Named by God

Ner

Meaning and Origin

The name Ner is of Hebrew origin and carries the meaning of "light." This etymology aligns with its linguistic roots in the Hebrew language, where the word "ner" (נֵר) directly translates to a lamp or source of illumination. The imagery of light is deeply symbolic in biblical literature, often representing divine presence, guidance, and spiritual revelation. As such, the name Ner encapsulates both a literal and metaphorical sense of enlightenment and proximity to God.

Image of Ner

Image of Ner

Name Ner in languages of the Bible

Ner in languages of the Bible

Hover or touch to magnify

Popularity Analysis

The name Ner has transcended its biblical origins to achieve a modest yet notable global presence. Found in 101 countries, it is most popular in Georgia, Bulgaria, and San Marino. This widespread usage reflects the enduring appeal of biblical names, particularly those with profound spiritual meanings. In these countries, the name may be cherished not only for its biblical associations but also for its succinct and meaningful nature.

CountryVariantRank
GeorgiaNeli69
BulgariaNeli263
San MarinoNeri368
SloveniaNeli579
CroatiaNera597
BrazilNeli775
GuamNeri823
ArgentinaNeli826
Iran, Islamic Republic ofنير966
RomaniaNeli974
BelizeNeri994
AlbaniaNeri1002
Moldova, Republic ofNeli1011
HondurasNeri1040
MexicoNeri1045

Showing top 15 of 101 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

In the Bible, Ner is a significant figure within the lineage of the tribe of Benjamin. He is identified as the grandfather of King Saul, Israel's first monarch, and the father of Abner, a prominent military commander (1 Samuel 14:50; 1 Chronicles 8:33). These familial ties place Ner at the heart of Israel's early monarchy, underscoring his importance in the foundational narratives of the nation's governance. With a Divine Proximity Index of 85.0/100, the name Ner reflects a strong association with God's providential workings in scripture, particularly through the rise of Saul as king.

Biblical Context

The name Ner appears in 16 biblical verses, primarily within genealogical and historical contexts. In 1 Samuel 14:50 and 1 Chronicles 8:33, Ner is described as the father of Abner and the grandfather of King Saul. These references situate him within the tribe of Benjamin, a pivotal tribe in Israel’s history. His familial connections to Saul and Abner emphasize his role as a progenitor of key leaders, underscoring the divine orchestration in Israel's early monarchy.

Divine Proximity Metrics

God Proximity

SNA: 1.55 | Percentile: 84.99

Biblical References

  • 2 Samuel 2:12
  • 2 Samuel 3:23
  • 1 Samuel 26:5
  • 1 Chronicles 9:36
  • 2 Samuel 3:28
Ner | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God