Traditional Girl Names from the Bible
Abigail There are two women named Abigail in the Bible—one married King David after her husband died (1 Samuel 25), and the other was David’s half sister (1 Chronicles 2). There’s also an Abi (2 Kings 18) and two Abihails (Numbers 3, 1 Chronicles 2). Meaning: “My father is joy” or “my father’s joy” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Abi, Abia, Abiah, Abihail, Abby
Ada There are two women named Adah in the Bible. One is Lamech’s wife and the mother of Jabal and Jubal—she’s the second woman named in the Bible after Eve (Genesis 4). The second is one of Esau’s three wives and the mother of Eliphaz (Genesis 36). Meaning: “Ornament” or “adornment” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Adah
Anna Anna is a female prophet in the New Testament (Luke 2). Scripture says that she never left the temple, remaining there to pray all day and night. She still serves as an example of steadfast faith today. The name “Anna” is considered a variation on Hannah. Meaning: “Grace,” “gracious,” “merciful,” or “favor” Origin: Greek Variations: Anah, Ana, Anne, Ann, Annissa, Annie, Ani, Anika
Chloe Chloe is mentioned in passing by the apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 1). We don’t know much about her, except that she was an early Christian living in Corinth—but her name remains popular today. Meaning: “Green shoot” Origin: Greek Variations: Chloë, Khloe, Cloe
Claudia The name Claudia occurs once in the Bible (2 Timothy 4). Paul mentions that she sends her greetings to Timothy, so it’s likely that she was in Rome since that’s where Paul was writing from. Meaning: “Limping” Origin: Latin Variations: Klaudia
Elizabeth In the Bible (Luke 1), Elizabeth is the wife of Zechariah and the mother of John the Baptist. She’s also Mary’s cousin, making her a direct relative of Jesus. Meaning: “My God is an oath,” “God is my oath” Origin: Greek Variations: Elisabeth, Elsabeth, Beth, Bette, Betty, Elle, Ella, Eliza, Elyse, Leanna, Liana, Lilian, Lilibet, Lillian, Lillie, Lisa, Liza, Lizette, Lizzie, Elisa, Isabel Elsa
Eve Eve is the first woman named in the Bible (Genesis 1) and the mother of all humans. She’s known for accepting the forbidden fruit from the serpent, but her name has been used since at least the Middle Ages. Meaning: “To breathe” or “to live” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Eva, Ava, Avah, Evie, Evi
Hannah Hannah is the second wife of Elkanah, and although he loves her, she is unable to conceive a child. She travels to a temple and prays for a child, promising to dedicate her child to the Lord if He will give her a son. Eventually, her faith is rewarded—she gives birth to Samuel, who becomes a judge and prophet of Israel. Meaning: “Favor,” “grace” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Hanna, Chana, Hana, Anna, Anne, Ann
Joanna Joanna was a follower of Jesus (Luke 8). He cured her of an ailment (described as an “evil spirit and disease”), and afterward, she traveled with him throughout his ministry. Meaning: “God is gracious” Origin: Greek/Latin Variations: Jana, Gianna, Jeanne, Joanne, Jo, Jodi, Jodie, Nina, Iohanna, Yanna, Ivana, Giovana, Juana, Juanita
Judith In the Protestant Bible, Judith is mentioned as a wife of Esau (Genesis 26). But the Septuagint (The Greek version of the Bible) and Roman Catholic Bibles include The Book of Judith, the story of a Jewish widow who kills the Assyrian general Holofernes, leading to the Assyrians’ defeat in battle. Meaning: “Jewish woman” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Jude, Judi, Judy, Judit, Dita
Julia Julia is briefly mentioned in the New Testament (Romans 16) as part of Paul’s greetings to the early Roman church. The name was common in Rome at the time. Meaning: “Youthful,” “Jove’s child” Origin: Roman Variations: Julie, Julissa, Jules, Jools, Lia, Lilli, Giulia
Leah Leah is the oldest daughter of Laban (Gen 29). Jacob wants to marry Leah’s sister Rachel, but he’s tricked into marrying Leah as well. He then marries Leah, who gives him numerous sons. Meaning: “Weary,” “grieved”, or “cow” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Lea, Leia, Lia
