Issa is a male given name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "issa" which means "Jesus". The name Issa is often used by Muslims as an alternative to the name Jesus, as they believe that Jesus was not crucified and died on the cross but rather ascended into heaven alive.
The name Issa has a rich history in Islamic tradition. According to some interpretations of the Quran, it is believed that Prophet Muhammad received revelations from God through the angel Gabriel while he was meditating in a cave called Hira. During this time, Muhammad was known by the name "Issa", which reflected his deep spirituality and devotion to God.
In recent years, the name Issa has gained popularity outside of the Muslim community as well. Celebrities such as Issa Rae, an American actress and writer, have helped to popularize the name and make it more widely known in Western culture.
Overall, the name Issa is a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for a name with deep historical and spiritual significance. Its Arabic origin adds to its exotic appeal, while its meaning of "Jesus" gives it a universally recognizable association.
The name Issa has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, as indicated by the annual birth statistics provided.
In the early 1970s, the name was given to around five babies per year. However, it started gaining traction in the mid-1970s with eight births in 1972 and nine births in 1973. The name's popularity continued to grow throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, reaching a peak of 23 births in 1981.
Interestingly, Issa experienced a dip in popularity during the mid-1980s with fewer than 20 births per year between 1984 and 1987. However, it began to rise again in the late 1980s and early 1990s, reaching over 30 births per year consistently from 1990 onwards.
The name Issa saw a significant surge in popularity in the new millennium, with over 50 births per year from 2003 onwards. The most notable increase occurred between 2007 and 2014, during which time the number of annual births more than doubled, from 68 in 2007 to a peak of 92 in 2014.
In recent years, Issa has continued to maintain its popularity, with over 80 births per year since 2016. In fact, the name reached an all-time high of 107 births in the United States in 2023, indicating that it has become a well-established and beloved choice among parents.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate Issa's journey from a relatively uncommon name to one that has gained significant traction over time, becoming a popular choice for parents in the United States.