Name meaning & originJosiah יֹאשִׁיָּהוּ
/jo-SY-ah/
Josiah is a Hebrew boy's name pronounced /jo-SY-ah/. The name means 'God supports' or 'Jehovah heals'.
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Meaning of Josiah
The name means 'God supports' or 'Jehovah heals'.
It is derived from the Hebrew name Yoshiyahu, combining the roots 'yasha' (to support or heal) and 'Yah' (the shortened form of the Hebrew name for God). In the Old Testament, Josiah was an influential King of Judah who instituted major religious reforms. The name carries a historical weight of restoration and spiritual integrity.
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Pronunciation
- /jo-SY-ah/
Cultural background
While traditionally popular in Jewish and Christian communities, it saw a significant revival in English-speaking countries starting in the late 20th century.
Variations & nicknames
- Josias
- Joss
- Joziah
- Yoshiyahu
- Si
Famous people named Josiah
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Josiah
King of Judah who instituted the Deuteronomic reforms
Religion · 7th Century BC
Josiah Wedgwood
English potter and founder of the Wedgwood company
Business · 18th Century
Josiah Bartlett
Signer of the United States Declaration of Independence
Politics · 18th Century
Josiah Royce
American objective idealist philosopher
Philosophy · 19th Century
Josiah Bartlet
Fictional President of the United States in The West Wing
Film · 1999–2006
Frequently asked about Josiah
- Is Josiah a biblical name?
- Yes, Josiah was a righteous King of Judah who is highly regarded in the Bible for his religious reforms and rediscovery of the Law.
- What are common nicknames for Josiah?
- Common nicknames include Jo, Joey, Si, and Joss.
- What does the name Josiah mean in Hebrew?
- It literally translates to 'Yahweh supports' or 'God heals'.
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