Named by God

Tohu

Meaning and Origin

The name Tohu carries the meaning of lowly, reflecting a sense of humility or insignificance often valued in a spiritual sense within biblical contexts. Linguistically, the name originates from Hebrew, where it is closely tied to words connoting emptiness or formlessness, as seen in the term tohu wa-bohu in Genesis 1:2, which describes the earth before creation. Historically, the name Tohu has been associated with individuals of quiet but significant roles, emphasizing humility as a virtue.

Image of Tohu

Image of Tohu

Name Tohu in languages of the Bible

Tohu in languages of the Bible

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Popularity Analysis

Today, the name Tohu is found in 54 countries, with its popularity being highest in Malaysia, Myanmar, and Taiwan (Province of China). This global presence highlights the enduring influence of biblical names, even those with less prominent roles in scripture. In these regions, the name may be used both for its biblical heritage and its unique phonetic qualities. The universality of Tohu’s message—humility and preparation for greatness—resonates across diverse cultures, making it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with spiritual depth.

CountryVariantRank
MalaysiaToo350
MyanmarToo803
Taiwan, Province of ChinaToo1303
JapanToju1583
TogoTokou2435
Côte d'IvoireTokou2551
BeninTokou2933
Viet NamThau3232
Brunei DarussalamToo3975
SingaporeToo4562
EstoniaTohu4808
IsraelTov5108
EgyptToo5191
GhanaToo5415
Hong KongToo5894

Showing top 15 of 54 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

In the Bible, Tohu is recognized primarily as an ancestor of the prophet Samuel, one of the most influential figures in Israel's history. His connection to Samuel elevates the name's spiritual significance, as it places Tohu within a lineage instrumental in shaping Israel's monarchy and spiritual direction. The Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 highlights Tohu's association with God's work indirectly through his descendants, while the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underscores the prophetic legacy leading to Jesus’ line of spiritual teaching and authority. Though not a central biblical figure, Tohu's role as a forefather of Samuel subtly underscores the importance of seemingly minor figures in God's overarching plan.

Biblical Context

The name Tohu appears in 1 Samuel 1:1, where he is listed in the genealogy of Elkanah, Samuel's father. This genealogical record emphasizes the importance of ancestry and spiritual heritage in biblical narratives. Tohu's inclusion in this lineage highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within God's plan, as his role as an ancestor of Samuel links him to pivotal moments in Israelite history, such as the anointing of King David. Although there are only three verses that reference Tohu, his presence in these passages serves as a bridge connecting generations of faithful servants to God's unfolding story.

Divine Proximity Metrics

Biblical References

  • 1 Samuel 1:1
  • 1 Chronicles 6:34
  • 1 Chronicles 6:26
Tohu | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God