What Does the Name Eleazar Mean?

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision that can shape their identity and personality. Many parents look to biblical names for inspiration, and one name that has stood the test of time is Eleazar. This Hebrew name has a rich history and meaning that make it a popular choice for boys.

The name Eleazar is derived from the Hebrew name אֶלְעָזָר (El'azar), which means 'God has helped'. It is composed of two Hebrew words: אֵל (El), which means 'God', and עָזַר (azar), which means 'helped' or 'assisted'. The name appears in the Bible several times, most notably as the name of Aaron's third son and the high priest of Israel after Aaron's death.

The name Eleazar has a strong biblical significance, as it is associated with the priesthood and the lineage of Aaron. Eleazar was chosen by God to succeed his father Aaron as high priest, and he played a key role in the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. The name is also associated with the concept of divine assistance and protection, as it reflects the belief that God helps those who are faithful to him.

While the name Eleazar is not as common as some other biblical names, it has maintained a steady level of popularity over the years. According to the Social Security Administration, the name ranked #2,763 in popularity in 2020, with 26 baby boys given the name. It is more commonly used in Hispanic and Jewish communities, where it has a strong cultural and religious significance.

Like many biblical names, Eleazar has several variations and forms in different languages and cultures. In Spanish, the name is often spelled Eliezer, while in Russian it is spelled Eleazar or Eliazar. Other variations include Lazarus, which is derived from the Greek form of the name, and Elazarus, which combines the Hebrew and Greek forms. The name is also sometimes shortened to Eli or Laz.

There have been several notable people throughout history with the name Eleazar. In addition to the biblical figure, some of the most famous include: - Eleazar ben Judah of Worms, a medieval Jewish scholar and mystic - Eleazar Wheelock, an American Congregational minister and founder of Dartmouth College - Eleazar Sukenik, an Israeli archaeologist who discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls - Eleazar López Contreras, a former president of Venezuela These individuals have helped to keep the name Eleazar alive and relevant in modern times.

In conclusion, the name Eleazar has a rich history and meaning that make it a popular choice for parents looking for a biblical name with a strong cultural and religious significance. Whether you choose to spell it with an 'a' or an 'e', the name reflects the belief that God helps those who are faithful to him, and it has been associated with some of the most important figures in Jewish and Christian history. If you are considering the name Eleazar for your child, you can be sure that you are giving them a name with a powerful legacy and meaning.