Biblical Place Names for Your Baby
by Team Nameslist
Have you ever considered choosing a biblical place name for your baby? If you're a proud parent-to-be, on the hunt for a name that has depth, historical relevance, and a spiritual connection, then you've stumbled upon the right article.
In the annals of the Holy Bible, numerous geographical locations hold significant importance and meaning. These places aren't just historical landmarks but are also imbued with profound symbolic connotations. Therefore, choosing a name from this wellspring of spiritual history for your precious one not only gives them a unique moniker but also a legacy rich with faith and resilience.
This article provides an engaging exploration of some fascinating biblical place names that can be wonderfully repurposed into charming baby names.
We'll delve into the meanings behind these names, painting a vivid picture of their biblical context, and providing you with the inspiration you need to bestow upon your child a name that resonates with significance and heritage.
From Bethel, meaning 'house of God,' to Sharon, symbolizing a 'plain,' and Zion, denoting 'monument,' there's an abundance of choices waiting to be discovered. Get ready to embark on a fascinating, spiritual, and historical journey.
1. Bethlehem
Known as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem has profound Christian symbolism. It translates to 'house of bread', reflecting the sustenance provided by God. This historical and spiritual name can lend a distinctive identity to your child.
2. Elon
Elon was a place in the territory of the tribe of Dan. Meaning 'oak', it symbolizes strength and endurance. As a baby name, Elon offers both a connection to nature and biblical history.
3. Nahor
A city named after Abraham's brother and grandfather, Nahor translates to 'snorting' but carries a strong biblical lineage, making it an interesting choice.
4. Lehi
A place of a miraculous victory in Judges, Lehi means 'jawbone'. While the translation might seem unusual, its biblical significance might make it a fascinating choice.
5. Ono
A city rebuilt by the Benjaminites, Ono means 'vigorous' or 'strong'. Its positive connotation and simple pronunciation make it a captivating choice for a baby name.
6. Azekah
Mentioned in the book of Joshua, Azekah was a town in the Shephelah guarded by mountains. The name means 'dug over'. Azekah's strong biblical ties and the unique sound make it an attractive choice for a baby name.
7. Timnah
An ancient city associated with Samson's story, Timnah means 'portion' or 'territory'. Its historic significance could appeal to parents seeking a unique biblical name.
8. Bethsaida
An ancient city by the Sea of Galilee, Bethsaida means 'house of hunting' in Aramaic. As a baby name, it presents a strong, dynamic option with biblical roots.
9. Rome
The city where Paul preached, Rome represents strength and empire. Its historical and biblical significance can make it a commanding choice for a baby's name.
10. Zoar
A city spared at Lot's plea, Zoar means 'small' or 'insignificance'. Despite its modest meaning, its historical significance and unique sound make it an intriguing choice.
11. Ammon
In the Bible, Ammon refers to the kingdom of the Ammonites, located in what is now Jordan. The name Ammon, of Hebrew origin, means 'tribal'. Ammon brings a sense of ancient nobility and strength, making it a robust choice for a baby's name.
12. Thessalonica
A city Paul visited in Acts, Thessalonica means 'victory of Thessaly'. Given its victorious connotation and biblical relevance, it presents a strong and uplifting choice for a baby name.
13. Beersheba
A well-known biblical city, Beersheba, is translated as 'well of the oath' or 'seven wells'. It was a place of significant events involving Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Beersheba's robust biblical history and profound meaning make it an impressive choice for a baby's name.
14. Uz
The homeland of Job in the Old Testament, Uz means 'consultation'. With its association to Job's story of faith and endurance, this name carries a strong spiritual resonance.
15. Ekron
One of the five chief cities of the Philistines, Ekron means 'rooting out'. While it has a strong historical presence, its meaning also suggests resilience and perseverance, qualities parents may wish to instill in their child.
16. Antioch
A significant city in the early Christian movement, Antioch was where followers of Jesus were first called Christians. The name Antioch is of Greek origin, meaning 'stubborn' or 'resolute'. It reflects a sense of determination and resilience.