Mary Mary is a common name in the Bible—there are 6 different women named Mary. The most famous, of course, is Jesus’ mother (Matthew 1), but others include Mary Magdalene (Luke 8), Mary of Bethany (Luke 10), Mary mother of James and Joseph (Mark 15), Mary mother of John Mark (Acts 12), and Mary of Rome (Romans 16). Meaning: “Rebelliousness,” “wished for child,” “sea of bitterness” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Maria, Marie, Maria, Mari, Miriam, Maryam Mare, Maia, Malia, Mia, Marieta, Mariette
Naomi Naomi is a major character in the Book of Ruth. Naomi and her husband move from Judea to Moab during a famine. While they live there, their two sons marry Moabite women. Eventually, Naomi’s husband and sons all die, and Naomi decides to return to Judea, but Naomi’s daughter-in-law Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi. Meaning: “Sweet,” “pleasant” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Noemi, Na’omi
Phoebe Phoebe is mentioned once in the bible (Romans 16). Paul introduces her to the recipients of his letter to the church in Rome, saying that she is a “deacon of the church in Cenchreae. Meaning: “Bright,” “radiant,” “pure” Origin: Greek Variations: Pheobe, Febe
Rachel Rachel is the younger son of Laban, Leah’s sister, and Jacob’s second wife (Gen 29). After remaining barren for years (despite being Jacob’s favorite wife), she eventually gave him two sons—Joseph and Benjamin. Meaning: “Ewe” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Rachael, Rachelle, Rae
Rebekah In the Bible, Rebekah is the wife of Isaac and the mother of twins Jacob and Esau (Gen 24). By helping her son Jacob obtain Esau’s birthright, she assists him in becoming the father of the Israelites. Meaning: “Join,” “tie” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Rebecca, Rebekka, Becca, Becky, Beck
Ruth In the Bible, Ruth is such an example of love and loyalty that a whole book is dedicated to her. After she’s widowed, she refuses to leave her mother-in-law Naomi, converting to her religion. She remarries and ultimately becomes a part of Jesus’ ancestral lineage. Meaning: “Female friend” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Ruthie, Ruta
Sarah Sarah—originally Sarai—is the wife of Abraham. She gave birth to her son Isaac when she was 90 years old, fulfilling God’s promise that she would be the “mother of nations.” Meaning: “Lady,” “princess” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Sara, Sarai, Serah, Sadie, Sally, Sarina
Tabitha Tabitha (also called Dorcas) is a follower of Jesus (Acts 9). She was known for her charitable works. After Tabitha became ill and died, Peter prayed over her and she returned to life. Meaning: “Gazelle” Origin: Aramaic Variations: Tabatha, Tabby
Powerful Girl Names in the Bible
Atarah Atarah is the mother of Onam and grandmother of Rehoboam (1 Chronicles 2), the first king of the Israelites. She’s also an ancestor of King David—and therefore of Jesus. Meaning: “Crown” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Atara
Candace In the New Testament (Acts 8), Candace is the queen of a church in Ethiopia that’s converted to Christianity. The name Candace was a title (like “Pharoah”), but it’s been popular as a girls’ name since at least the 16th century. Meaning: “Queen mother” Origin: Greek Variations: Candice, Candis, Kandace, Candi, Candy, Kandi
Drusilla Drusilla was a beautiful daughter of Herod Agrippa I (Acts 24). She was married to Governor Felix of Israel, and we’re told she was curious about the preaching of Paul in Caesarea. Meaning: “Strong,” “courageous” Origin: Roman Variations: Druscilla
Lydia Lydia is mentioned twice in the Bible (Acts 16). First, we’re told of her conversion to Christianity, then a few verses later, there’s a record of her baptism in Philippi. Lydia sold purple cloth, and was likely a Hebrew. Meaning: “From Lydia” Origin: Greek Variations: Lydia, Liddy, Lyda
