Jonathan is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin. It means "gift from God." The name Jonathan is derived from the Hebrew word "yonatan," which is composed of two elements: "yon" meaning "to give" and "athan" meaning "a gift." Therefore, Jonathan signifies someone who receives a precious gift from God.
The name Jonathan gained prominence in literature through William Shakespeare's play "King Henry IV," in which one of the main characters was named Prince John (later King John). However, it was not until the late 19th century that Jonathan started to be used as a given name in English-speaking countries. Before then, it had been mainly used as a surname.
In the Bible, Jonathan is the name of David's closest friend and son of King Saul. Their friendship is one of the most memorable tales in the Old Testament, highlighting loyalty, bravery, and kindness. This biblical association may have contributed to the increasing popularity of the name Jonathan during the late 20th century.
Today, Jonathan remains a popular choice for parents looking for strong, classic names with significant meanings. Its timeless appeal can be attributed to its unique blend of historical relevance, biblical connection, and a charming meaning that conveys the preciousness of God's gifts.
Statistics on the name Jonathan in the United States show that it was given to 5 babies in 1982 and 7 babies in 1988. This means that a total of 12 babies were named Jonathan in those two years combined.