17. Ataroth
A place east of the Jordan river, Ataroth was a town allotted to the tribe of Gad. Ataroth means 'crowns' in Hebrew, suggesting a sense of royalty and majesty. This name could be a great option for parents seeking a name with regal connotations.
18. Gath
One of the five royal cities of the Philistines, Gath translates to 'winepress'. Gath offers a strong, one-syllable name choice with a rich biblical history.
19. Ivvah
An Assyrian city mentioned in the Book of Kings, Ivvah's exact meaning remains uncertain. Nonetheless, its brevity and historical significance may appeal to parents.
20. Nazareth
The city where Jesus spent his childhood, Nazareth translates to 'the guarded one'. With its rich historical and religious significance, it makes for a profound choice for a baby name.
21. Horeb
Another name for Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments, Horeb means 'desert' or 'waste'. Despite its stark translation, its biblical significance and strong consonants may attract parents.
22. Asher
Asher is a place within the territory of the tribe of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Asher translates to 'happy' or 'blessed' in Hebrew. This joyous meaning, combined with the name's soft, pleasing sound, makes it a popular choice for both boys and girls.
23. Tabor
A mountain with significant biblical events, Tabor means 'height'. Its reference to elevation and historical significance makes it a unique option for a baby's name.
Despite its earthy translation, its connection to a pivotal biblical event makes it a compelling choice.
24. Salem
An early name for Jerusalem, Salem means 'peace'. This name carries a serene connotation, making it a comforting and inspiring choice.
25. Ephraim
Originally a prominent tribe of Israel, Ephraim means 'fruitful'. As a baby name, Ephraim embodies abundance and prosperity, making it a meaningful choice for parents.
26. Hebron
One of the oldest cities in the world, Hebron, means 'alliance' or 'friendship'. It represents unity and camaraderie, making it an inspiring choice for a baby name.
27. Samaria
A significant city in biblical history, Samaria means 'watch mountain'. With its watchful connotation and historical resonance, it offers a unique choice for a baby's name.
28. Troas
A significant city Paul visited, Troas means 'Trojan', deriving from its founding by colonists from Troy. This name offers a unique blend of biblical and classical history, making it a remarkable choice.
29. Sidon
An ancient Phoenician city, Sidon means 'fishing'. With its connection to the sea and historical resonance, this name offers an intriguing choice for parents seeking an unique biblical name.
30. Lydda
A New Testament city where Peter healed a paralytic man, Lydda's meaning is uncertain. Still, its biblical prominence could make it an appealing choice.
31. Ephesus
An important city in the New Testament and the site of Paul's ministry, Ephesus means 'desirable'. It lends a sense of desirable qualities and virtues, and makes for an elegant and historically rich baby name.
32. Eglon
This was a Canaanite city conquered by Joshua. Eglon means 'calf-like', an unusual translation that might pique the interest of parents looking for a truly unique biblical name.
33. Kedesh
A Canaanite city later assigned to the tribe of Naphtali, Kedesh means 'holy' or 'sanctuary'. This name carries a sense of reverence and spiritual significance, making it an inspirational choice.
34. Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments, Sinai means 'thorny'. Its spiritual significance and historical importance make it a potent choice, despite its prickly meaning.
35. Ashdod
This was a Philistine city mentioned numerous times in the Bible, including the book of Joshua and the book of Samuel. Ashdod is an intriguing name choice, meaning 'powerful' or 'fortress' in Hebrew, symbolizing strength and resilience.
36. Beeroth
Beeroth, mentioned in the Book of Joshua, was a city of the Gibeonite. Meaning 'wells', it is symbolically tied to sustenance and life in the harsh desert climates. As a baby name, Beeroth carries an aura of resilience and determination.
37. Moab
A historic kingdom located in present-day Jordan, Moab means 'of his father'. With its ancient history and notable biblical stories, it provides a striking choice for a baby's name.
38. Gadara
An ancient city southeast of the Sea of Galilee, Gadara's name meaning is uncertain. However, its biblical prominence and unique sound make it an appealing and distinctive choice.
