30 Unique And Weird Biblical Names For Boys & Girls!

Ever wondered about the origins of some weird biblical names? Read along and find out! 

If you ever find yourself curious about the unique – sometimes weird biblical names, you’re not alone! 

From Zerubbabel to Bathsheba, names that have doctrinal origins all have rich histories and meanings behind them. So, in this article, we will be compiling some of the weirdest, yet most unique biblical names! 

Furthermore, we will also delve deep into what their meanings and origins are! 

This post will center around: 

• Famous American People’s Weird Biblical Names
• Weird Biblical Names For Boys 
• Weird Biblical Names For Girls 
• Plus Their Origins!

American Famous People With Weird Biblical Names

Who said weird names only existed during the Bible’s time? Our generation actually also has a handful of people who find it difficult to pronounce their names! 

1. Hephzibah Menuhin – American pianist and sister of violinist Yehudi Menuhin – they are a family of unique names! 
2. Gilead Sher – American-Israeli lawyer and peace negotiator.
3. Asahd Tuck Khaled – The son of American DJ and record executive DJ Khaled! 
4. Delilah Rene – An American radio personality, host, and songwriter. 
5. Zebulon Pike – American explorer and soldier. Pikes Peak in Colorado was named after him! 
6. Keziah Jones – A famous Nigerian singer-songwriter and guitarist.
7. Adah Isaacs Menken – An American actress, painter, and well-renowned poet.
8. Shadrack Meshack Lockridge – An American pastor and preacher. He’s also commonly known as S.M. Lockridge. 
9. Simeon S. Pennewill – American politician and former Governor of Delaware. S.S. Pennewill is actually 
10. Ichabod Crane – Fictional character in Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Nevertheless, the name’s still peculiar and unique, right? 

30 Weird Biblical Names with Meanings and Origins

In case you’re still pushing interest in finding out other biblical names that are out of the ordinary, here they are! 

To make things simpler for you, we’ve separated and divided them by male and female names! 

15 Weird Biblical Boy Names

Abishag [ab-i-shag]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Father of Wandering
• Bible mentions: 1 Kings 1:1-4

Abishag is a unique name for a child who may come from a family of travelers or have a nomadic spirit. In the bible, she was a beautiful young woman that served as a helper to King David when he was old. Abishag is a pretty weird name, especially since it was a girl character in the Bible, not a boy! 

Adriel [a-dree-el]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Flock of God
• Bible mentions: 1 Samuel 18:19

Adriel is a rather commonly used name for boys in today’s time. He was a nobleman in the scriptures. It can be an interesting name for a child – it’s also a gender-neutral name, which makes it all the more interesting! 

Eliphaz [e-li-faz]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: God is fine gold
• Bible mentions: Job 2:11

The name is a rare one in the West, as the majority of names won’t have the combination of the letters “p”, “h”, and “z.” Nevertheless, it is an astounding name! Even in the Bible, it’s not a very prominent name but its history is actually rich as it includes Job.

Haggai [hag-eye]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Festive
• Bible mentions: Haggai 1:1

Haggai would be a cheerful name for a child. It’s fun, unorthodox (in today’s time), and also holds a rich history and background in the Bible. It may sound peculiar to some, but its weirdness is what’s putting the flavor on why it’s a good name. 

Mahershalalhashbaz [ma-her-shal-al-hash-baz]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Swift is the spoil, speedy is the prey
• Bible mentions: Isaiah 8:1-3

A lengthy name, it would be rare to use this name in modern times as there are others that can be used. Ideally, it can appeal to parents who appreciate the rich and prophetic nature of the name. 

Nebuchadnezzar [nee-buh-kuhd-nez-uhr]

• Origin: Babylonian
• Meaning: Nabu, protect my offspring
• Bible mentions: Daniel 4:28-37 

I don’t know about you, but ever since I was able to understand the story of the Bible – Nebuchadnezzar was one of the first-few names that latched onto me. It can interest parents that have a foot of interest in ancient history. The name is unique, but I’ve encountered people with this name, too!

