Hilah is a unique and captivating female given name with roots deeply planted in the Hebrew culture. The origin of the name can be traced back to ancient Israelite society where it was borne by several notable women mentioned in the Bible.
The meaning behind Hilah has been interpreted in various ways, but most agree that it signifies "dream" or "vision." This interpretation draws from the Hebrew word "chalom," which means dream. However, other sources suggest it might mean "rock" or "strong one," attributed to its similarity with another Hebrew word, "chalah," meaning rock.
The earliest known occurrence of this name appears in the Old Testament book of Ruth (Ruth 4:10). Hilah is introduced as a Moabite woman who married an Israelite man named Mahlon. Her husband's untimely death left her and her sister-in-law, Orpah, childless widows. The story continues with Ruth choosing to stay by her mother-in-law Naomi's side in Israel, eventually marrying Boaz and becoming an ancestor of King David.
Throughout history, the name Hilah has remained relatively uncommon outside Jewish communities. Nevertheless, it carries a rich heritage and profound significance for those who bear or honor this distinctive name. Today, parents continue to choose Hilah for their daughters, drawn perhaps by its biblical roots or unique sound that sets it apart from more common names. Despite its rarity, Hilah remains a powerful and evocative moniker with a strong connection to ancient traditions.
The name Hilah has been given to a total of 61 babies in the United States over the years, with the most popular years being 1921 and 1923, when it was given to 6 babies each year. While the name's popularity has waned since then, with only 5 births recorded in both 1952 and 2019, it remains a unique choice for parents looking for something different. Despite its rarity, Hilah is still used today, showing that some parents prefer to buck trends and opt for lesser-known names.