39. Abel
Abel, also known as Abel Beth Maacah in the Bible, is a quaint yet distinctive name. Rooted in Hebrew origins, Abel signifies 'meadow'. This biblical place name found in 2 Samuel 20:15, often chosen for its soft sound and peaceful connotation, can be a perfect fit for a baby.
40. Jaffa
An ancient port city in Israel, Jaffa is associated with the biblical story of Jonah and the whale. Meaning 'beautiful', it's a lovely and historical choice for a baby's name.
41. Kadesh
Also known as Kadesh-Barnea, it was an important site in the Exodus journey. Kadesh means 'holy' or 'sacred', offering a spiritually potent option for a baby name.
42. Bethel
Bethel, meaning 'house of God', was a sacred place in the Old Testament where Jacob saw his dream. It's a well-loved choice for parents who want a name with spiritual significance and biblical grounding.
43. Shechem
An ancient city in Canaan, Shechem means 'shoulder' or 'saddle'. Despite its physical connotation, its rich history in Genesis makes it an interesting name.
44. Aphek
A place of many battles in the Bible, Aphek translates to 'strength' or 'fortress' in Hebrew. This name can be a symbol of strength and solidity, perfect for a newborn.
45. Edrei
An ancient royal city of the Amorites, Edrei translates to 'mighty' or 'very great'. If you're seeking a name that radiates strength and grandeur, Edrei could be an excellent choice.
46. Admah
This ancient city was one of the five Cities of the Plain mentioned in Genesis 14. The name Admah means 'red earth' or 'ground', referring to the fertile lands that once surrounded it. Admah offers a strong, distinctive choice for a baby name, with an earthy connection.
47. Giloh
A city in the hill country of Judah, Giloh's meaning is uncertain, but it carries a soft, flowing sound that could appeal to parents seeking a unique biblical name.
48. Bochim
Bochim, meaning 'weepers', was a place where Israelites were rebuked by an angel of the Lord, as per the Book of Judges. Despite its melancholic translation, Bochim's unique sound might appeal to parents seeking an unusual biblical place name.
49. Shiloh
A significant city in biblical times, Shiloh means 'peace'. Given its historical significance and serene connotation, it's an appealing choice for a baby's name.
50. Hezron
A location in the south of Judah, Hezron means 'enclosed' or 'surrounded by a wall'. It has a sense of protection and security, making it a comforting choice for a baby name.
51. Hamath
An ancient city in Syria mentioned in Genesis, Hamath means 'fortress'. This strong, protective connotation can make Hamath an appealing choice for parents.
52. Baca
Baca, also known as the Valley of Baca, was a place of weeping in the Bible. The name means 'weeping'. Though its meaning carries a melancholic tone, its soft sound has attracted parents looking for a unique and historically rich name.
53. Dothan
A place of significant biblical events, like Joseph being sold by his brothers, Dothan means 'two wells'. As a baby name, it offers a balance of biblical depth and unique phonetic appeal.
54. Eshcol
A valley in Canaan where Moses sent spies to fetch grapes, Eshcol translates to 'cluster of grapes'. This name is ripe with symbolism and biblical significance and could be a delightful pick for parents.
55. Haran
An ancient city where Abraham lived, Haran means 'mountaineer' or 'mountainous country'. With its connection to a significant biblical figure and nature, Haran can be a compelling choice.
56. Baalath
This ancient town, mentioned in the books of Kings and Chronicles, was rebuilt by Solomon. Baalath, meaning 'mistress' or 'bride' in Hebrew, carries an air of elegance and grace, making it a unique choice for a baby girl's name.
57. Paran
A wilderness area where Ishmael lived, Paran means 'place of caverns'. Its historical significance and the adventurous connotation can make it a compelling choice.
58. Ophrah
A town visited by Gideon in Judges, Ophrah means 'fawn'. Its delicate, nature-inspired translation and biblical context might make it an appealing choice for parents.
59. Dibon
An ancient town of Moab, Dibon is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament. Its meaning remains uncertain, but it carries an air of history and mystery, making it a distinctive choice.
60. Jebus
The ancient city later known as Jerusalem, Jebus, meaning 'threshing place', represents a foundational piece of biblical history, making it a significant choice for a baby's name.
