Choosing a name for your new baby is an important decision with long-lasting consequences – good, bad, or somewhere in between! Some parents choose names from their lineage, some choose names that are currently popular, others even make names up! And then there are others looking for something with a deeper significance. For parents looking for a name that symbolizes the favor of God (aka grace), baby boy names meaning “God is gracious” are a great choice. These names point back to God, but also reflect parents’ spirituality and relationship with their maker.
In this article, we look at 15 baby boy names from Christian, Catholic, Greek, and Hebrew backgrounds, all united by God’s grace.
*Yes, the meaning of a name is significant, but it’s also important to choose a name that resonates with you personally. Try calling out names you like in your home to see what it feels like to say it out loud. Notice what you feel when saying each name!
The Power of Grace: 15 Inspiring Baby Boy Names Meaning God is Gracious
1. Jonathan – Meaning “God has given” or “gift from God,” Jonathan is a classic biblical name often associated with friendship and loyalty. Jonathan was a loyal friend to the future king David, often choosing David over his own father, the current king. Nickname: Jon or John
2. Nathaniel – This Hebrew name means “gift of God.” It has religious origins but has become quite popular in various cultures due to its soft yet strong sound. Nathaniel was one of Jesus’ first disciples, called at the same time as Andrew and Peter. Nickname: Nate
3. Matthew – Derived from the Hebrew name Matityahu, which means “gift of Yahweh” (Yahweh being one of the biblical names for God), Matthew carries a deep sense of gratitude towards God’s grace. Matthew was also one of Jesus’ disciples, previously a hated tax collector. Matthew likely felt overwhelmed by the grace of God, considering his background. Nickname: Matt
4. Theodore – Theodore: With Greek origins, Theodore combines two words (Theos + doron) to mean “God’s gift.” It carries an air of sophistication and gentleness while emphasizing divine blessings. Theodore is not a name mentioned in the Bible, but became popular during the rise of the Christian church. Nickname: Theo
5. Gabriel – One of the most important angels mentioned in the Bible, Gabriel means “God is my strength” or “hero of God.” The name reflects God’s protection and support throughout life’s journey. Gabriel is mentioned a few times in the Bible as a messenger. His most memorable announcement was the coming of the messiah! (This is also my son’s name! He goes by Gabe.)
6. Samuel – Meaning “heard by God,” Samuel means an individual who hears God’s messages and seeks guidance from the Lord. Samuel was one of the “good guys” in the Bible. His mother dedicated him to the Lord and allowed him to grow up serving in the temple. Samuel was a prophet, leader, and a judge of Israel. Nickname: Sam or Sammy
7. Aaron – In Hebrew, Aaron represents “mountain of strength” or “exalted one.” In the Bible, Aaron was Moses’ brother and was often his mouthpiece when dealing with Pharaoh. (If you pick this name, you should probably know about the A Aron skit. It’s hilarious.)
8. Matthias – Originating from the Greek name Matthaĩos, Matthias implies being chosen by God or having been granted favor through divine intervention. Matthias is not the same person as Matthew, one of Jesus’ first disciples. He was actually the disciple that replaced Judas, and his name is recorded in Acts 1:23-26.
9. Adriel – This Hebrew name translates to either “flock of God” or “follower of God.” It symbolizes someone who walks in full alignment with their beliefs. Adriel was a minor character in the Bible, chosen as the husband of one of Saul’s daughters, after she was already promised to David.
10. Eliel – Combining elements from two Hebrew words meaning ‘my’ and ‘God,’ Eliel signifies “my God is God.” It represents a deep connection with our Heavenly Father and recognizes his authority over all things. Eliel was a leader in one of the tribes of Israel, mentioned many times in 1 Chronicles.
11. Ethan – This Hebrew name means “strong” or “enduring,” symbolizing God’s strength and support. In the Bible, Ethan is best known as the author of Psalm 89 – a psalm of praise to the Lord!
12. Tobias – Of Hebrew origin, Tobias represents the idea of God’s goodness. Tobias is in the catholic bible of the old testament, even with his own book. However, he isn’t a significant character in the protestant bible. (You should know, in pop culture Tobias is best known as a hilarious character in the show Arrested Development.)
13. Zachary – Another biblical choice, Zachary means “remembered by God” or “the Lord has remembered.” In the Bible, Zechariah was the husband of Elizabeth, the cousin of Jesus’ mother, Mary. Zachary was a loyal follower of God and served in the temple, even as an older man. Zechariah was also the father of John the “baptizer”, who prepared the way for Jesus. Nickname: Zach
14. Jesse: With ancient biblical origins, Jesse represents being blessed by God or receiving His gracefulness. Jesse was King David’s father, the most famous kin in the Old Testament. Jesse, like David, was a shepherd. This is a gender neutral name. Nickname: Jess, Jessie
15. Asher: Meaning “happy” or “blessed” in Hebrew, Asher signifies a child who brings joy and blessing into their family’s life. Asher was the son of Jacob and Zilphah, and went on to become the leader and name of one of Isreal’s tribes. Nickname: Ash
Which Baby Boy Name Do You Prefer?
Which name did you prefer? Did I leave anything out? Leave a comment and let me know your thoughts. And remember to research these names further to ensure their meanings align with your preferences before making a final decision for your baby boy’s name!