Ever wonder what biblical name literally means “gift from God”? You’re not alone.
Lots of parents want their baby’s name to have a special meaning, especially one with religious significance.
If you’re looking for a biblical name that signifies a gift or blessing from the divine, you may already have some names in mind, like Matthew or Nathaniel.
But there’s another name from scripture that directly translates to “gift of God” that doesn’t get used as often today.
Keep reading to find out the name and the story behind its heavenly meaning.
You might be surprised which biblical figure bore this special moniker that would be perfect for your little blessing.
The Significance of Biblical Names
Names in the Bible often have important meanings.
For example, Isaac means “he laughs” because Abraham laughed when God told him he would have a son at the age of 100.
The name Isaac was prophetic of the joy his birth would bring.
Similarly, the name Ishmael means “God hears” because God heard Hagar’s affliction.
The angel told Hagar that her son’s name should be Ishmael, “because the Lord has heard of your misery”.
Names were a big deal in biblical times!
Another important name is Jesus, which means “the Lord saves”.
The angel told Joseph to name Mary’s son Jesus “for he will save his people from their sins.” The name Jesus was meant to signify his purpose and mission in life.
One of my favorite biblical names is Nathaniel, which means “gift of God”.
When Jesus saw Nathaniel under the fig tree, he declared, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.” Nathaniel was astounded that Jesus knew him, and Jesus replied, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.” Nathaniel recognized Jesus as the Son of God, exclaiming “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel!”
Biblical names often reflect God’s character or prophecy.
They signify the parents’ faith and hopes for their child.
The next time you meet someone with a biblical name like Elizabeth (“God is my oath”), consider asking them about the meaning and significance of their name.
You may gain new insights into their identity and purpose.
Popular Biblical Names Meaning “Gift”
Nathaniel
One of the most popular Biblical names meaning “gift of God” is Nathaniel.
In the Gospel of John, Nathaniel is portrayed as an apostle of Jesus.
The name Nathaniel comes from the Hebrew name Nethanel, meaning “God has given”.
Matthias
Another popular male Biblical name is Matthias, meaning “gift of God”.
Matthias was the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after Judas betrayed Jesus and committed suicide.
The name Matthias originates from the Hebrew name Mattithiah, meaning “gift of the Lord”.
Dorcas
A popular female Biblical name meaning “gift” is Dorcas.
Dorcas was a woman in Joppa, known for her good deeds and acts of charity.
When Dorcas died, the Apostle Peter raised her from the dead through prayer.
The name Dorcas comes from the Greek word dorkas, meaning “gazelle”.
Elisha
The prophet Elisha’s name means “God is salvation”.
After the prophet Elijah ascended to heaven, Elisha took over as the main prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel.
Elisha performed many miracles, including healing a Syrian commander of leprosy and feeding a hundred men with twenty loaves of barley bread.
As you can see, some of the most well-known Biblical figures had names directly relating to being a gift from God or the Lord.
These names highlight the belief that children are a gift and blessing from the divine.
The next time you’re looking for an uplifting Biblical name, consider one of these names that means “gift”.
Your little one will have big shoes to fill!
Obscure Biblical Names Meaning “Gift From God”
Jedidiah
One of the lesser-known biblical names meaning “gift from God” is Jedidiah.
According to 2 Samuel 12:25, the prophet Nathan gave this name to King David’s son Solomon.
The name Jedidiah combines the Hebrew words for “friend” (jedid) and “God” (Yah), translating to “friend of God.”
Dorcas
Another obscure biblical name for a “gift from God” is Dorcas.
In Acts 9:36, Dorcas is introduced as a female disciple who lived in Joppa.
Her name in the Greek translates to “gazelle” but in Hebrew it means “gift.” After Dorcas passed away, the apostle Peter raised her from the dead through prayer.
Zephaniah
The prophet Zephaniah, who authored the Old Testament book of Zephaniah, also had a name meaning “gift from God.” His name combines the Hebrew elements “God” (yah) and “treasured possession” or “hidden” (tsaphan), translating to “God’s hidden treasure.” During his ministry, Zephaniah prophesied God’s judgement on Judah for falling into idolatry and called the people to repentance.
