If you are trying to look for a timeless and meaningful name for your baby, why not consider a Classic Biblical Name? I mean, these names don’t only hold historical importance, they also strike the ear quite well, too!
Many consider the Bible as a rich source of names with powerful meanings and historical significance. Therefore, considering them is great – especially if you have religious parents, too!
We did due diligence and compiled a list of 60 Classic Biblical Baby Names. 30 of which are for boys and 30 are for girls. Don’t worry, they’re still relevant and popular in modern society so they won’t sound funny!
60 Classic Biblical Baby Names
Don’t sweat! We collected these biblical baby names for you do not find trouble running through them!
Ladies first, let’s shuffle through them!
30 Classic Biblical Baby Girl Names
Abigail – [AB-i-gayl]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “My Father’s Joy”
- Bible Mentions: 1 Samuel 25
Abigail was known for her beauty, intelligence, and loyalty. In the scriptures, she was married to King David after her first husband died. From then on, she became a respected figure in the whole story. The name’s quite common nowadays. but who knew it had a deeper meaning?
Adah – [Ay-Duh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Adornment“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 4:19-24
One of Lamech’s wives, Adah was the mother of Jabal and Jubal. She was known for her beauty and her role in early human civilization. It was said that Lamech married her for pleasure because of how beautiful and alluring she was.
Atarah – [A-Ta-Rah]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Crown“
- Bible Mentions: 1 Chronicles 2:26-36
Last but most definitely not least of the women biblical names is Atarah. It has this rich history, tradition, and significance, and actually defines the crown in the bible. Atarah is one of Jerahmeel, Judah’s descendants. It’s artistic, unique, and screams sophistication.
Bethany – [Beh-Thuh-Nee]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “House of Figs“
- Bible Mentions: John 11:18; Acts 1:12
Bethany is one of those modern-world names that have been transfigured to a lot of different versions. Overall, the name has a sense of joy, happiness, and warmth with roots deeply embedded in the Bible. Bethany is a common name in the West in the modern era!
Esther – [ES-ter]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Star”
- Bible Mentions: The Book of Esther
Esther was a brave and resourceful woman. She was the one who salvaged Jewish people from the Persian Empire’s genocide.Thus, her story is celebrated during the Jewish holiday, which is also known as Purim. Nevertheless, the name is timeless – like a piece of gold!
Hannah – [HAN-Uh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Grace“
- Bible Mentions: 1 Samuel 1-2
The name Hannah, like Abigail, is also common in modern times. In the Bible, though, Hannah is known as a devoted and prayerful woman who prayed for a child and eventually gave birth to Samuel, who became a prophet and judge in Israel.
Leah – [Lee-Uh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Weary“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 29-30
Jacob’s first wife, Leah’s faithfulness as both a wife and a mother to their six children is recognized. Leah was just not as loved as her sister Rachel but despite that, she still chose unconditional love for her family.
Mary – [Mare-Ee]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Bitter” or “Beloved“
- Bible Mentions: Mark 6:3; Matthew 13:55
In case you didn’t know, Mary is known to be one of the most well-known and gentlewomen in the Bible. For one, she’s known as the mother of Jesus Christ and played a crucial role in his life and ministry. Other Maries included Mary Magdalene and Mary of Cleofas.
Miriam – [MEER-Ee-Um]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Bitter“
- Pronunciation: MEER-ee-um
- Bible Mentions: Exodus 2-15
Compared to other ladies’ names here, Miriam’s one of the less-chosen ones in today’s time. In the Bible, Miriam was Moses and Aaron’s older sister. She played a crucial role in the exodus or the exit of the Israelites from Egypt as she was a prophetess and considered a leader of the Israelites.
Rachel – [Ray-Chul]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Ewe“
- Bible Mention: Genesis 29-35
Rachel was Jacob’s second wife and is also the mother of Benjamin and Joseph. She was known for her beauty and her deep love for Jacob. It’s safe to say that Rachel is one of the mothers of the 12 tribes, since both her children headed two out of those 12.
Naomi – [Nay-OH-Mee]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Pleasantness“
- Bible Mentions: The Book of Ruth
I don’t know, but Naomi sounds and feels classical and holy whenever it’s mentioned. As it turns out, it’s a common name in the biblical sphere! Naomi was Ruth’s Israelite mother-in-law who played a significant role in her life after her son (Ruth’s husband) passed. Being a mother, she experienced great loss and grief; she found comfort and hope in the end.
