Origin
Biblical Hebrew (Yehōḏā) - From the Old Testament, where Jebediah is mentioned as a prophet or a priest. The name appears in ancient Hebrew texts and has been adopted in Christian traditions. The name has no direct Aboriginal or Mori origins, but it has been embraced culturally in Christian communities across Australia.
Meaning
'Loved by the Lord' or ' beloved of God'. In the Australian context, the name connotes religious reverence and historical Christian heritage, often associated with traditional biblical values.
Pronunciation
/dʒɪˈbiːdɪə/ (Jeb-ee-diah) - The emphasis is on the second syllable, with a soft 'J' as in 'dJ'. Australian English pronunciation tends to be clear, with slight variations based on regional accents.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Jebadiah
- Jebediah
- Jebediah
Nicknames
- Jeb
- Deb
Name Days
- 24 July (Feast Day of Saint Jebediah in some Christian calendars)
- 12 August (traditional Orthodox feast day, observed in some Australian Christian communities)
- 25 December (Christmas Day, representing the biblical connection, though not specific to Jebediah)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with jebediah:
- William and Mary
- James and Elizabeth
- George and Charlotte
Fun Facts
- The name Jebediah is famously associated with the founding of Perth, Western Australia, through the statue of Jebediah Springfield in the animated TV show 'The Simpsons', which is a fictional representation inspired by real biblical names.
- Jebediah is relatively uncommon in modern Australia, often chosen for its historical and religious significance.
- The name appears in Australian history as a name used to evoke traditional Australian pioneering spirit and heritage.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name jebediah:
- Traditional
- Religious
- Resilient
- Conservative
Aesthetic Qualities
Classic and formal appearance, with a historical and religious feel. The name has a solid, grounded visual appeal in print and digital media, suitable for both traditional and modern settings.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in Western Australia, especially around Perth, owing to historical associations with early settlers and local heritage. Less prevalent in other Australian states.
Numerological Significance
Number 9 in Pythagorean numerology, associated with humanitarianism and idealism. Names with this number are believed to have a deep spiritual significance.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological association, but often linked with qualities of leadership and service in zodiac contexts, especially for those born under water signs like Cancer or Pisces.
Historical Context
Jebediah has been used historically within Christian communities in Australia, often finding its way into local churches and communities that value biblical heritage. A famous Australian figure named Jebediah is Jebediah Springfield, a fictional character symbolising Australian pioneering pride in popular culture.
Linguistic Adaptability
Easily adapted across English-speaking countries, with minor spelling adjustments. The biblical form remains consistent, but informal contexts might shorten it to Jeb.
Famous People Named jebediah
- Jebediah (Australian indie rock band)
- Jebediah Springfield (fictional character from 'The Simpsons')
- Jebediah Johnson (historical Australian settler, cultural figure)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2017 | 1 |
2016 | 1 |