Gershom Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Gershom
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name GERSHOM. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Gershom
Gender
Male
Origin
Hebrew
Lucky Number
4
Meaning of the Name
Gershom is a Hebrew male name meaning 'exiled' or 'a stranger there.' It originates from the biblical story where Moses named his son Gershom to commemorate his status as a foreigner in Midian.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Uranus (Rahu)
Positive Nature
Strong sense of order, loyal, practical, and disciplined.
Negative Traits
Stubborn, overly serious, rigid, and prone to feeling restricted.
Lucky Colours
Blue, gray.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire.
Harmony Numbers
1, 7, 8.
Best Suited Professions
Managers, engineers, accountants, organizers.
What People Like About You
Dependability, discipline, practicality.
Famous People Named Gershom
Gershom ben Judah
Rabbi and Talmudic scholar
Leading authority of Ashkenazi Jewry, established important rabbinical decrees
Gershom Mendes Seixas
Religious leader
First native-born American Jewish religious leader
Gershom Scholem
Historian and philosopher
Founder of modern academic study of Kabbalah
Gershom Gorenberg
Journalist and historian
Israeli-American journalist specializing in Middle Eastern politics
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's cultural significance extends beyond its biblical origins to represent the Jewish experience of diaspora itself. For centuries, Gershom has symbolized the resilience of Jewish identity maintained through periods of displacement and persecution. The most famous bearer, Rabbeinu Gershom, earned his title 'Light of the Exile' precisely because he illuminated Jewish law and life during the challenging circumstances of diaspora existence. This dual meaning—both the personal exile of Moses and the collective exile of the Jewish people—makes Gershom a name rich with historical depth and cultural memory. It serves as a reminder that periods of displacement, while difficult, can also be times of profound spiritual and intellectual growth.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Gershom are often perceived as thoughtful, introspective, and possessing a strong sense of identity shaped by understanding what it means to be 'different' or outside mainstream circles. The name's meaning of 'exile' or 'stranger' tends to manifest in personality as someone who is observant, analytical, and capable of seeing situations from multiple perspectives. They often develop resilience and adaptability from early experiences of feeling like an outsider, which can translate into strong problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence. Many Gershoms exhibit scholarly tendencies, with a natural curiosity about history, tradition, and the deeper meanings behind surface appearances.
This combination of depth, resilience, and intellectual curiosity makes them natural leaders in academic, religious, or cultural spheres. They tend to be loyal to their principles while remaining open to new ideas, often serving as bridges between different communities or ways of thinking. The historical weight of the name can inspire a sense of responsibility to preserve and transmit knowledge, much like the great rabbis who bore the name before them. At their best, Gershoms embody the wisdom that comes from understanding multiple perspectives—the insight of someone who has learned to thrive while navigating between worlds. They often possess a quiet strength and determination that serves them well in overcoming challenges, reflecting the name's origins in Moses' own journey from prince to shepherd to liberator.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Gershom remains primarily used within Jewish communities, particularly among those with strong connections to tradition and biblical heritage. The name has never reached widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, maintaining its status as a distinctive and meaningful choice rather than a trendy one. In Israel, the variant 'Gershon' is more commonly used, while 'Gershom' retains its classical biblical form. The name appeals to parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and theological significance, often chosen by those who value the story of Moses and the themes of resilience and adaptation that the name represents. While not among the most popular Jewish names today, it continues to be used steadily, particularly in Orthodox and Conservative Jewish communities where biblical names remain important. Recent years have seen a slight increase in usage among parents interested in unique biblical names with strong stories behind them.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Gershom represents the universal human experience of being an outsider or stranger while simultaneously finding strength and purpose in that position. The name embodies the paradox of exile as both displacement and opportunity—the biblical Gershom was born during Moses' flight from Egypt, yet this period of exile ultimately prepared Moses for his destiny as liberator. Thus, the name carries connotations of transformation through difficulty, the wisdom gained from crossing boundaries, and the ability to maintain identity while adapting to new circumstances. It symbolizes the idea that true understanding often comes from standing at the margins rather than the center, and that the most profound insights can emerge from experiences of dislocation and cultural crossing. The name serves as a reminder that our most challenging experiences can become sources of unique perspective and strength.