Theodore
One biblical name more familiar to modern readers is Theodore.
In the New Testament, Theodore was an early Christian martyr mentioned in Acts 6:5.
His name is of Greek origin, combining the words for “God” (Theos) and “gift” (doron).
The name Theodore has endured for centuries and remains popular today, a lasting tribute to God’s gift.
While some of these names are more obscure, their meanings highlight an important biblical truth: that every life is a precious gift from God, no matter how hidden or treasured.
The Surprising Biblical Name Meaning “Gift From God”
The name Matthias, meaning “gift of God,” appears in the Bible as the disciple selected to replace Judas Iscariot after Judas betrayed Jesus and then committed suicide.
Though not one of the original 12 disciples, Matthias was welcomed into the fold after casting lots between him and another candidate, Barsabbas.
An Unlikely Choice
Matthias seemed an unlikely choice at first.
He had not accompanied Jesus and the other disciples from the beginning of Christ’s ministry.
Yet Matthias proved himself worthy of joining the 12 through his faith and devotion.
His selection illustrates how God can call upon anyone at any time to serve His purposes.
Despite Matthias’ late start, he embraced his calling wholeheartedly.
Steadfast Service
As an apostle, Matthias helped spread the Gospel message after Jesus’ ascension into heaven.
Along with the other disciples, he helped build the early Christian church through his preaching, teaching, and leadership.
Matthias remained faithful in his service to God and the church.
According to historical accounts, he suffered for his faith and was ultimately martyred for preaching the Gospel.
An Example of Faith
Though little is known about Matthias’ life, his selection as the 12th disciple stands as an example of faith and devotion.
When called upon suddenly to join the other apostles, Matthias readily accepted this responsibility.
He did not question why he had not been chosen originally.
Instead, he humbly served as an apostle, helping spread the message of Jesus and build up the new Christian church.
Matthias’ story reminds us that God can use anyone to fulfill His will.
Even those who seem unlikely candidates can become gifts, as Matthias’ name suggests.
Faith, devotion and a willingness to serve are what truly matter to God.
The biblical name Matthias will forever represent these eternal principles.
What Biblical Name Means “Gift From God”? FAQs
What name means “gift from God” in the Bible?
The name Matthias means “gift of God” in Greek.
In the Bible, Matthias was the apostle who replaced Judas Iscariot after Judas betrayed Jesus and committed suicide.
So quite literally, Matthias was a gift from God to make up the 12 apostles.
Are there any other names that mean “gift from God”?
Yes, there are several other names in the Bible that mean “divine gift” or “God’s gift”:
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The name Nathaniel means “God has given” in Hebrew.
Nathaniel was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples.
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The name Dorothy means “God’s gift” in Greek.
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The name Theodora also means “gift of God” in Greek.
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The name Jesse means “God exists” or “God’s gift” in Hebrew.
Jesse was the father of King David in the Old Testament.
What are some common names today that mean “gift from God”?
Some popular names today that mean “divine gift” or “God’s gift” include:
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Matthew – means “gift of God” in Hebrew.
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Theodore – means “gift of God” in Greek.
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Jonathan – means “God has given” in Hebrew.
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Asher – means “blessed, happy” in Hebrew, implying a divine gift.
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Bennett – derived from Benedict, means “blessed” in Latin.
Why were biblical names meaningful?
In biblical times, names were more than just a label.
Your name reflected your character or personality, or represented the family’s faith or life events.
Names were thoughtfully chosen to reflect dreams or hope for a child’s future, or to honor special circumstances or the Lord.
Having a meaningful, spiritual name was very important to people of faith, as it helped shape a child’s identity and connection to God from an early age.
So a name like “gift from God” would be a constant reminder of a loving God and a life dedicated to serving His purpose.
For believers, there could be no greater meaning or significance in a name.
