Gedalya Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Gedalya
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name GEDALYA. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Gedalya
Gender
Male
Origin
Hebrew
Lucky Number
1
Meaning of the Name
Gedalya is a Hebrew male name meaning 'God has made great.' It reflects the belief that true greatness and accomplishment come from divine blessing and intervention.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Sun
Positive Nature
Leaders, ambitious, highly driven, self-reliant, innovative.
Negative Traits
Overly aggressive, domineering, impatient, selfish.
Lucky Colours
Red, orange, gold.
Lucky Days
Sunday.
Lucky Stones
Ruby, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Entrepreneurs, managers, engineers.
What People Like About You
Courage, determination, leadership.
Famous People Named Gedalya
Gedaliah ben Ahikam
Biblical Governor
Appointed governor of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar after the destruction of the First Temple
Gedalya Silverstone
Rabbi and Author
Prominent Orthodox rabbi in America and author of numerous religious works
Gedalya Bublick
Journalist and Editor
Editor of the Yiddish newspaper Der Morgen Zhurnal and influential Jewish community leader
Gedalya Nigal
Scholar and Researcher
Leading researcher of Jewish folklore and Hasidic tales at Bar-Ilan University
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name has been preserved through centuries of Jewish diaspora as a reminder of this critical historical juncture and as an expression of faith in divine greatness despite adversity. In traditional Jewish communities, the name carries connotations of leadership, faithfulness, and the complex relationship between divine providence and human agency in Jewish history. The continued use of this name serves as a living connection to one of the most transformative periods in Jewish history, maintaining cultural memory across generations.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Gedalya are often perceived as possessing strong leadership qualities combined with deep spiritual conviction. They tend to be thoughtful, principled individuals who approach challenges with both practical wisdom and moral clarity. The historical associations of the name suggest someone who carries responsibilities seriously and maintains composure under pressure, much like the biblical governor who attempted to rebuild a shattered community.
Gedalyas are typically seen as bridge-builders who seek to unite people and find common ground, though they may also face challenges when navigating complex social or political situations. Their inherent sense of duty and commitment to their values often makes them reliable and trustworthy figures in their communities. However, they may sometimes struggle with the weight of expectations that come with such a historically significant name, balancing personal aspirations with the legacy embedded in their name.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Gedalya remains primarily used within traditional Jewish communities, particularly among Orthodox and Haredi families who value its deep historical and religious significance. The name has maintained consistent but modest usage, never reaching mainstream popularity but remaining a respected choice for parents seeking a name with strong biblical roots. It's most commonly found in Israel and Jewish diaspora communities, where it serves as a connection to Jewish history and tradition. While not among the most popular Hebrew names today, its usage has remained stable, often chosen by families with particular appreciation for biblical history or those wishing to honor ancestors who bore the name. The name's association with the Fast of Gedaliah ensures its continued recognition within Jewish religious and cultural contexts.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Gedalya symbolizes the complex interplay between divine intervention and human responsibility in Jewish thought. The name represents the idea that greatness comes from God ('God has made great'), serving as a reminder that human achievements ultimately derive from divine grace. Symbolically, it embodies the concept of leadership during times of crisis and the difficult balance between practical governance and spiritual integrity. The name also carries connotations of resilience and the ability to find hope and purpose even in the aftermath of destruction and exile. As a symbolic representation, Gedalya speaks to the Jewish experience of maintaining faith and community structure despite external pressures and historical tragedies, making it a name that encapsulates both spiritual depth and historical consciousness.