Phoebe – [FEE-Bee]
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: “Bright” or “Pure“
- Bible Mentions: Romans 16:1-2
She was a deaconess in the early Christian church. Phoebe was actually praised by Paul for her service and hospitality. And yes, Phoebe is the one and only woman or lady deacon mentioned and recognized in the Bible!
Ruth – [ROOTH]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Friend“
- Bible Mentions: The Book of Ruth
Ruth, apparently was a common name before as it is today! In the scriptures, she was a Moabite woman who showed overflowing loyalty and kindness to Naomi, who is her mother-in-law. She also is the recognized great-grandmother of the great and respected and famous King David.
Sarah – [Sair-Uh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Princess“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 11-23
Abraham’s wife and the mother of Isaac, Sarah was crucially known and recognized for her immovable faith in the Lord. Beyond that, Sarah was known for her beauty and diligence, even when it seemed impossible to have a child. It’s a great name for a loyal and faithful follower.
Vashti – [Vash-Tee]
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: “Beautiful“
- Bible Mentions: The Book of Esther
Vashti was celebrated as the esteemed Queen of Persia, remembered for her bold act of defiance against her husband’s demand to appear before him and his guests. Her unwavering courage and bravery serve as a powerful reminder of the significance of standing up for one’s own beliefs and principles.
Tabitha – [TaB-Ih-Thuh]
- Origin: Aramaic
- Meaning: “Gazelle“
- Bible Mentions: Acts 9:36-43
Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, was a generous and kind woman who was raised from the dead by Peter in the early Christian church. Being an honorable disciple of Jesus, the name is known for doing good deeds, as well as accomplishing positive humanity actions.
Deborah – [Deb-Uh-Ruh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Bee“
- Bible Mentions: Judges 4-5
In the scriptures, Deborah was a prophetess and a judge in Israel. Furthermore, it was known that she helped lead the Israelites to victory over their enemies. She was also a strong and wise leader who inspired others to follow her. Her name even translates to fiery woman, even pyromancer!
Dinah – [Dye-Nuh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Judged“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 30-34
Dinah was Jacob and Leah’s lass, and is also the famous sister of Joseph. She was charming, beautiful, and is actually one of the more underused names and titles in the Old Testament. Her name has this Hebrew meaning of God Will Judge.
Eve – [Eev]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Life“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 2-3
I don’t know about you, but when I hear the name Eve, I remember how the world began! Eve was the first woman in the Bible and the mother of all humanity. It’s a name that signifies the importance of free will, temptation, and redemption.
Hagar – [Hay-Gar]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Flight“
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 16-21
Hagar is one of those non-feminine names if you look at it today, but back then, it was an Egyptian, Hebrew name. In the scriptures, Hagar was a slave who gave birth to Ishmael, the son of Abraham. The name gives significance and meaning to the struggles of women, minorities, and immigrants in the ancient world.
Michal – [Mee-Kal]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Who is Like God?”
- Bible Mentions: 1 Samuel 18-19; 2 Samuel 6:16-23
She was the daughter of King Saul – the wife to David. She was known for her beauty, her intelligence, and her loyalty to David, even when it meant defying her father. Michal is a great name but today’s variation of it often comes down to Michelle or Michaela.
Jael – [Jay-Uhl]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Mountain Goat“
- Bible Mentions: Judges 4-5
Jael was a woman of fierce determination and unwavering bravery, whose story is told in the book of Judges in the Bible. She lived during a time of conflict and turmoil, when the Israelites were under the oppressive rule of the Canaanites.
Martha – [MAR-Thuh]
- Origin: Aramaic
- Meaning: “Lady”
- Bible Mentions: Luke 10:38-42; John 11-12
Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus and a friend of Jesus Christ. She was known for her hospitality, her practicality, and her faith. The name is actually fairly popular in today’s time – it’s mostly used as substitutes for Mary, Maria, and those of the like.
Elizabeth – [Uh-Liz-Uh-Beth]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God is My Oath“
- Bible Mentions: Luke 1-2
Elizabeth has been one of the more common names in today’s world, like many others in the list. Its bible context also proves that it’s a great and rich name, as Mary – the mother of the mother of Jesus – was her cousin. She was known for her faith, her hospitality, and her role in preparing the way for the Messiah.
