All about the name

Shemaiah

Female

« Shemaiah is a Hebrew male given name derived from "shama," meaning "to hear" or "listen." It has historical significance as it was borne by one of the chief priests during King Manasseh's reign in Jerusalem, and it remains popular among Jewish communities today despite being relatively uncommon outside of these circles. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Shemaiah is a unique and distinctive male given name of Hebrew origin. The name Shemaiah is derived from the Hebrew word "shama," which means "to hear" or "listen." It is often associated with the idea of obedience and attentiveness. In the Bible, Shemaiah is mentioned as one of the chief priests during the reign of King Manasseh in Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 34:12). He was a prominent figure who played a significant role in the religious life of the kingdom. This historical context has contributed to the name's enduring appeal among people of Jewish faith and those interested in biblical history. Throughout history, Shemaiah has been a popular name among Jewish communities around the world. It is often given to boys born into religious families or on significant occasions such as the Passover holiday or other celebrations of the Jewish calendar. Despite its historical and cultural significance, Shemaiah remains relatively uncommon outside of Jewish circles. Today, parents continue to choose the name Shemaiah for their sons in honor of its biblical heritage and meaningful origin. It is a name that carries a sense of tradition and spirituality while also conveying a strong and dignified presence. Although it may be less commonly heard than some other Hebrew names, Shemaiah stands out as a unique and powerful choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful moniker for their child. In summary, the name Shemaiah is of Hebrew origin, derived from the word "shama" meaning "to hear." It has historical significance due to its association with one of the chief priests during the reign of King Manasseh in Jerusalem. Throughout history, Shemaiah has been a popular choice among Jewish communities and continues to be given to boys today in honor of its biblical heritage. Despite its relative rarity outside of Jewish circles, Shemaiah remains an attractive option for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their son.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Shemaiah since 1880

Total births
264
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
16 births
in 2023
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-68%
vs previous 5 years