Monday, May 5, 2008

Biblical Trends in Baby Boy Names

Biblical Trends in Baby Boy Names




A survey of the most popular baby boy names for the year 2006 and 2007 seem to imply a growing trend in using baby boy names with biblical origins. The census does not ask people about the reason for choosing the names, but the results are telling, to say the least. The top ranking result in the most popular baby boy names is “Jacob”, a name that seems to share its origins with the famous figure from the genesis chapters of the bible.

The 2nd most popular baby boy name is Michael, which could have come from the biblical archangel or from various celebrities and pop culture icons who may have gotten their names from the archangel as well.

The 3rd spot on the most popular boy names is for Joshua, whose origins probably came from the biblical figure who was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to reconnoiter the land of Canaan, and who eventually became his successor.

There’s a lull in the pattern for number four but goes back to the biblical pattern for number 5, a spot occupied by Matthew, after the biblical author, immediately followed by Daniel, a prophet mentioned in the bible. The top baby boy names will continue its biblical naming pattern from number 11 onwards with names such as Joseph, David, Noah, James, John, Gabriel, Elijah, etc. The results for the 2008 census are not yet publicized but after two years in a row, it’s hard not to expect a continuation of biblical naming trends.

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