Japheth [jay-feth]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Expansion
• Bible mentions: Genesis 5:32

Japheth is a rather common name in today’s time. In fact, it’s considered an excellent name for a child in families valuing learning, and growth, and celebrating the rich history of the name’s roots. In the Bible, he is one of Noah’s three sons. 

Joash [joh-ash]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Yahweh has given
• Bible mentions: 2 Kings 11:2

Jehoash – or Joash, for short, is known as the Bible’s youngest King. He became one when he was just seven years old and reigned for more than forty years. The name is excellently sophisticated and is also a fitting name for a male child. 

Nimrod [nim-rod]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Rebel
• Bible mentions: Genesis 10:8-9

The name Nimrod strikes me as a classical name that’s been used by people decades back. In the Bible, he is known to be the first mighty man on earth, which fits boys as empowering; it can also be a name for someone who challenges stereotypes and the status quo –  one who is unafraid to stand up for their beliefs.

Mephibosheth [me-fi-bo-sheth]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Dispeller of shame
• Bible mentions: 2 Samuel 9:6

Mephibosheth, the Son of Jonathan, was a cripple. His story tells us that even if you’re crippled, you’re not damned. It is a meaningful name for a child, especially if you want him to be a beacon of hope for himself or others. 

Othniel [oth-nee-el]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Lion of God
• Bible mentions: Judges 3:9

Akin to Eliphaz, Othniel is a rather uncommon name in the scriptures. However, I personally find it nice because of what it means. It is a strong and fierce name for a child who may grow up to be brave, fearless, and determined.

Uzziel [u-zee-el]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: My strength is God
• Bible mentions: Exodus 6:22

I don’t know, but whenever I hear a name that has two “z’s” in it, I know it’s from the scriptures! Overall, Uzziel is a rare and great name for a child. It’s often named by religious parents and families to their children whom they believe and expect to find strength and resilience in their faith.

Philemon [fi-lee-mon]

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Loving, affectionate
• Bible mentions: Philemon 1:1 

Philemon is a tender and caring name for a child who might grow up to be a loving and empathetic individual. Today’s names have a ton of variation from Philemon, there’s Phil, Philip, etc! 

Zephaniah [zef-a-nye-ah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Yahweh has hidden or protected
• Bible mentions: Zephaniah 1:1 

Zephaniah is a meaningful name for a child who is expected to find protection and guidance in their faith.

Zerubbabel [zeh-rub-ba-bel]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Sown in Babylon
• Bible mentions: Ezra 2:2 

Last but most definitely not least is Zerubbabel. Overa, Zerubbabel could be a suitable name for a child born during challenging times, symbolizing the ability to grow and thrive despite adversity. It has this strong diction and symbol to it, making it a unique name! 

15 Weird Biblical Girls Names

Now that we have a list of weird, but amazing biblical boy names, let’s go ahead and try to find those that are for girls! 

Bithiah [bi-thi-ah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Daughter of Yahweh
• Bible mentions: 1 Chronicles 4:18

It is actually a beautiful name for a girl. It gives emphasis to the connection she has with the divine. Moreover, it symbolizes the importance of faith in the family, in older times.A lot of people actually deviated and moved from this name and started names like Beth, Bethany, and many more! 

Dorcas [dor-kus]

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Gazelle
• Bible mentions: Acts 9:36

Dorcas, in the scriptures, was a disciple of Jesus Christ who was known for her good works and her kindness towards the poor. Overall, it’s an interesting choice for a girl child. Although it doesn’t sound normal for a girl in today’s time, it’s a good unique name for a woman. 

Damaris [dam-a-ris]

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Gentle, wife
• Bible mentions: Acts 17:34

Damaris is a soft, feminine name for a girl who may grow up to be gentle, nurturing, and compassionate. In the scriptures, she was described as a woman of Athens who listened to the teachings of the apostle Paul.

