Popular Biblical Baby Names for Girls

Trendy and Common New and Old Testament Names

by Naomi Rockler-Gladen

Sarah? Abigail? Hannah? Here are some of the most common Biblical names that are currently given to little girls.

If you're looking for a classic name for a baby girl with lots of history, you can't go wrong with a Biblical name. Although some Biblical names are more trendy and popular than others, few of them ever completely go out of style. Here's a selection of popular and trendy Biblical names for your little girl, along with their meanings.

Sarah/Sara - Sarah is one of the most enduring Biblical names for girls. Used in many different cultures, Sarah has been in the top 50 name list in the United States since 1972, and the name was also very popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century. In the Bible, Sarah was the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac, and is one of the most significant women in the Old Testament. The name comes from a Hebrew expression that means "princess."

Hannah/Anna - In recent years, Hannah and Anna names have become very popular in English speaking countries. In the past, Ann and Annie were popular choices, and versions of this name are popular all over the wold-- Anya, Annika, Ana, Anita, Aniko, and so forth. These names originate from the Biblical name Channah, who was barren and despondent for many years until she was blessed with her son Samuel. Channah means "favored grace."

Mary - Although not nearly as popular as it used to be, Mary remains a common name that's way too classic to ever go out of style. Variations of the name are popular throughout the world-- Marie, Maria, Maren, Maritza, and so forth. As the mother of Jesus, Mary is by far the most prominent woman in the New Testament. The source of this name is somewhat disputed-- it may come from Miriam, which means "wished for child," or possibly from Mara, which means "bitterness."