Named by God

Jehonathan

Meaning and Origin

The name Jehonathan originates from the Hebrew language, combining 'Jehovah' (a sacred name for God) and 'Nathan', which means 'hath given.' Together, the name translates to 'Jehovah hath given,' reflecting a profound sense of divine generosity and provision. This etymology underscores the ancient Hebrew tradition of embedding theological significance into personal names, often serving as a testament to God's blessings or covenantal relationship with His people. Historically, such names were not merely identifiers but declarations of faith and acknowledgment of divine activity in daily life.

Name Jehonathan in languages of the Bible

Jehonathan in languages of the Bible

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Popularity Analysis

Today, the name Jehonathan is found in at least 15 countries, with notable popularity in Norway, Oman, and Nicaragua. Its global presence reflects the enduring appeal of biblical names, which often transcend cultural and linguistic barriers due to their spiritual significance. In Norway, the name may resonate with the country's Christian heritage, while in Oman, it could reflect the broader influence of Abrahamic traditions. In Nicaragua, where Christianity is deeply rooted, biblical names like Jehonathan remain a popular choice, symbolizing faith and divine blessing.

CountryVariantRank
NorwayJehonathan16207
Omanيحيون23640
NicaraguaJehonatan39864
MexicoJehonatan62917
Costa RicaJehonatan113161
United StatesJehonathan143583
IsraelJehonatan181944
CanadaJehonathan181979
BrazilJehonathan311894
Russian FederationИонафан377239
PhilippinesJehonathan401796
Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic ofJehonathan602258
South AfricaJehonathan889902
NigeriaJehonathan952482
PeruJehonatan3002506

Showing top 15 of 15 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

Jehonathan is associated with three distinct individuals in the Old Testament, each of whom played a role in advancing God's purposes. The Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 reflects the name's strong association with God's work through these figures. Most notably, Jehonathan, the son of Uzziah, served as the overseer of King David's storehouses (1 Chron. 27:25), a position of trust and stewardship over the nation's resources. This role symbolized faithfulness and responsibility in managing God's blessings for the community. Another Jehonathan, a Levite appointed by King Jehoshaphat, was tasked with teaching the law of the Lord throughout Judah (2 Chron. 17:8). His mission highlights the spiritual significance of the name as one entrusted with spreading divine wisdom and upholding God's covenant. Finally, a third Jehonathan, a priest of the family of Shemaiah (Neh. 12:18), carried on the priestly tradition, tying the name to the sacred lineage of Aaron.

Biblical Context

Jehonathan appears in three key biblical passages, each showcasing a unique aspect of his role in God's narrative. In 1 Chronicles 27:25, Jehonathan, son of Uzziah, is noted as an overseer of King David's storehouses, emphasizing the importance of stewardship in Israel's monarchy. This role was not merely administrative but deeply spiritual, as it involved managing resources dedicated to God's people. In 2 Chronicles 17:8, Jehonathan, the Levite, was sent by King Jehoshaphat to teach the law of the Lord throughout Judah. This act was part of a larger mission to restore spiritual fidelity among the people, underscoring the Levite's role as a guardian of divine knowledge. Finally, in Nehemiah 12:18, Jehonathan is listed among the priests of the family of Shemaiah, a lineage tracing back to Aaron, the first high priest. This connection ties the name to the priestly tradition of intercession and worship, reinforcing its sacred connotations.

Divine Proximity Metrics

Biblical References

  • 2 Chronicles 17:8
  • Nehemiah 12:18
  • 1 Chronicles 27:25
Jehonathan | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God