In light of Passover, we started thinking about baby names that are inspired by, or come from, the holiday. Some of the names may be obvious in that they draw from the biblical figures from the Passover story itself, while others reflect the spring season. (If you want more inspiration, check out our Jewish baby name guide.)
These are our top favorites:
1. Moses/Moshe. Moses, which in Hebrew is Moshe, means “drawn out of water.” As you probably already know, Moses freed the Israelites from Egypt and led them through the wilderness. So, you know, Moses is kind of the perfect name for a baby boy born around Passover.
2. Aaron/Aharona. Aaron is a Hebrew name meaning “exalted” or “high mountain.” He was also Moses’ brother and a high priest. Together, they helped free the Israelites from Egypt–you know, NBD. I love this name, because it reminds us that being supportive is just as important as being a leader. If you want a female version, go with Aharona.
3. Miriam. Miriam is a Hebrew name meaning “rising water.” She was the sister of Moses and Aaron, who led the Israelite women in dance after crossing the Sea of Reeds. If you want to name your daughter after a strong woman, Miriam is definitely one of the great biblical figures and examples.
4. Shifra. Shifra is a girl’s name in Hebrew that means “beauty,” which is one of the best things you could name your child after, because beauty isn’t just physical, but truly manifested from within. She was also one of the midwives who defied Pharaoh’s decree by continuing to deliver and keep alive Hebrew baby boys in Egypt.
5. Batya. Batya is a Hebrew name meaning “daughter of God.” Batya was the Pharaoh’s daughter who saved Moses when she heard him cry by extending her arm. This exemplifies how a helping hand can go a long way.
6. Elisheva. Elisheva is a Hebrew name that means “God is my oath.” She was the wife of the high priest Aaron.
7. Aviva/Aviv. Aviva is a girl’s name in Hebrew, which means “spring,” while Aviv is the male version. Spring represents a time of a renewal and change–which is a perfect name for a baby and adult, as we are always transforming. For both boys and girls, both names can be shortened to Avi.
8. Dror. Dror is a Hebrew name for boys meaning “freedom,” which is what the Passover story is all about.
9. Shoshana. Shoshana is a beautiful Hebrew name meaning “rose” or “lily,” which are perfect names for spring, since this is when flowers begin to bloom after the long months of winter.
10. Raisel/Raisa. Like Shoshana, Raisel and Raisa are Yiddish girl names that means “rose.”
11. Vered/Varda. If you can’t get enough of Hebrew names that mean “rose,” you can also opt for Vered and Varda.
12. Ortal/Maytal. Ortal is a Hebrew name for girls that means “morning dew,” while Maytal means “dew drops,” which are gorgeous spring-inspired names.
Check out our baby name guide for more Jewish names.
The Passover seder is an adventure, not a chore — and Kveller’s new, family-friendly haggadah captures all the excitement, plus explains everything you need to know. Best of all? It’s free! Get it here.
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