Obadiah Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Obadiah
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name OBADIAH. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Obadiah
Gender
Male
Origin
Hebrew
Lucky Number
4
Meaning of the Name
Obadiah is a Hebrew male name meaning 'servant of God' or 'worshipper of God.' It reflects a deep spiritual commitment and devotion to divine service.
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 Obadiah
Obadiah the Prophet
Biblical Prophet
Author of the Book of Obadiah, prophesying against Edom
Obadiah Holmes
Baptist Minister
Martyr for religious freedom in colonial America
Obadiah German
Politician
U.S. Senator and President pro tempore of the Senate
Obadiah Bruen Brown
Clergyman
Prominent Baptist pastor and House Chaplain
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Throughout Jewish history, the name has been associated with faithfulness and devotion, particularly during periods of persecution when maintaining religious identity was challenging. In Christian tradition, Obadiah is recognized as a saint in various denominations, and his prophecies are interpreted as foreshadowing Christ's message of justice and redemption. The name also appears in Islamic tradition as 'Ubadiah', though with different historical context. The enduring cultural significance of Obadiah lies in its embodiment of prophetic witness and unwavering commitment to divine service across multiple religious traditions.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Obadiah are often perceived as deeply principled, spiritually inclined, and possessing strong moral convictions. The biblical association with prophecy lends an air of wisdom and insightfulness to those bearing this name. They tend to be thoughtful, introspective individuals who value truth and justice above superficial concerns. Their strong sense of purpose often makes them natural leaders in spiritual or ethical matters, though they may sometimes come across as serious or intense.
The name's meaning—'servant of God'—suggests humility and dedication, qualities that often manifest in their personal and professional lives. They are typically reliable, trustworthy, and committed to their beliefs, sometimes to the point of stubbornness when their principles are challenged. While they may not be the most outgoing or socially flexible individuals, their depth of character and unwavering integrity earn them respect and admiration from those who know them well. Their combination of spiritual depth and practical wisdom often makes them excellent counselors or mentors who can provide guidance during difficult times.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Obadiah remains a relatively uncommon but respected name, primarily used within religious communities, particularly among conservative Christian and Jewish families. The name has never reached mainstream popularity, consistently ranking outside the top 1000 names in the United States, which preserves its distinctive and traditional character. Recent years have seen a slight resurgence of interest in biblical names, which may contribute to increased usage. The name is particularly popular in certain evangelical Christian circles and among families seeking names with strong religious significance. Its rarity makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a traditional biblical name that stands out from more common options like Joshua or Matthew. The nickname 'Obi' has gained some popularity, possibly influenced by the Star Wars character Obi-Wan Kenobi, making the name more accessible to modern sensibilities while maintaining its historical gravitas.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Obadiah represents devotion, prophecy, and spiritual service. The name carries connotations of divine messenger-ship, connecting the bearer to a tradition of speaking truth to power and upholding moral principles. It symbolizes the bridge between human concerns and divine will, embodying the idea of being an instrument of higher purpose. The name also represents resilience and faithfulness in adversity, as the biblical Obadiah delivered difficult messages during challenging times. In a broader sense, it symbolizes the tension between justice and mercy, judgment and redemption—themes central to the prophetic tradition. For modern bearers, the name can represent a commitment to ethical living and spiritual awareness, serving as a constant reminder of one's potential to be a force for good in the world. The symbolic weight of 'serving God' extends beyond religious contexts to encompass dedication to higher principles and the betterment of humanity through righteous action and moral courage.