Handout 2: Traditional Jewish Names
Part of Building Bridges
Abram — Exalted Father
Abraham — Father of Many / Father of Nations
Amos — To Carry
Baruch — Blessed
Benjamin — Son of the South
Chaya — Life
Esther — Star
Ethan — Solid, Enduring
Ezra — Help
David — Beloved
Deborah — Bee
Ephraim — Fruitful
Eli — Height, Ascension
Hannah — Favor or Grace
Hillel — Praise
Isaac — He Laughs
Israel — One Who Wrestles with God
Jacob — Supplanter (one who takes another's place) / Betrayer
Joseph — He Will Add
Leah — Weary
Levi — Attached
Marni — Rejoice
Martha — Lady, Mistress of the House
Maya — Water
Menachem — Comforter
Miriam — Bitterness, Rebelliousness, or Wished for Child
Naomi — Pleasantness
Rachel — Ewe
Raisa — Rose
Reuben — Behold, a Son
Ron — Song, Joy
Sarah — Princess / Princess of All
Sarai — My Princess
Shayna — Beautiful
Shimon (Simon) — Hearkening, Listening
Solomon — Peace
Tobiah — Yahweh Is Good
Uriel — God Is My Light
Zelda — Luck