Elijah - Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Meaning
- My God is Yahweh
- Pronunciation
- ih-LY-juh
- Gender
- Male
- Variations
- Elias, Elia, Ilya, Eliyahu, Eli
- Notable Namesakes
- Elijah Wood (Actor known for portraying Frodo Baggins in The Lord of The Rings trilogy)
Etymology & Heritage
Elijah originated from the Hebrew name אֵלִיָּהוּ (Eliyyahu) consisting of two elements. The first part, Eli, means my God, and jah is a shortened form of Yahweh, the Hebrew name for God. Therefore, this powerful name means my God is Yahweh.
The name has a strong biblical presence, most notably carried by Elijah, a prophet from the northern kingdoms of Israel in the 9th century BC. His devotion to his faith and God, despite a conflict-filled life, stands as a beacon of ancient steadfastness. This significant figure appears prominently in The Old Testament and The Quran, as well as in later Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.
Character & Essence
Elijah carries in its syllables the weight of religious history and an evocation of spiritual devotion. It embodies qualities of faith, perseverance, and commitment, echoing the life of its biblical namesake who demonstrated unwavering devotion in challenging circumstances.
The name's melodious three-syllable rhythm contributes to its appeal, creating a sound that is both strong and graceful. It's a versatile name that inspires strength, character, and complexity, capable of shaping its bearer's identity through its rich associations with wisdom and spiritual conviction.