Job
Job Receiving the Messengers, from "Dalziels' Bible Gallery";Camden Press|Scribner and Welford|Dalziel Brothers|William Small, 1843–1931
Meaning and Origin
The name Job originates from the Hebrew name 'Iyyov (אִיּוֹב), which is traditionally interpreted to mean hated or He Who Weeps. This name carries a somber but profound resonance, reflecting the themes of suffering and perseverance that are central to the biblical narrative of Job. The linguistic roots suggest a connection to deep emotional expression and adversity, which aligns with the character's experiences in the Bible. Historically, the name has been associated with both lamentation and spiritual triumph, making it a symbol of enduring faith amidst trials.
Job Receiving the Messengers, from "Dalziels' Bible Gallery";Camden Press|Scribner and Welford|Dalziel Brothers|William Small, 1843–1931
Name Job in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
The name Job has a significant global presence, being found in 140 countries and particularly popular in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Its cross-cultural appeal stems from its deep biblical roots and universal themes of perseverance and faith. In Christian-majority countries, the name often serves as a reminder of the virtues of patience and trust in God. In Islamic cultures, where Job is known as Ayub, the name is equally revered, symbolizing steadfastness and devotion to Allah. This widespread usage underscores the enduring relevance of Job's story and the values it represents, making it a timeless name that resonates with people of diverse backgrounds and faiths.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Morocco | Ayoub | 13 |
| Algeria | Ayoub | 55 |
| Tunisia | Ayoub | 94 |
| Nigeria | Ayuba | 115 |
| Libya | ايوب | 135 |
| Somalia | Ayub | 148 |
| Iran, Islamic Republic of | ايوب | 175 |
| Kenya | Job | 176 |
| Djibouti | Ayoub | 188 |
| Tanzania, United Republic of | Ayubu | 219 |
| Congo, The Democratic Republic of the | Job | 271 |
| Türkiye | Eyüp | 273 |
| Virgin Islands, British | Ayub | 288 |
| Yemen | ايوب | 290 |
| Sudan | ايوب | 312 |
Showing top 15 of 140 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
Job holds a unique place in biblical history and spirituality. Two figures in the Old Testament bear the name: the third son of Issachar, also known as Jashub, and the central figure of the Book of Job. The latter is celebrated for his unwavering faith and patience in the face of extreme suffering. With a Divine Proximity Index of 98.0/100 and a Jesus Circle Score of 96.5/100, Job's life and story are deeply intertwined with themes of divine justice and human perseverance. His narrative has inspired countless believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Job's story also transcends Christianity, as he is recognized as a prophet in Islam and a symbol of righteousness in Judaism, further emphasizing his spiritual significance across cultures and religions.
Biblical Context
The name Job appears prominently in the Bible, most notably in the Book of Job. This text recounts the story of a prosperous and righteous man from the land of Uz, who endures profound suffering as a test of his faith. Job loses his wealth, his children, and his health, yet he refuses to curse God, instead questioning and grappling with the nature of divine justice. His perseverance is commended in the New Testament (James 5:11), and he is later restored to greater prosperity than before. Additionally, Job's name is mentioned in Ezekiel (14:14, 16, 20) as an exemplar of righteousness. His story not only highlights the themes of faith and endurance but also serves as a profound exploration of human suffering and divine sovereignty.
Divine Proximity Metrics
God Proximity
SNA: 5.35 | Percentile: 97.99
Jesus Proximity
SNA: 2.3 | Percentile: 96.54
Biblical References
- Job 38:1
- Job 35:16
- Job 1:1
- Job 26:2
- Job 40:3