Josiah
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Josiah
Josiah, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Hebrew origin.
Meaning of Josiah
God has healed
The name Josiah is of Hebrew origin and is derived from the elements “yo” and “yah” which together mean “Jehovah heals” or “God heals”. The name is associated with the biblical figure Josiah, a king of Judah who initiated sweeping religious reforms during his reign. The name is also associated with spiritual renewal, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a meaningful name for their son.
| Meaning | God has healed |
| Origin | Hebrew |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #53 in 2024 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Common (Top 100) |
| Era | Modern (peaked 2019) |
Background & History of The Name Josiah
The name 'Josiah' is a masculine given name with Hebrew origins. It is derived from the Hebrew name 'Yoshiyahu', meaning 'the Lord supports' or 'the Lord heals'. The name has a significant historical and biblical background.
The biblical significance of the name Josiah dates back to the Old Testament. Josiah was the name of a prominent king of Judah, who ruled from 640 to 609 BCE. He was known for his righteous reign and his efforts to reestablish the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. Josiah's reign marked a period of religious revival and reform, as he purged the land of idolatry and reestablished the central worship at the temple in Jerusalem. His dedication to God and his commitment to the people of Judah earned him praise in religious texts.
The name Josiah became popular among English-speaking Christians during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. It gained popularity due to its biblical roots and the influence of the English Bible. Over time, Josiah has remained a well-loved name, often chosen for its strong and noble connotations.
The name Josiah has also been used in various forms across different cultures. In addition to its English form, it has counterparts in other languages, such as Josias in Portuguese and Spanish, and Josué in French. It has seen usage in different countries around the world, further emphasizing its global appeal and acceptance.
Today, the name Josiah continues to be a popular choice for newborn boys, particularly among families who value biblical heritage and religious significance in their names. Its historical and biblical associations lend it a sense of depth and meaning that appeals to many parents.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Josiah over the years.
Similar Hebrew Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Josiah.
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