Yaakov Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Yaakov

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name YAAKOV. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Yaakov

Gender

Male

Origin

Hebrew

Lucky Number

Meaning of the Name

The name Yaakov means 'held by the heel' or 'supplanter' in Hebrew. It originates from the biblical story where Jacob was born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel.

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Jupiter

Positive Nature

Optimistic, inspirational, and creative.

Negative Traits

Scattered, exaggerating.

Lucky Colours

Yellow, gold, purple.

Lucky Days

Thursday.

Lucky Stones

Yellow sapphire.

Harmony Numbers

1, 2, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Arts, writing, communication.

What People Like About You

Creativity, optimism.

Famous People Named Yaakov

Yaakov Agam

Artist

Pioneer of kinetic art and optical art movements

Yaakov Litzman

Politician

Israeli Minister of Health and Deputy Minister of Housing

Yaakov Peri

Intelligence Officer

Former head of Shin Bet and Israeli Minister of Science

Yaakov Dori

Military Leader

First Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Jacob English Yakov Russian Jacques French Giacomo Italian Jaime Spanish Jakob German Yakub Arabic

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Yaakov holds profound cultural and historical significance as the original Hebrew name of the biblical patriarch Jacob, who became Israel - the progenitor of the Twelve Tribes and namesake of the Jewish people. The name's origin story in Genesis, where Jacob is born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel, establishes themes of destiny, supplanting, and the complex dynamics of birthright that would shape Jewish narrative tradition. Throughout Jewish history, Yaakov has served as a powerful symbol of the Jewish people's relationship with God, their struggles for identity, and their spiritual evolution. The name appears extensively in Jewish liturgy, rabbinic commentary, and cultural expressions, often representing the collective Jewish experience of wrestling with divine purpose while maintaining covenant faithfulness. In Jewish mystical tradition, Yaakov represents the concept of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and the idea that human effort and divine grace work in partnership to achieve redemption.

Extended Personality Analysis

People named Yaakov are typically characterized by a unique blend of determination, intellectual curiosity, and spiritual depth. They often exhibit the strategic thinking and perseverance associated with their biblical namesake, showing remarkable resilience in overcoming challenges. Many display a natural inclination toward leadership combined with practical wisdom, making them effective in positions requiring both vision and execution. There's frequently a contemplative quality to Yaakovs, who may engage in deep reflection about life's purpose and moral questions. They tend to value family and tradition highly while also being open to personal growth and transformation. The name often correlates with individuals who are loyal, resourceful, and capable of building strong, lasting relationships through consistent effort and genuine commitment. These personality traits reflect the journey of the biblical Jacob, who evolved from a clever youth to a wise patriarch through his life experiences and spiritual encounters.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary usage, Yaakov maintains strong popularity within Jewish communities worldwide, particularly among Orthodox and traditional families who value its deep biblical roots and historical significance. In Israel, the name has experienced consistent usage across generations, frequently appearing in the top 100 boys' names and reflecting the ongoing connection to Jewish heritage and identity. While the Anglicized form 'Jacob' dominates in English-speaking countries, the Hebrew original Yaakov remains preferred in religious contexts, Jewish day schools, and communities emphasizing Hebrew literacy. Recent decades have seen a modest resurgence of the name as younger generations rediscover traditional Hebrew names, though it faces competition from more modern Israeli names. The name's usage patterns demonstrate the balance between preserving cultural tradition and adapting to contemporary naming trends within Jewish diaspora communities.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Yaakov represents the profound concept of holding fast to destiny and persevering through adversity to achieve one's purpose. The imagery of grasping the heel at birth extends metaphorically to represent determination, the clever overcoming of obstacles, and the idea that apparent disadvantages can become sources of strength. The name embodies the journey of spiritual transformation, moving from worldly cunning to divine wisdom, as reflected in Jacob's evolution into Israel. It symbolizes the tension between human effort and divine providence, suggesting that true success comes from wrestling with both earthly and spiritual challenges. The name also carries connotations of covenant continuity, representing how individual struggles and triumphs contribute to the larger story of a people's destiny and relationship with the divine.

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