Judith – [Joo-Dith]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Jewish Woman“
- Bible Mentions: The Book of Judith
Judith was a remarkable woman whose story is recounted in the book of Judith in the Bible. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and cunning, but it was her courage and faith that truly set her apart. She is known as a hero, especially in the eyes of her people – celebrating her story for centuries!
Lydia – [Lid-Ee-Uh]
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: “From Lydia“
- Bible Mentions: Acts 16:14-15, 40
Lydia is a fascinating figure from the Bible, whose story is one of perseverance, generosity, and faith. The name itself is common in today’s time and it’s actually a favorite in our older generations. In the scriptures, Lydia was a businesswoman and a follower of God. The name literally translates as woman from Lydia in Greek.
Naamah – [Nay-Mah]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Lovely“
- Bible Mentions:1 Kings 14:21; 1 Kings 14:31
The name sounds classical and it feels like it was taken somewhere from the Old Testament. It is a name that has a deep sense of beauty with touches and hints of mystery and originality. Jewish traditions say that Naamah was one of the four women who had a descent into the Garden of Eden after the fall of the first people.
Seraphina – [Sey-R-Ah-Fiy-Naa]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Burning Ones“
- Bible Mentions: Isaiah 6
Even in today’s time, the name Seraphina is a unique and beautiful name. Its biblical roots also signify something of beauty, elegance, and grace – not to mention spiritual devotion. Although the name Seraphina is not found in the Bible, it is derived from the “seraphim,” which is Hebrew referring to a type of celestial being mentioned in the Book of Isaiah.
Tamar – [Tay-Mur]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Palm tree”
- Bible Mentions: Genesis 38
Tamar’s name is particularly unusual and abstract in today’s world, as it is rarely given to many ladies. However, her character in the scriptures feature a daring, courageous, and resourceful lady who excelled in the face of adversity. She was a part of Jesus Christ’s genealogy. According to Hebrew beliefs, the name also represents eternal life, peace, and triumph.
Zipporah – [Zih-Puh-Ruh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Bird“
- Bible Mentions: Exodus 2-4
Zipporah was the wife of Moses and the mother of his children. She played a role in saving Moses’ life and supporting his mission. Samaritan scriptures refer to Zipporah as Kaashet, translating to beautiful woman. It’s also a great and unique name that you can consider using today.
30 Classic Biblical Baby Boy Names
Now that we’re done with biblical women names, let us now go ahead and discuss some male or men biblical names!
David – [Day-Vid]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Beloved“
- Biblical mentions: 1 Samuel 16-31, 2 Samuel 1-24
Personally, David has been the name that is the most common out of all biblical titles out there. This is because of how recognizable it is and how it symbolizes leadership and courage. David was the youngest son of Jesse and the second king of Israel. He was known for his bravery, his music, and his relationship with God.
Adam – [Ad-Uhm]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Man“
- Bible mentions: Genesis 1-5
If you haven’t heard of the name Adam yet, then you haven’t been living in this world for too long! Kidding aside, he was the first creation, also considered the ancestor of all humanity. His story centers on the relationship between God and humans, as well as the role of sin and redemption.
Aaron – [Air-Uhn]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Mountain of Strength“
- Bible mentions: Exodus 4-40
Aaron was the older brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He was known for his wisdom, his courage, and his role in the worship of God. The name actually carries a lot of significance in the past – but from what it means alone (Mountain of Strength), it reflects a ton of messages!
Abel – [Ay-Buhl]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Breath” or “Vapor“
- Bible mentions: Genesis 4
Abel was the younger son of Adam and Eve and the first person to be murdered in biblical history. The story of Abel highlights the importance of sacrifice, faith, and justice in this world. Overall, the name Abel is simple, minimalistic, and easy!
Benjamin – [Ben-Juh-Min]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Son of the Right Hand“
- Bible mentions: Genesis 35-49
Benjamin is a name that’s been enjoyed by people not only for years – but for centuries. It also has a strong biblical significance as it is a name that evokes a sense of familiarity and warmth, reminding us of a time long gone when our ancestors looked to the heavens for guidance and protection.
Daniel – [Dan-Yuhl]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God is My Judge”
- Biblical mentions: Ezekiel 14:14; 14:20: 28:3; The Book of Daniel
Daniel is one of those names that are used in a wide sense. It has this familiarity for both men and women, but in context, it’s something that roots from men. Daniel was a young Jewish captive who rose to prominence in the court of Babylon and Persia.The name is powerful, timeless, and something that portrays courage and faith.