Priscilla Priscilla and her husband Aquila were friends of Paul’s (Acts 18). Originally from Italy, they moved to Corinth to escape persecution. Priscilla is considered a shining example of hospitality, opening her home to Paul for over a year. Meaning: “Ancient” Origin: Roman Variations: Priscille, Cissy, Pris, Scilla
Tamar The name Tamar is given to 3 different women in the Bible. The first is a daughter of Absalom (2 Samuel 14) who is said to be quite beautiful. The second is a daughter-in-law of Judah (Genesis 38) and the third is King David’s daughter (2 Samuel 13)—both of their stories are fairly tragic, but their name is a strong legacy today. Meaning: “Date palm” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Tamara, Tammy, Tammie
Beautiful Biblical Girl Names
Abital Abital is one of King David’s wives. She’s mentioned several times (2 Samel 3, 1 Chronicles 3, 1 Chronicles 14), but generally only in the context of being the mother of David’s son Shephatiah. Her name is a beautiful and uncommon choice for a little girl. Meaning: “My father is dew” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Avital
Ahlai There are two women named Ahlai mentioned in the Bible. The first is the daughter of Seshan (1 Chronicles 2), and the second is the mother of Zabad (1 Chronicles). Although we don’t know much more about them than their family connections, this is a beautiful Biblical name that’s not used very often. Meaning: “O would that” Origin: Hebrew
Damaris We don’t know much about Damaris—only that she lived in Athens and became a follower after hearing Paul preach (Acts 17). But we love her beautiful, strong name. Meaning: “Calf,” “girl” Origin: Greek
Delilah Delilah isn’t a Biblical hero—she’s betrayed Samson after the two had an affair (Judges 16), leading to his enslavement. However, her name has largely shed its association, and today is a popular and beautiful girls’ name. Meaning: “Delicate,” “languishing” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Delila, Dalila
Elisheba In the Old Testament, Elisheba is the wife of Moses’ brother Aaron (Exodus 6). We don’t know much about her, but she bore Aaron four sons, and her name is a beautiful and unusual variant on Elizabeth. Meaning: “My God is an oath” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Elizabeth, Elisabeth, Liz, Lisa, Liza
Jael In the Old Jestament, Jael was a Midianite woman who killed Sisera, the captain of the Canaanite army, leading to victory for the Israelites. Her heroic actions were preserved in song. Today, her name is somewhat uncommon, but lovely. Meaning: “Ibex” Origin: xHebrew Variations: Yael
Keturah Keturah was the second wife of Moses—he married her after Sarah’s death. We don’t know much about her except that she gave Abraham 6 sons. One of her sons, Midian, was the father of the Midianites. Meaning: “Incense” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Qeturah
Kezia Kezia is the second daughter born to Job after he was tested by Satan (Job 42). Her presence is significant because she represents Job’s restoration—she is a gift from God to reward Job for his faith. Meaning: “Cassia,” “cinnamon” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Keziah, Kizzy
Mara After Naomi’s husband and sons die (Ruth 1), her grief causes her to cry out, “Call me Mara,” (meaning “bitter”) “because the Almighty has made my life very bitter.” It might be a sorrowful name, but it’s beautiful—and fairly unique. Meaning: “Bitter” Origin: Hebrew
Micaiah The name Micaiah appears several times in the Bible, and it’s used for both males and females. As a girls’ name, it refers to Micaiah, daughter of Uriel and mother of King Abijah (2 Chronicles 13). Variations of this pretty name have become increasingly popular in recent years. Meaning: “Who is Like Yahweh?” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Mikayah, Makaya, Makiya
Michal Michal is the daughter of King Saul and wife of David. Although David and Michal initially loved each other deeply, her father gave her to another man. David took her back, but resentment grew between them and she never had children. Meaning: “Brook” Origin: Hebrew
