Manasseh

Manasseh, a name of Hebrew origin, carries a profound meaning: 'causing to forget.' Its linguistic roots trace back to the Hebrew verb 'nasha,' meaning 'to forget,' reflecting themes of release and emotional healing. This etymology is deeply tied to its first biblical appearance, where Joseph names his firstborn son Manasseh as an expression of gratitude to God for allowing him to forget the hardships of his past (Genesis 41:51). The name encapsulates a sense of divine intervention in the process of overcoming adversity and moving forward. Historically, it has been a symbol of renewal and the ability to let go of pain, resonating with both ancient and modern audiences as a name of spiritual and emotional depth.

, "SIGNIFICANCE_SECTION_START": "The name Manasseh is rich with spiritual significance, appearing prominently in the lives of key biblical figures. Among them, Joseph’s firstborn son, Manasseh, stands as a testament to the healing power of God, symbolizing Joseph’s ability to forget his suffering and embrace blessings. The Divine Proximity Index of 98.2/100 underscores the name’s strong association with God’s providence, while the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its connection to the lineage of Christ. Conversely, King Manasseh of Judah represents a cautionary tale of moral failure and redemption; his reign was marked by idolatry and evil, yet his eventual repentance demonstrates the boundless mercy of God. These dual narratives reflect the name's capacity to embody both human frailty and divine grace, making it a poignant symbol in Christian theology.

, "BIBLICAL_CONTEXT_SECTION_START": "The name Manasseh appears in 122 verses across the Old Testament, signifying its importance in biblical history. Its most notable bearers include Joseph's firstborn son, who was adopted by Jacob and became the patriarch of the Tribe of Manasseh, and King Manasseh of Judah, whose reign was marked by extreme idolatry and a dramatic return to worshiping Yahweh after repentance. The tribe named after Manasseh plays a significant role in the territorial and spiritual narrative of Israel, symbolizing the dual heritage of Hebrew and Egyptian cultures through Joseph's lineage. Additionally, the name is associated with various individuals in post-exilic contexts, such as descendants who divorced pagan wives to return to covenantal purity (Ezra 10:30, 33). These appearances illustrate the name's thematic ties to identity, repentance, and divine inheritance, making it a recurring motif in scripture.