Moses

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Moses

Gender Boy
Origin Hebrew
Letters 5
Syllables 1
Pronunciation moh-zes

Moses, which has 5 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Moses

Drawn out of water

Moses is a Hebrew name meaning “drawn from the water” or “saved from the water”. It is a biblical name associated with the prophet who led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.

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(2.8/5 from 12 votes)
Meaning Drawn out of water
Origin Hebrew
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #505 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Moses

The name Moses is of Hebrew origin and has strong religious connotations. Moses is a significant figure in several major religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In the context of the Hebrew Bible, Moses is considered one of the most important prophets and leaders. His name is derived from the Hebrew word "mashah," meaning "to draw out." The name perfectly suits him as he was famously drawn out of the water of the Nile River, where he was left in a basket as an infant to escape Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male babies.

In the biblical narrative, Moses played a pivotal role as the intermediary between God and the Israelite people. He led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. Moses' leadership and guidance were instrumental in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness to the Promised Land. Due to his prominent role and the miracles associated with him, Moses holds a revered position in the hearts of the faithful.

The name Moses has been widely used throughout history and has undergone various adaptations in different languages and cultures. In addition to its religious significance, the name Moses is also tied to many notable figures in literature, film, and art. Notable bearers of the name include Moses Maimonides, a renowned Jewish philosopher, and Moses Mendelssohn, an influential German philosopher of Enlightenment.

In modern times, the name Moses continues to be popular among religious families and individuals who appreciate its historical and cultural importance. The name exudes strength, wisdom, and determination, qualities associated with the biblical figure himself. With its rich symbolism and deep-rooted history, Moses remains an enduring and meaningful name that resonates with people of many different backgrounds.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Moses over the years.

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