Jochebed

Origin

Hebrew origin, from the name יוחבד (Yochaved), combining יו (Yahu), a form of Yahweh (the Hebrew God), with חבד (chaved), meaning 'glory' or 'abundance'. It appears in the Hebrew Bible as the mother of Miriam, Aaron, and Moses. The name is transliterated in English as Jochebed, with variants found in historical texts and religious traditions.

Meaning

'Yahweh is glory' or 'abundance of the Lord'. In Australian English contexts, it carries connotations of biblical heritage, maternal strength, and historical reverence.

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒɒkəbɛd/ (Australian English, primary stress on the first syllable) — pronounced as 'JOK-uh-bed' in colloquial Australian accent, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 25 December (Christmas Day - in Christian traditions recognising biblical figures)
• Optional: 20 March (Religious observance of Jochebed in some liturgical calendars)
• In Māori contexts, there are no specific Māori name days for Jochebed.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with jochebed:

• Miriam and Aaron
• Moses and Miriam
• Ruth and Naomi (biblical themes)

Fun Facts

• Jochebed is one of the rarer biblical names still used among Australian families with religious heritage.
• The name is often chosen for its maternal and biblical significance in Christian communities in Australia.
• In recent years, there has been a slight increase in biblical name choices in Australian baby naming trends.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name jochebed:

• devout
• maternal
• courageous
• protective

Aesthetic Qualities

Classic and formal, with a vintage biblical appeal. The name’s scriptural roots confer a timeless, reverent aesthetic in Australian naming conventions.

Geographical Distribution

Most common within Australian states with higher religious community concentrations, such as Victoria and New South Wales, particularly in Christian-affiliated schools and communities.

Numerological Significance

Name number 3 (based on Pythagorean numerology), associated with creativity, expression, and socialisation. Encourages a personality of warmth and communication.

Astrological Connections

No direct astrological associations, but the name's biblical significance aligns it with themes of divine protection and maternal nurturing, resonating with Cancer and Pisces traits.

Historical Context

Jochebed appears in biblical narratives as a courageous mother who hides her son Moses to save him from Pharaoh’s decree. The name has been used in Christian communities throughout Australia, especially among families with a keen interest in biblical stories.

Linguistic Adaptability

Maintains consistent spelling in English; transliteration varies for Hebrew pronunciation. Not commonly adapted into other scripts outside religious contexts.

Famous People Named jochebed

• None widely known in Australia specifically by this name, but biblical figures like Jochebed are referenced in religious education and cultural narratives.
• Jochem Bed (notable for its similarity but not directly related)
• Other biblical characters with similar themes.

Popularity in Australia