potential and courage.
18. Eden – Meaning “delight,” symbolizing joy and beauty.
19. Pazit – Meaning “pure gold,” symbolizing rarity and value.
20. Sagi – Meaning “great,” symbolizing ambition.
21. Gal – Meaning “wave,” symbolizing fluidity and adaptability.
22. Tzuriel – Meaning “my rock is God,” symbolizing strength.
23. Omri – Meaning “my sheaf,” symbolizing harvest and growth.
24. Meital – Meaning “dew drop,” symbolizing freshness and renewal.
25. Zakkai – Meaning “pure,” symbolizing innocence and virtue.
26. Ofir – Meaning “gold,” representing wealth and rarity.
27. Uriel – Meaning “God is my light,” symbolizing guidance.
28. Tzurel – A modern variation of “Tzuriel,” meaning “my rock is God.”
29. Avishai – Meaning “gift of my father,” symbolizing family heritage.
30. Sela – Meaning “rock,” representing stability and strength.
31. Oriya – Meaning “light of God,” symbolizing illumination.
32. Shachar – Meaning “dawn,” symbolizing new beginnings.
33. Nitai – Meaning “given by God,” representing blessing.
34. Zemer – Meaning “song,” symbolizing joy and harmony.
35. Tal – Meaning “dew,” representing renewal and freshness.
36. Naor – Meaning “enlightened,” symbolizing knowledge.
37. Elon – Meaning “oak tree,” symbolizing strength and endurance.
38. Yochanan – Meaning “God is gracious,” symbolizing grace and compassion.