Boaz – [Bo-Ahz]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Strength“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Ruth
Boaz is a name that is uncommon – in fact, rare in today’s time. However, I was always fascinated by how it was used in today’s culture. In biblical anecdotes, Boaz was a wealthy landowner and a relative of Naomi and Ruth. He showed great kindness, generosity, and faithfulness in his dealings with them.
Elijah – [Ih-Ly-Jah]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “My God is Yahweh“
- Biblical mentions: 1 Kings 17-19, 2 Kings 1-2
The name Elijah is a name that exudes strength, passion, and faith. It remained popular over the centuries and continues to be a popular choice for boys even today – I even consider naming mine Elijah! In the stories, he was a prophet in Israel who challenged the false worship of Baal and called the people back to the true God. He was also a miracle worker and a mentor to Elisha.
Elisha – [Ih-Ly-Shuh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God is Salvation“
- Biblical mentions: 1 Kings 19-21, 2 Kings 2-13
Linking the story to the name before it, the story of Elisha starts when Elijah’s ended. He was, too, a prophet of God who also performed numerous miracles during his time. The name itself is timeless as it exudes authority and beauty all in one picture.
Gabriel – [Gay-Bree-El]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God is My Strength“
- Biblical mentions: Daniel 8-9; Luke 1
Whenever the name is read, said, and announced – I immediately think of something divine. This is due to the fact that Gabriel is an archangel who appears in the Bible as a messenger of God. He announced the births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. More to that, Gabriel played a crucial role in the apocalyptic visions of Daniel.
Isaac – [Eye-Zuhk]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Laughter“
- Biblical mentions: Genesis 17-35
Isaac, son of Abraham and Sarah, is one of the earliest characters in the Bible. He fathered Jacob and Esau and was a central figure in the covenant between God and Abraham, representing faith and obedience. The name Isaac symbolizes strength, resilience, and faithfulness.
Caleb – [Kay-Lub]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Dog” or “Bold“
- Biblical mentions: Numbers 13-14; Joshua 14
I have a friend who is Caleb and I know someone who knows a Caleb – it’s a pretty common name in today’s time. It is a name that is both timeless and powerful, evoking images of courage, determination, and faith. It’s a name that has been passed down through the ages and continues to be a popular choice for boys today.
Emmanuel – [Ih-Man-Yoo-El]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God With Us“
- Biblical mentions: Matthew 1:23; Isaiah
Emmanuel is one of the more common names in the Bible as it appears four times – three of which in Isaiah, one in Matthew. The name, in itself, is a great name as it’s mild and is easy to remember. It also signals and symbolizes openness to the Kingdom of God.
Isaiah – [Eye-Zay-Uh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Salvation of Yahweh“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Isaiah
A prophet in Israel who spoke about the coming judgment, restoration, and salvation of God’s people, Isaiah is one of the more popular characters in the Bible – particularly in stories we were told. The name is common even in today’s time, especially by religious people and families.
Jacob – [Jay-Khub]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Supplanter” or “Heel“
- Biblical mentions: Genesis 25-50
Jacob was the son of Isaac and Rebekah. He was the character who fathered twelve sons, who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name is a rather commonly unique name for some cultures, but is actually a symbolic name for some.
James – [Jaymz]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Supplanter” or “Heel“
- Biblical mentions: Matthew 4:21-22, Mark 3:13-19, Luke 6:12-16, Acts 1:13, 12:1-2, 15:13-21
James was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the brother of John.The name with it a rich history and a wealth of fascinating facts and stories. Steeped in history, tradition, and a rich cultural legacy. It represents strength, leadership, and unwavering faith, and has been a popular choice for parents for centuries.
Jeremiah – [Juh-Ry-Mee-Yuh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Yahweh Will Exalt“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah was a prophet in Israel who warned the people of their impending judgment and called them to repentance and faithfulness. The name, in itself, has this powerful, recognized, and prophetic connotation. It’s a great name that has many variations in today’s time.
Jonah – [Joh-Nuh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Dove“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Jonah
Jonah was a prophet in Israel who was sent by God to preach to the people of Nineveh. The name, more often than not, is associated with faith, adventure, and decision-making. Overall, the sense of the name means courage and fearlessness.
Jesus – [Jee-Zuhs]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Yahweh Saves“
- Biblical mentions: All over the bible
I mean, Jesus has been named to children whose parents are devotees. In case you aren’t familiar, Jesus Christ is the central figure of the Bible and the focus of the Christian faith. He was and forever will be the Son of God. The name is powerful and prophetic – rumors even spread about children with names having talents!