Eunice [yoo-nis]

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Good victory
• Bible mentions: 2 Timothy 1:5

Eunice is a powerful name for a child who may grow up to be victorious and successful in their pursuits. She was the mother of Timothy, a young man who became a prominent figure in the early Christian church.

Jabez [jay-bez]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: He causes pain
• Bible mentions: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

While Jabez has a negative meaning, it could be chosen as a reminder of the importance of overcoming hardships and transforming pain into growth. The name’s roots were from the fact that he was given birth in pain from his mother. 

Jezebel [jeh-ze-bel]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: “virginal” or “pure” 
• Bible mentions: 1 Kings 16:31

In the scriptures, Jezebel is a Phoenecian. She was the wife of the great King Ahab of Israel, but she has this negative connotation because she led the worship of Ba’al, who is known as the fertility deity. The name is exquisite and rare. 

Jerusha [je-roo-sha]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Inheritance or possession
• Bible mentions: 2 Kings 15:33

Jerusha was the mother of King Jotham of Judah. Overall, the name Jerusha is an ideal name for a child, especially in today’s time. It’s one of the best and rarest names, considered a precious and cherished gift to the family.

Junia [joo-nee-ah]

• Origin: Latin
• Meaning: Youthful
• Bible mentions: Romans 16:7

She was one of the few individuals imprisoned because of her faith. She was working with Paul in spreading the gospel. Overall, the name Junia is good – it even has many variations today like Juniper, June, etc.

Keziah [keh-zi-ah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Cassia tree or Cinnamon
• Bible mentions: Job 42:14

Keziah was one of Job’s daughters, who was challenged by Satan. The name, overall, is a lovely name for a nature-loving family, evoking the fragrant and beautiful cassia tree.

Keturah [keh-too-rah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Incense
• Bible mentions: Genesis 25:1

The name was mentioned multiple times in the scriptures. She became Abraham’s wife after Sarah, his first wife passed. The name Keturah is actually exceptionally nice and sounds sophisticated and elegant. 

Peninnah [peh-nin-nah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Coral or Pearl
• Bible mentions: 1 Samuel 1:2

She was one of the wives of Elkanah, and the rival of Hannah, who was Elkanah’s other wife. Penninah had an antagonist role in the scriptures. The name is creative and sophisticated in nature. 

Priscilla [pri-sil-a]

• Origin: Latin
• Meaning: Ancient
• Bible mentions: Acts 18:2

The name Priscilla was actually mentioned several times in the scriptures. She was married to Aquila, the Apostle Paul’s friend. It’s a lovely name for a child born into a family with a strong connection to their ancestry and heritage.

Tryphena [tri-fee-nah]

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Delicate, soft
• Bible mentions: Romans 16:12

Tryphena is actually an elegant name for a girl in our generation. In the scriptures, she was a part of the group of women who worked with Paul. 

Talitha [ta-li-tha]

• Origin: Aramaic
• Meaning: Little girl
• Bible mentions: Mark 5:41

This is probably one of the few names in this list that has an Aramaic origin. She was a sweet and endearing name for a little girl who may grow up to embody the innocence and joy of childhood, always reminding the family of life’s simple wonders.

Zillah [zil-ah]

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: Shadow or shade
• Bible mentions: Genesis 4:19

Based on the stories from the scriptures, she was one of the two wives of Lamech, who is a descendant of Cain. Zillah, the name, is mysterious and enchanting at the same time. It’s a great name for a girl as it sounds sophisticated. 

Final Thoughts

To sum up, these exceptional biblical names are significant due to their distinct meanings, rich historical background, and deep connection to faith. 

When parents choose these names for their children, they bestow upon them a distinctive identity that honors their religious legacy and the inspiring narratives recounted in the Bible. Our compilation of these names aims to assist in discovering unconventional yet meaningful biblical names.