Origin
Hebrew origin, attested in the Bible as a religious site in Canaan. The name Shiloh appears in the Old Testament, notably in Genesis and Joshua, where it signifies a place of peace and tranquility. It is associated with the Messianic prophecy in Christian tradition. The name is also found in modern contexts among Aboriginal Australians, particularly in relation to spiritual or sacred sites, though it is primarily of Hebrew biblical origin. The original Hebrew spelling is שִׁילֹה (Shiloh).
Meaning
Literal translation as 'He who is to be sent' or 'Messianic title of peace'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes serenity, hope, and spiritual significance, often used symbolically in cultural or community settings.
Pronunciation
/ʃɪ.loʊ/ (Australian English pronunciation: /ˈʃɪ.lɔː/), stressing the first syllable. The 'sh' as in 'ship', 'i' as in 'bit', and 'loh' with a long 'o' sound.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Shiloh (original and most common spelling)
- Shilo (alternative spelling)
- Shilohh (less common, stylistic variation)
Nicknames
- Shil
- Shy
- Lo
Name Days
- 28 February (Christian Feast Day)
- 15 September (Protestant calendar)
- 21 September (Māori observance of village or pā names relevant to Australian Māori communities)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with shiloh:
- James and William
- Grace and Lily','Noa and Miro
- Aiden and Oliver
Fun Facts
- Shiloh is a popular name for Australian border collies, reflecting the peaceful and alert qualities associated with the name.
- The name has been adopted in Australian literature and media as a symbol of hope and tranquility.
- In some Aboriginal communities, similar-sounding names are linked to local Dreaming stories, though 'Shiloh' itself is biblical.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name shiloh:
- Serene
- Hopeful
- Spiritual
- Peaceful
Aesthetic Qualities
Clean, simple, and harmonious visual arrangement. The name's brevity and soft sounds give it a gentle, balanced aesthetic in written form in Australian print and digital media.
Geographical Distribution
More prevalent in urban areas with diverse populations, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Slightly less common in rural and indigenous communities, where traditional names are more customary.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7, associated with introspection, deep thinking, and spiritual development in numerology. Considered a fortunate number for spiritual and emotional growth.
Astrological Connections
Aligned with the zodiac sign Pisces, reinforcing themes of serenity, intuition, and compassion. Birth dates during Pisces season are thought to resonate well with the name's qualities.
Historical Context
The name Shiloh gained broader cultural recognition in Australia through religious communities and cultural references. It has been used in Australian film and literature to evoke themes of peace and hope. Notably, 'Shiloh' was referenced in the work of Australian author Ruth Park, who admired its biblical and universal symbolism.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across English-speaking contexts. Variations exist in Hebrew transliteration; in Australia, the spelling 'Shiloh' is standard, with occasional creative spellings in popular culture.
Famous People Named shiloh
- Shiloh Jolie-Pitt (daughter of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, internationally known)
- Shiloh Samuels (Australian social activist)
- Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt (celebrity child)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 2 |
2017 | 1 |
2016 | 1 |
2015 | 1 |