Named by God

Maacah

Meaning and Origin

The name Maacah, derived from the Hebrew root maʿak (מָעַךְ), means 'oppression' or 'to press down.' Its etymology suggests a sense of subjugation or burden, which could metaphorically reflect the struggles or challenges faced by individuals or groups associated with this name in biblical contexts. The name was used for both men and women, as well as a geographical region, showcasing its versatility and significance in ancient Hebrew culture.

Image of Maacah

Image of Maacah

Name Maacah in languages of the Bible

Maacah in languages of the Bible

Hover or touch to magnify

Popularity Analysis

The name Maacah, while rooted in ancient Hebrew culture, has a global presence today, being found in 104 countries. It is most popular in regions like Georgia, Lebanon, and Kuwait, reflecting its enduring appeal in areas with strong biblical or Semitic cultural influences. The name's historical and spiritual significance likely contributes to its continued use, particularly among communities with a deep appreciation for biblical heritage.

In modern times, Maacah is often chosen for its rich biblical associations and its unique phonetic qualities. The name's connection to figures like King David and its role in the lineage of Jesus make it a meaningful choice for Christian families. Additionally, its use as both a personal name and a geographical designation highlights its versatility and timeless appeal.

The global distribution of Maacah demonstrates the widespread influence of biblical names and their ability to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries. Its presence in diverse contexts underscores the universal resonance of the stories and values associated with the name.

CountryVariantRank
GeorgiaMaka71
LebanonMaha101
KuwaitMaha102
QatarMaha110
Saudi ArabiaMaha117
Syrian Arab RepublicMaha124
EgyptMaha128
United Arab EmiratesMaha153
TunisiaMaha186
BahrainMaha215
SudanMaha280
OmanMaha306
JordanMaha320
MoroccoMaha362
LibyaMaha622

Showing top 15 of 104 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

Maacah holds a unique position in biblical history, appearing both as a personal name for multiple figures and as the name of an Aramean kingdom. The Divine Proximity Index of 80.8/100 suggests a moderate association with God, as seen through the roles of individuals like Maacah, the wife of King David, and the mother of Absalom. Her connection to King David places her within the lineage leading to Jesus, giving her a high Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100. This score underscores the name's indirect but significant contribution to the messianic narrative.

The spiritual significance of Maacah is multifaceted. For instance, Maacah, the wife of Rehoboam and mother of Abijah, illustrates the tension between idolatry and faithfulness to God. Her removal from power by her grandson King Asa, due to her promotion of idol worship, serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of leading others astray. Meanwhile, Maacah as a kingdom plays a pivotal role in the geopolitical landscape of the Old Testament, contributing to the narrative of David's military campaigns.

Biblical Context

The name Maacah appears in 26 verses across the Bible, associated with six women, three men, and a kingdom. One notable figure is Maacah, the wife of King David and mother of Absalom and Tamar (2 Samuel 3:3). Her story is intertwined with themes of familial conflict and tragedy, as seen in Absalom's rebellion and Tamar's suffering. Another prominent Maacah is the wife of Rehoboam, who played a significant role in the royal lineage of Judah but faced consequences for her idolatrous practices (1 Kings 15:2, 2 Chronicles 15:16).

The kingdom of Maacah, mentioned in 2 Samuel 10:6, 8, and 1 Chronicles 19:6–7, highlights the political dynamics of the ancient Near East. This Aramean region allied with the Ammonites against King David, emphasizing the geopolitical challenges faced by Israel. Additionally, men named Maacah, such as the father of Hanan (one of David's mighty men) and the father of Shephatiah (a ruler of the Simeonites), underscore the name's prevalence among various tribes and roles within Israel.

Through its appearances in scripture, Maacah serves as a lens through which to explore themes of loyalty, rebellion, and divine justice. Whether as individuals or as a kingdom, those bearing the name are often depicted in complex and morally significant narratives.

Divine Proximity Metrics

God Proximity

SNA: 1.09 | Percentile: 80.8

Biblical References

  • 1 Chronicles 3:2
  • 1 Kings 15:2
  • 1 Kings 15:10
  • 2 Chronicles 11:20
  • 2 Samuel 10:6
Maacah | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God