61. Zion
A term that represents Jerusalem and the Promised Land, Zion means 'parched place'. Despite its dry translation, its strong biblical and spiritual associations make it an inspiring option for a baby's name.
62. Keilah
An ancient city defended by David, Keilah translates to 'citadel' or 'fortress'. With its connotation of strength and protection, it presents a strong choice for a baby name.
63. Olivet
Another name for the Mount of Olives, a significant location in Jesus' life, Olivet means 'olive tree'. This name resonates with peace and biblical history, making it a beautiful choice.
64. Gerar
An ancient Philistine town visited by Abraham and Isaac, Gerar means 'lodging place'. If you're drawn to the idea of a home or haven, Gerar could be an interesting choice.
65. Jezreel
A city in Israel, Jezreel means 'God sows'. This name embodies a sense of divine providence and nurture, making it a spiritually meaningful choice.
66. Teman
A city in Edom associated with wisdom, Teman means 'south' or 'on the right hand'. With its connection to wisdom and location significance, it's a thoughtful choice for a baby's name.
67. Carmel
A mountain range in Israel, Carmel was famed for its lush beauty and fertility, with the name meaning 'garden' or 'vineyard'. As a baby name, Carmel offers a refreshing, earthy choice rooted in natural beauty.
68. Sharon
A fertile plain in Israel, Sharon means 'a plain' or 'flat area'. Associated with beauty in the Song of Solomon, this name presents a lovely choice for a baby's name.
69. Avith
Avith was the capital city of Edom's King Hadad, as per Genesis. The meaning of Avith is 'ruins'. Though the meaning might seem a bit gloomy, the name has a unique allure and is an excellent choice for parents looking for a name with a rich biblical history.
70. Manasseh
A territory named after one of Joseph's sons, Manasseh means 'causing to forget'. With its rich biblical history, it offers a distinctive choice for a baby name.
71. Gilead
Known as a mountainous region east of Jordan, Gilead translates to 'hill of testimony' or 'mound of witness'. This carries a sense of spiritual significance and testimony, making Gilead a meaningful choice.
72. Naphtali
Named after Jacob's son, this region means 'my wrestling'. Naphtali's historic and spiritual significance, coupled with its soft sound, could appeal to many parents.
73. Pithom
An Egyptian city built by Hebrew slaves, Pithom means 'city of justice'. Its historical significance and connotation of fairness can make it an interesting choice.
74. Arpad
Found in the book of Isaiah, Arpad was an ancient city in Aram (modern Syria). The name, of unknown meaning, conveys a sense of history and solidity that's unique and hard to forget, making it a remarkable choice for a baby name.
75. Idalah
This town from the tribe of Zebulun carries an uncertain meaning but brings a pleasant, melodious sound to the ear, making it a potential choice for parents seeking a unique biblical name.
76. Sodom
Although known for its destruction due to immorality, Sodom, meaning 'burning', could still hold appeal due to its unmistakable biblical connection.
77. Galilee
A region in northern Israel where Jesus performed many miracles, Galilee means 'circle' or 'region'. This name carries significant religious connotations and a pleasing rhythmic sound.
78. Marah
A place visited by the Israelites in Exodus, Marah means 'bitter'. Despite its less than sweet translation, the place's biblical significance may make it a fascinating choice.
79. Tekoa
An ancient town known for its wise woman in 2 Samuel, Tekoa means 'trumpet blast'. With its sound-associated meaning and biblical significance, it makes an interesting choice for a baby's name.
80. Philadelphia
One of the seven churches of the Apocalypse, Philadelphia means 'brotherly love'. This name carries a beautiful sentiment, making it a warm and positive choice.
81. Ai
Ai is a Canaanite city conquered by the Israelites under their leader Joshua, as mentioned in the Book of Joshua. The name Ai translates to 'ruin' or 'heap of ruins'. Despite its slightly somber meaning, Ai's brevity and uniqueness make it an appealing choice for parents seeking something brief yet impactful.
82. Jordan
A river of significant biblical events, including Jesus' baptism, Jordan means 'descend' or 'flow down'. Its historical relevance and pleasant sound make it a popular choice.
