Emmaus is a unique and distinctive given name of Hebrew origin. It comes from the town of Emmaus in Samaria, which is mentioned several times in the New Testament of the Bible. In the story of the Road to Emmaus, two of Jesus Christ's disciples encountered Him after His resurrection while traveling to Emmaus.
The meaning of Emmaus can be interpreted in various ways depending on the interpretation of the biblical narrative. Some believe it means "warm springs" or "place of hot springs," referring to the thermal waters found near the town. Others associate it with the idea of "strength" or "fortitude," as the disciples recognized Jesus only after He had broken bread with them, reminiscent of His last supper.
Throughout history, Emmaus has been a significant location for Christian pilgrimage and devotion. The city is now part of modern-day Israel and Palestine, and its ruins can still be visited today. Despite its biblical origins, Emmaus was not widely used as a given name until the 19th century when it began to appear more frequently in Europe and North America.
Today, Emmaus continues to be a rare but meaningful name choice for parents looking for a distinctive and spiritually significant moniker for their children. It remains closely tied to its biblical roots and carries with it a sense of historical and religious importance.
Emmaus is a unique and distinctive name that has been used for newborns in the United States for at least one year, with an annual birth count of five in 2013.