Miriam Miriam is Moses’ sister and a prophetess (Exodus 2). She watches over Moses when he’s sent down the Nile in a reed basket and travels with him into the wilderness. Her story is a complex one, but her name (a variation of Mary) is simply charming. Meaning: “Rebelliousness” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Miryam, Mariam, Maryam, Maria, Mari, Mere, Miri, Mariana
Sheerah Sheerah is named in the Old Testament (1 Chronicles 4) as a granddaughter of Ephraim. Amazingly, she’s credited with building three cities (Lower Beth-horon, Upper Beth-horon, and Uzzen-sheerah). Such a powerful and inspirational figure—with a beautiful name. Meaning: “Kinswoman” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Sherah, Seera
Vashti In the Bible, Vashti is the queen of King Xerxes (Esther 1). While her husband hosts a banquet for the men of his vast kingdom, Queen Vashti holds her own banquet for the women. When she refuses to appear before Xerxes, he banishes her and eventually marries Esther instead. Meaning: “Good” Origin: Persian
Zeruah In the Old Testament, Zeruah is a window and the mother of Jeroboam (1 Kings 11). Jeroboam rebelled against King Solomon and eventually became the ruler of the Northern tribes of Israel. Meaning: “Leper,” “wasp” Origin: Hebrew
Old-Fashioned Biblical Girl Names
Bernice The Biblical Bernice (Acts 25) is a controversial figure—after her first two husbands died (one of them was her uncle), it’s rumored that she had an affair with her brother, who was king at the time. The name “Bernice” has been popular at times, but today it is considered a little old-fashioned. The variant “Veronica” is more common. Meaning: “Bringing victory” Origin: Greek Variations: Berenice, Veronica, Veronika
Deborah Deborah was the only female judge and prophet of Israel. Thanks in part to the help of Jael (mentioned above), Deborah helps defeat the Canaanites. While the name Deborah might not be as popular as it once was, this strong, lovely name is sure to see a resurgence before long. Meaning: “Bee” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Debra, Deb, Debbie, Devora
Dinah The story of Dinah (Genesis 30) is a tragic one. She was abducted and assaulted, and her brothers Simeon and Levi attacked and killed all of the males in the city of Shechem in revenge. But despite this, the name “Dinah” has enjoyed periods of popularity. Meaning: “Judged” Origin: Hebrew Variations: Deina, Dina
Esther After Queen Vashti refused to see King Xerxes (Ester 1), he banished her and set out on a search for a new queen. Eventually, he chose Esther, who used her new position to prevent a massacre of the Hebrew people. The name Esther is seen as a bit old-fashioned, but it’s seeing a resurgence. Meaning: “Star” Origin: Hebrew/Persian Variations: Ester, Essie, Estera
Eunice There’s only a brief mention of Eunice in the Bible (2 Timothy)—Paul complements young Timothy by comparing his faith to that of his mother (Eunice) and grandmother (Lois). We think the name Eunice is sweetly old-fashioned. Meaning: “Good victory” Origin: Greek
Jemima Jemima is one of the daughters given to Job after his tests (Job 42). Like Kezia, Jemima is a gift from God. However, the association with the pancake syrup brand probably keeps this one from being more popular. Meaning: “Daytime,” “dove” Origin: Hebrew
Lois Like Eunice, the only mention of Timothy’s grandmother Lois is a single verse in Paul’s letter to Timothy (2 Timothy). Lois is currently a little old-fashioned, but it’s still a pretty name that represents strength and faith. Meaning: “Better” Origin: Greek
Martha In the Bible, Martha is a close friend of Jesus (John 11). She’s shown serving Jesus and his followers on more than one occasion, and she expresses deep faith in Jesus when he appears following the death of her brother Lazarus—faith that’s rewarded when Jesus brings her brother back to life. Meaning: “The lady,” “the mistress” Origin: Aramaic Variations: Marta, Marthe, Marte, Patsy, Pattie