83. Ramah
A city mentioned in both Old and New Testaments, Ramah translates to 'height' or 'high place'. This connotation of elevation, both literal and metaphorical, can make it a powerful choice.
84. Moriah
The mountain where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac, Moriah means 'seen by God'. This name carries a profound spiritual significance, making it a powerful choice for a baby's name.
85. Sheba
An ancient city known for the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon, Sheba means 'oath'. With its biblical and royal connections, this name offers an elegant choice.
86. Jabbok
A river in the Bible that Jacob crossed, Jabbok means 'emptying'. It offers an unusual and evocative option for parents seeking a name with biblical significance.
87. Heshbon
A city of ancient Moab, Heshbon translates to 'stronghold' or 'intelligence'. It could be an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with connotations of strength and wisdom.
88. Arad
A Canaanite city in the Negev mentioned in Numbers, Arad means 'fugitive'. The name carries a somewhat mysterious and adventurous undertone.
89. Calneh
This ancient city, referred to in Genesis, is of uncertain meaning but believed to be tied to 'fortress'. Calneh presents a powerful, historical choice as a baby's name.
90. Tyre
An ancient city known for its wealth and beauty, Tyre means 'rock'. Despite its simple translation, the city's historic splendor might make it an appealing option for parents.
91. Nebo
A peak in the Abarim Mountains where Moses viewed the Promised Land, Nebo means 'prophet'. This name carries significant biblical importance and offers a short yet impactful choice.
92. Rehoboth
An ancient city built by Isaac, Rehoboth means 'broad places' or 'streets'. This name carries a connotation of expansion and freedom, making it an appealing choice.
93. Luz
The ancient name for Bethel, Luz means 'almond tree' or 'departure'. This could appeal to parents seeking a name with a connection to nature and spirituality.
94. Mamre
An ancient site near Hebron, Mamre means 'firmness' or 'fatness'. It could be an interesting choice for parents wanting a name that signifies strength and abundance.
95. Aroer
This biblical place, perched on the northern edge of the Arnon gorge, means 'naked' or 'bare' in Hebrew. Aroer could be a unique choice for parents seeking a name off the beaten path.
96. Dan
Originally called Laish, this city was renamed Dan after the tribe that conquered it. Meaning 'judgment' or 'he who judges', Dan offers simplicity and biblical weight, making it a timeless choice.
97. Tarshish
A distant seaport famed for its ships in the Book of Jonah, Tarshish's meaning is uncertain. However, its sea connections and biblical prominence can make it a fascinating choice.
98. Sardis
One of the seven churches of Asia, Sardis means 'red ones'. Despite its uncertain connection to the color red, its mention in the Book of Revelation makes it an intriguing option.
99. Debir
Also known as Kirjath-sepher, Debir was a Canaanite royal city. Debir translates to 'sanctuary'. It presents a serene and spiritually significant option for parents drawn to the idea of a sacred refuge.
100. Lebanon
Known for its beautiful cedar trees in the Bible, Lebanon translates to 'white mountain', symbolizing purity and majesty. It presents an attractive choice for parents seeking a nature-inspired biblical name.
101. Gaza
An ancient Philistine city, Gaza means 'strong'. Its short and powerful pronunciation paired with its meaning make it an impactful choice for a baby name.
102. Jazer
A town mentioned in Numbers, Jazer means 'help'. It could make an appealing choice for parents who want a name signifying assistance or support.
103. Judah
A biblical place name and a significant tribe of Israel, Judah means 'praised'. This uplifting connotation and historical significance make it a cherished choice.
Conclusion
The world of biblical place names offers a rich tapestry of unique and meaningful choices for your child's name. As we've journeyed through the biblical landscapes, we've discovered that each place name holds a unique history, layered with rich symbolism and deep spiritual significance.
These are more than just names - they're a link to our collective past, a bridge to spiritual understanding, and an anchor for your child's identity.
Whether it's the enduring strength of 'Zion,' the divine wisdom of 'Bethel,' or the quiet beauty of 'Shiloh,' these biblical place names can provide your child with a name that's as unique as it is meaningful.
