Zephaniah
Image of Zephaniah
Meaning and Origin
Zephaniah is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the root words 'tsaphan' (צָפַן), meaning 'to hide' or 'to treasure,' and 'Yah,' a shortened form of Yahweh, the name of God in Hebrew scripture. Thus, Zephaniah translates to 'Jehovah has hidden' or 'Treasured by God.' The name encapsulates themes of divine protection and concealment, suggesting a closeness to God and His care. Historically, the name reflects the deep spiritual connection and reliance on God's providence, which was a cornerstone of Hebrew faith and culture.
Image of Zephaniah
Name Zephaniah in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
Today, the name Zephaniah enjoys global recognition, found in 49 countries and particularly popular in Haiti, Tanzania, and Equatorial Guinea. Its enduring appeal lies in its profound spiritual meaning and biblical heritage, making it a favored choice among Christian communities worldwide. The name is also celebrated in religious calendars, such as the Armenian Apostolic Church and Eastern Orthodox traditions, which honor Zephaniah as a saint. Beyond its biblical roots, the name has inspired modern figures like Benjamin Zephaniah, a noted writer, showcasing its versatility and cultural resonance across different eras and contexts.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Haiti | Sophonie | 512 |
| Tanzania, United Republic of | Zephania | 542 |
| Equatorial Guinea | Sofonias | 850 |
| Lesotho | Sofonia | 1106 |
| Papua New Guinea | Zephaniah | 1170 |
| Liberia | Zephaniah | 1200 |
| Kenya | Zephaniah | 1205 |
| Zambia | Zephania | 2633 |
| Zimbabwe | Zephania | 2702 |
| South Africa | Zephania | 2851 |
| Madagascar | Zefania | 3189 |
| Indonesia | Zefanya | 3326 |
| Mexico | Sofonias | 3868 |
| Angola | Sofonias | 4097 |
| Ethiopia | Sofonias | 4213 |
Showing top 15 of 49 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
The name Zephaniah is imbued with significant spiritual weight, as evidenced by its Divine Proximity Index of 90.7/100 and Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100. These metrics highlight its strong association with God and the messianic themes present in scripture. Four notable figures in the Old Testament bear this name, each contributing to the rich tapestry of biblical history. Among them, Zephaniah the prophet stands out most prominently. Prophesying during the reign of King Josiah, he delivered messages of judgment and redemption, emphasizing the need for repentance and faithfulness to God. His writings, encapsulated in the Book of Zephaniah, offer a powerful vision of God's justice and mercy, resonating with themes of ultimate restoration and renewal for those who seek refuge in the Lord.
Biblical Context
The name Zephaniah appears in twelve biblical verses, showcasing its importance across various narratives. The prophet Zephaniah, son of Cushi, is best known for his contributions to the Twelve Minor Prophets, where he warns of the impending 'day of the Lord'—a time of judgment for Judah and Jerusalem due to their idolatry and moral corruption. Yet, his message is tempered with hope, promising redemption for the faithful who turn to God. Another notable Zephaniah is the priest, son of Maaseiah, who served during King Zedekiah's reign and acted as a liaison between the prophet Jeremiah and the king. Tragically, he was executed by the Babylonians after Jerusalem's fall. These narratives underscore Zephaniah's role as both a messenger of divine truth and a figure intertwined with pivotal moments in Israel's history.
Divine Proximity Metrics
God Proximity
SNA: 2.44 | Percentile: 90.68
Biblical References
- 1 Chronicles 6:36
- 2 Kings 25:18
- Jeremiah 29:29
- Zechariah 6:10
- Zephaniah 1:1