Rhoda Rhoda is a servant in the house of Mary, mother of Mark (Acts 12). When an angel sets Peter free from prison, he travels to the house, but when he knocks on the door, Rhoda is so excited she forgets to open it and let him in. While the name isn’t especially popular now, it’s still quite lovely. Meaning: “Rose” Origin: Greek
Susanna In the Protestant Bible, only one Susanna is named (Luke 8). All we know about her is that she’s a believer who’s traveling with Jesus and his disciples There’s also a Book of Susanna included in the Apocrypha (which is not officially part of the canonical Bible) that tells the story of two elders who are attracted by Susanna’s beauty. Meaning: “Lily” Origin: Greek Variations: Susanne, Suzanne, Susan, Sue, Susie
Unique Biblical Girl Names
These names are from the Bible, but they aren’t commonly used in English. They may be difficult to pronounce or just sound too unusual to be common. However, if you’re looking for something very unique and Biblically-based, you might enjoy reading these—they might even inspire you to create your own modern-day variation: Abishag—”My father strays” Achsah—”Anklet” Ahinoam—”My brother is pleasant” Apphia—”Increasing” Asenath—”Belonging to the goddess Neith” Azubah—”Forsaken” Basemath—”Fragrance” Bathsheba—”Daughter of the oath” Bilhah—”Bashful” Bithiah—”Daughter of Yahweh” Cozbi—”My deception” Dorcas—”Gazelle” Eglah—”Heifer” Ephrath—”Fruitful place” Gomer—”Complete” Hadassah—”Myrtle tree” Hagar—”Flight” Haggith—”Festive” Hammoleketh—”The reigning one” Hamutal—”Father-in-law is dew” Hazelelponi—”Shade coming upon me” Helah—”Rust” Hephzibah—”My delight is in her” Hodesh—”New moon” Hodiah—”Majesty of Yahweh” Hoglah—”Partridge” Huldah—”Weasel”, “mole” Iscah—”To behold” Jecoliah—”Yahweh is able” Jedidah—”Beloved,” “friend” Jehoaddan—”Yahweh delights” Jehosheba—”Yahweh is an oath” Jerioth—”Curtains,” “drapes” Jerusha—”Possession” Jochebed—”Yahweh is glory” Keren-Happuch—”Horn of antimony” Maacah—”To press,” “to crush” Matred—”Pushing forward” Mehetabel—”God makes happy” Merab—”Abundant” Meshullemeth—”Friend,” “ally” Milcah—”Queen” Naamah—”Pleasant” Naarah—”Girl,” “maiden” Nehushta—”Copper” Oholibamah—”Tent of the high place” Orpah—”Back of the neck” Peninnah—”Pearl,” “coral,” “precious stone” Persis—”Persian woman” Rahab—”Spacious” Reumah—”Elevated,” “exalted” Rizpah—”Coal,” “hot stone” Shelomith—”Peaceful” Shimeath—”Report,” “fame” Shimrith—”To keep,” “guard” Shomer—”Keeper,” “guarded” Shua—”Rays of sunlight” Syntyche—”Occurrence,” “event” Tahpenes—”Wife of the king” Taphath—”Drop” Tirzah—”Favourable” Tryphena—”Softness,” “delicacy” Zebidah—”To give” Zibiah—”Female gazelle” Zillah—”Shade” Zilpah—”Frailty” Zipporah—”Bird”
Scripture-Inspired Names
These names don’t belong to women in the Bible, but they’re Biblically-inspired. They’re a great way to choose a faith-based name if none of the other options are quite what you’re looking for. Some of our favorite Christian-inspired names include: Hope Faith Genesis Jordan Promise Heaven Nevaeh Lily Gabriella Grace Joy Christina, Christianna Angel, Angelina, Angela Blessing Charity Chastity Constance Destiny Eternity Patience Felicity Glory Honor Mercy Serenity Temperance Evangeline (From “evangelism”) Eliana (”My God has answered” in Hebrew)
Names of Female Saints
These names are inspired by Catholic saints. They’re not in the Bible, but they’re strong Christian names. Any of these would be a beautiful choice for a little girl, and she’d have a strong legacy of good works to live up to. Some of our favorite female saint names include: Adelaide Adele Alena Aleydis Alix Alodia Amata Anastasia Anatolia Antoinette Anysia Asella Asteria Attalia Aurea Aurelia Ava Beatrix Bellina Brigid Catherine Cecilia Celine Clare Demetria Diana Emiliana Genevieve Georgia Gwen Helena Hilaria Hyacinth Ida Imma Isabel Isidora Juliana Juliette Kateri Katharine Kevoca Kiara Kinnia Lea Lelia Lydia Madeleine Marcella Marciana Mariana Marianne Martina Mella Monica Namadia Natalia Odilia Rosalia Savina Seraphina Serapia Sofia Teresa Valentina Valeria Veronica Victoria Yvette Zita
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