Job – [Johb]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Persecuted“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Job
In character, Job was a righteous man who suffered great loss and affliction. In spite of all these, he remained faithful to God. The name has biblical roots and is not common in today’s time. Nevertheless, his story raises questions about the problem of evil and how it was put in place against God.
Joel – [Joh-Uhl]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Yahweh is God“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Joel
Joel was a prophet in Israel who spoke about the coming day of the Lord, the outpouring of the Spirit, and the restoration of Israel. Overall, the name Joel from the Bible is a name that carries with it a sense of hope, restoration, and the promise of a brighter future.
John – [Jahn]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God is Gracious“
- Pronunciation: JAHN
- Biblical mentions: All over the Bible
One of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of John, the three letters of John, and the Book of Revelation, John was a pretty popular name in the scriptures – even in today’s time! In the stories, though, he was known for his love, his humility, and his vision of the glory of God. It is associated with themes of love, devotion, and faith, and has been borne by many notable figures throughout history.
Joseph – [Joh-Sehf]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “May He Add“
- Biblical mentions: Genesis 30-50
Joseph was the son of Jacob and Rachel and the favorite of his twelve brothers. Known for his integrity, his wisdom, and his forgiveness, he really is a model in today’s age. Other than him, there were a lot of Josephs in the scriptures –like Joseph the Carpenter. The name is a classic and is often given to boys who come from a string of religious families.
Joshua – [Jah-Shoo-Uh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Yahweh is Salvation“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Joshua
The name is common worldwide. Whether in Asian countries or those where the name is rooted from, you’ll find boys with that name 9 times out of 10. In the scriptures, Joshua was the successor of Moses and the leader of Israel in the conquest of the Promised Land.
Judah – [Joo-Duh]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Praise“
- Biblical mentions: Genesis 29-50
Judah has become well-known due to his betrayal, but other than that, no other details about him exist. He was the fourth son of Jacob and Leah and ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ. It is a great name, popular today among both genders despite being traditionally male.
Lazarus – [LAZ-uh-rus]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “God Has Helped“
- Biblical mentions: John 11-12
Lazarus was a friend of Jesus Christ who was raised from the dead after four days in the tomb. The name gained a lot of attention over the years thanks to its prominent role in one of the most famous stories in the Bible. Overall, it is an artistic and classic name that also symbolizes and signifies new life and hope.
Malachi – [Mal-Uh-Kai]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “My Messenger“
- Biblical mentions: The Book of Malachi
He was a prophet in Israel who spoke about the corruption, unfaithfulness, and apathy of the priests, together with the people. It’s an awesome name as it is rare and is used in various parts of the world. Malachi is a rich and historical name.
Matthew – [Math-Yoo]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Gift of Yahweh“
- Biblical mentions: All around the Bible
Matthew is a common name since then – even up until today. In context, he was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew was a tax collector and a witness to the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It’s a plain name today, which is why many parents who name their children Matthew add variations like a second name or change it up a bit.
Moses – [Moh-Ziz]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “Drawn Out“
- Biblical mentions: Exodus 1-Deuteronomy 34
The scriptures know him like the back of its book; he was the leader of Israel in the exodus from Egypt and the recipient of the Ten Commandments and other laws from God. It’s a good name – pretty symbolic and came from Egyptology, which perfectly draws out its rich culture.
Nathan – [Nay-Thuhn]
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “He Gave“
- Pronunciation: NAY-thuhn
- Biblical mentions: 2 Samuel 7-12
Last but most definitely not least is Nathan. In major stories, Nathan was a prophet in Israel who confronted King David about his sin with Bathsheba and gave him a message of judgment and mercy. He was a counselor, a friend, and a supporter of David and his successors. The name is masculine but carries the rich context of history and symbolism – the meaning alone makes it holy!
Which Biblical Baby Names Caught Your Attention?
So, if you are a parent looking to give your children a powerful, long-lasting identity, classic biblical names are an excellent source of inspiration, this list is perfect for you! I don’t know about you, but I feel like there are a lot of good names, making it difficult to choose!
From Adam to Moses, Abigail to Zipporah, these names carry a variety of stories, cultures and values that remain relevant today. Embracing a biblical name for your child is not just a way to honor your faith and heritage; it’s also an expression of the religious beliefs you hold dear.
