Judah

The name Judah originates from the Hebrew term Yehuda (יְהוּדָה), which means praise or thanksgiving. Its etymology traces back to the root Y-D-H (ידה), signifying to thank or to praise. Leah, Judah's mother, named him with the declaration, 'This time I will praise the Lord' (Genesis 29:35), reflecting her gratitude after giving birth to her fourth son. Beyond its literal meaning, the name carries profound theological weight as it symbolizes devotion and acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. Historically, Judah's name has become synonymous with leadership, lineage, and divine favor, particularly as the namesake of the Tribe of Judah and the Kingdom of Judah, both central to Israel's history and identity.