What Does the Name Moriah Mean?

Choosing a name for your child is a big decision, and many parents look for names with significant meanings or cultural significance. One name that has a rich history and meaning is Moriah. This biblical name has roots in the Hebrew language and has been used for centuries. In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of the name Moriah, as well as its popularity and variations.

The name Moriah is derived from the Hebrew word מֹרִיָּה (Moriyah), which means 'chosen by God' or 'seen by God.' The name is most famously associated with Mount Moriah, which is mentioned in the Bible as the site where Abraham was commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac. According to the Bible, God stopped Abraham from carrying out the sacrifice and provided a ram as a substitute. This event is seen as a test of Abraham's faith and obedience to God.

Mount Moriah is a significant location in the Bible, and the name Moriah is often associated with this site. In addition to the story of Abraham and Isaac, Mount Moriah is also the site where King David built an altar to God and where Solomon built the first Temple in Jerusalem. The Temple Mount, which is located on Mount Moriah, is considered one of the holiest sites in Judaism and is also significant in Christianity and Islam.

The name Moriah has been used for centuries, but it has never been a particularly popular name. According to the Social Security Administration, Moriah was not in the top 1000 names for girls in the United States in 2020. However, the name has seen some increased usage in recent years, possibly due to its biblical roots and unique sound. In 2020, there were 173 baby girls named Moriah in the United States.

There are several variations of the name Moriah, including Moria, Moriya, and Moriyah. These variations are often used interchangeably with Moriah and have similar meanings. In addition, the name Moriah can also be spelled with a double 'r' (Morriah) or a double 'a' (Moriaah).

While the name Moriah is not particularly common, there are several notable people who bear this name. One of the most famous is Moriah Peters, an American singer and songwriter who gained fame after appearing on the ninth season of American Idol. Peters has released several albums and is known for her Christian music. Another notable Moriah is Moriah Jefferson, an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Dallas Wings in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

The name Moriah has a rich history and meaning, with roots in the Bible and Hebrew language. While it has never been a particularly popular name, it has seen some increased usage in recent years. The name is often associated with Mount Moriah, a significant location in the Bible, and has several variations. Whether you choose Moriah for its biblical significance or unique sound, it is a name with a powerful meaning that is sure to make an impact.