Meaning of Elijah
From the Hebrew name ('Eliyyahu) meaning "my God is YAHWEH".
About the Name Elijah
Elijah is a full, melodic three-syllable masculine name of Hebrew origin, with roots in the ancient texts of the Old Testament and the rich tradition of biblical names that have crossed religious and cultural boundaries to become truly international. The name means "From the Hebrew name ('Eliyyahu) meaning "my God is YAHWEH".". It is a rare and considered boy name, chosen by parents who want something genuinely uncommon while remaining rooted in cultural heritage. "From the Hebrew name ('Eliyyahu) meaning "my God is YAHWEH"." in Hebrew carries a weight that the English translation can only approximate. These ancient names were carried by prophets, matriarchs, and kings - they have been in continuous use for over 3,000 years, a longevity that few naming traditions can match.
The practical question of how Elijah flows with the family surname is worth considering. The name is universally familiar across communities worldwide, easy to spell and pronounce, and carries natural authority in both formal and informal settings. Names that begin with a vowel like 'E' have an open, approachable quality that makes them easy to call across a playground or a boardroom - equally at home in both. Notable bearers of the name include Elijah Wood (Frodo in Lord of the Rings), Elijah (biblical prophet). If distinctiveness matters to you, Elijah delivers: your child is unlikely to share their name with classmates, while still carrying a name with real meaning.
Sound & Flow
Elijah is a 3-syllable name. Test it with your family surname to hear how it flows. For example: Tan Elijah, Lim Elijah, or Lee Elijah.
Cultural Context
Crosses cultural boundaries easily and is used across Chinese, Eurasian, and mixed-heritage families. Works well with both English and Chinese surnames.
Name Style & Tags
Popularity Through History
See all-time rankings →Rank in California top 25 (1 = most popular). Bars represent years the name charted - Hover for rank.
Name Facts & Trivia
Famous People Named Elijah
Prominent figures who share this name - Drawn from global culture, sports, and public life.
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