Yakov Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Yakov
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name YAKOV. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Yakov
Gender
Male
Origin
Hebrew
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Yakov means 'supplanter' or 'one who follows,' derived from the Hebrew tradition. It carries the symbolic meaning of someone who replaces or follows in footsteps, reflecting persistence and transformation.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Yakov
Yakov Sverdlov
Revolutionary and Politician
Key Bolshevik leader and first Chairman of the Russian Soviet Republic
Yakov Agranov
Soviet Security Officer
Head of NKVD and organizer of major political trials during Stalin's purges
Yakov Zeldovich
Physicist
Pioneering contributions to nuclear physics, astrophysics, and cosmology
Yakov Kreizberg
Conductor
Internationally renowned orchestral conductor and music director
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
In Russian and Eastern European cultures, Yakov became particularly prominent due to its biblical roots and the strong Christian traditions in these regions. During the Soviet era, the name maintained its popularity despite anti-religious policies, demonstrating its cultural resilience. The name appears frequently in Russian literature and folklore, often representing characters with strong will, traditional values, and deep spiritual connections. Its usage across different historical periods reflects the complex interplay between religious tradition and cultural identity in Slavic societies.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Yakov are often perceived as possessing strong leadership qualities, determination, and resilience. The name's meaning of 'supplanter' suggests someone who is strategic, persistent, and capable of overcoming obstacles through careful planning and unwavering commitment. They tend to be deeply principled individuals who value tradition and family heritage, often displaying a strong sense of responsibility toward their community and loved ones.
Yakovs are typically characterized by their intellectual depth and spiritual awareness. Many exhibit a contemplative nature, combined with practical wisdom that enables them to navigate complex situations effectively. They often demonstrate loyalty in relationships and maintain strong moral compasses, though they can be stubborn when their core values are challenged. The combination of traditional grounding with modern adaptability makes them respected figures in both personal and professional spheres, capable of bridging generational and cultural divides.
Modern Usage & Popularity
Yakov remains a popular name in Russian-speaking communities and among Jewish families worldwide, though its usage has evolved with changing cultural trends. In Israel, the Hebrew form Yaakov consistently ranks among the top 50 boys' names, reflecting its enduring religious and cultural significance. In Western countries, Yakov is less common than its English equivalent Jacob but maintains a presence in Orthodox Jewish and Russian immigrant communities. The name has experienced a modest revival in recent years as parents seek traditional names with deep historical roots and spiritual meaning. Its cross-cultural appeal makes it a bridge between Eastern European, Jewish, and Western naming traditions.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Yakov represents the journey of spiritual transformation and the struggle for identity. The biblical story of Jacob wrestling with the angel symbolizes the human struggle with divine purpose and the transformation that comes through perseverance. The name embodies the concept of 'holding the heel' – suggesting both persistence and the idea of following in footsteps while creating one's own path. It represents the tension between tradition and innovation, between receiving inheritance and earning one's place through struggle. The name carries connotations of covenant, blessing, and the complex relationship between human ambition and divine will, making it rich with metaphorical significance about personal growth and spiritual development.