Judah Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Judah
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name JUDAH. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Judah
Gender
Male
Origin
Hebrew
Lucky Number
8
Meaning of the Name
Judah means 'the praised one' or 'celebrated' in Hebrew. It carries connotations of gratitude and acknowledgment, reflecting its biblical origins as a name given in thankfulness.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Saturn
Positive Nature
Ambitious, efficient, realistic, and authoritative.
Negative Traits
Materialistic, stressed, confrontational, and can be overly ambitious.
Lucky Colours
Dark blue, black.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire, amethyst.
Harmony Numbers
2, 4, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Business leaders, managers, financial services, law enforcement.
What People Like About You
Leadership, determination, organizational skills.
Famous People Named Judah
Judah the Maccabee
Jewish Priest and Military Leader
Led the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire and rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem
Judah Halevi
Physician, Poet, Philosopher
One of the greatest Hebrew poets and author of 'The Kuzari,' a philosophical defense of Judaism
Judah P. Benjamin
Lawyer, Politician
Served as Attorney General, Secretary of War, and Secretary of State for the Confederate States of America
Judah Friedlander
Actor, Comedian
Known for his role as Frank Rossitano on '30 Rock' and his distinctive trucker hat collection
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The cultural impact of Judah extends beyond religious boundaries into literature, art, and political discourse. The lion as a symbol of Judah appears in heraldry, particularly in the Lion of Judah emblem used in Ethiopian royalty and Rastafarian symbolism. The Maccabean revolt led by Judah Maccabee established the Hasmonean dynasty and inspired the celebration of Hanukkah. In modern times, the name continues to carry weight in Jewish communities as both a connection to ancestral roots and a statement of cultural pride, while also appealing to non-Jewish parents drawn to its strong biblical heritage and meaningful symbolism.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Judah are often perceived as natural leaders with strong charismatic qualities and inherent authority. They tend to possess a blend of confidence and responsibility, often taking charge in group situations and demonstrating reliability in challenging circumstances. Historically associated with the biblical Judah who showed protective leadership over his brother Joseph and later took responsibility for Benjamin, modern bearers of the name often exhibit similar protective instincts toward family and community. There's frequently a spiritual or philosophical depth to those named Judah, combined with practical wisdom that enables them to navigate complex situations.
Beyond leadership qualities, Judahs typically display a combination of strength and sensitivity. They often have a strong moral compass and sense of justice, coupled with the courage to stand up for their beliefs. The name carries expectations of integrity and honor, influenced by the biblical narrative where Judah demonstrates personal growth from questionable actions to becoming a responsible leader. Many Judahs develop a contemplative nature, balancing action with reflection, and often serve as mediators or advisors in their social circles. Their personality often reflects the name's meaning of 'praise,' as they tend to appreciate beauty, art, and meaningful expression while maintaining the practical groundedness necessary for effective leadership.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Judah has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity, particularly among Jewish families seeking to honor their heritage and among Christians drawn to its biblical significance. The name has climbed steadily in popularity charts in English-speaking countries, ranking within the top 300 boys' names in the United States in recent years and showing consistent growth in the UK, Canada, and Australia. Its appeal crosses religious boundaries, attracting parents who appreciate its strong, traditional sound and meaningful history without being overtly religious. The name maintains particular strength in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, where the Hebrew form 'Yehuda' is commonly used, and it frequently appears in Orthodox and Conservative Jewish families as both a first name and honor name. Modern usage often pairs Judah with more contemporary middle names, creating a balance between tradition and modernity that appeals to today's parents seeking meaningful yet accessible names for their children.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Judah represents leadership, praise, and spiritual inheritance across multiple cultural and religious contexts. The lion serves as the primary symbol of Judah, derived from Jacob's blessing that 'Judah is a lion's whelp,' representing courage, royalty, and majestic strength in the face of adversity. This lion symbolism extends to the powerful concept of the 'Lion of Judah,' which in Jewish tradition represents the Messianic hope and the enduring strength of the Jewish people, while in Christian tradition it symbolizes Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of prophetic kingship. The name also carries deep connotations of praise and gratitude, as its etymological root relates to giving thanks and acknowledgment of divine blessings. Symbolically, Judah embodies the transformative journey from imperfection to redemption, referencing both the biblical figure's personal growth from his involvement in Joseph's sale to his protective leadership, and the historical tribe's resilience through exile, persecution, and ultimate spiritual significance in Abrahamic traditions.