A Name of God: Unpacking Emmanuel’s Roots
Emmanuel is a Hebrew name with profound religious significance. It translates to “God is with us.” Its roots lie in the Old Testament, specifically in Isaiah 7:14, where it is prophesied that a child will be born to the virgin, and that the child’s name will be Emmanuel. This prophecy is widely interpreted as referring to Jesus Christ, making Emmanuel a deeply revered and spiritually resonant name within Christianity.
Pronunciation Guide
IPA: /ɪˈmænjəl/
Phonetic: em-man-YUL
Gender Identity
male
Nicknames & Variations
- Manny
- Em
- Man
- Ema
Figures of Note
- Emmanuel Macron — President of France
- Emmanuel Lewis — American actor
Cultural & Religious Significance
Primarily associated with Christianity, Emmanuel holds immense religious weight. It is a name frequently chosen by those seeking to express their faith and devotion. Beyond its religious context, Emmanuel resonates across cultures as a symbol of hope, companionship, and divine presence.
Global Usage
Emmanuel is widely used in Christian communities globally, particularly in Europe, North America, Africa, and Latin America. It has also gained popularity beyond religious contexts due to its strong and positive connotations.
Names with Similar Connotations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emmanuel a biblical name?
Yes, it is directly from the Old Testament prophecy in Isaiah 7:14.
What does Emmanuel mean?
It means “God is with us” in Hebrew.
Is Emmanuel popular?
Emmanuel enjoys consistent popularity across various regions, particularly within Christian communities.