All about the name

Menashe

Male

« Menashe is a distinctive Hebrew name meaning "to cause to forget," with biblical associations but rare in popularity. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Menashe is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "menashe," which means "to cause to forget" or "to cause to abandon." The name Menashe is often associated with Menahem, another Hebrew name that shares the same root. In the Bible, Menashe was the firstborn son of King Hezekiah of Judah. He is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 33:1-20 as a wicked king who introduced idolatry into the kingdom and was eventually taken captive by the Assyrians. However, his grandson, Josiah, reversed many of his policies and restored the worship of Yahweh. Despite its biblical associations, the name Menashe has not been particularly popular throughout history. It is more commonly found among Sephardic Jews, who tend to favor traditional Hebrew names over those that have become more widespread in modern times. Today, Menashe is still a rare and unusual name, but it carries with it a rich cultural heritage and an intriguing historical legacy. As a name of Hebrew origin, it may also hold special significance for those with Jewish ancestry or who are drawn to the cultural and religious traditions of Judaism. Overall, Menashe is a unique and memorable name that stands out from more common names of similar origin.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Menashe since 1880

Total births
392
Total since 1880
Peak year
2014
24 births
in 2023
21
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+14%
vs previous 5 years