Yocheved Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: yo-KHEH-ved /jɔˈxɛ.vɛd/
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: God's glory
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Yocheved is of Hebrew origin, derived from the elements "yo" meaning "Yahweh" or "God" and "cheved" meaning "glory" or "honor." This etymological composition reflects a deep religious significance, as it directly connects the name to the divine. The name appears in the Hebrew Bible, where Yocheved is recognized as the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, prominent figures in Jewish history.
The biblical narrative places her in the context of the Exodus, a foundational story for the Jewish people, which has been preserved through centuries of religious tradition. Yocheved's historical significance is underscored by her role in the biblical account, particularly in the Book of Exodus, which dates back to the 13th century BCE.
Her story is integral to the themes of faith, resilience, and maternal strength, as she defied Pharaoh's decree to save her son Moses, who would later lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. This act of bravery and devotion has made her a revered figure in Jewish tradition, often celebrated in religious texts and teachings.
Culturally, Yocheved embodies the values of family and faith, resonating deeply within Jewish communities. The name has been associated with various symbolic meanings, such as the importance of motherhood and the strength of women in the face of adversity.
In Jewish tradition, names are often chosen for their meanings and the virtues they represent, and Yocheved is no exception. The name has also seen variations and diminutives in different cultures, reflecting its enduring legacy across generations.
Overall, Yocheved stands as a testament to the intertwining of faith, identity, and history within the Jewish narrative.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Yocheved was first seen in the United States in 1953. Yocheved has ranked as high as #1292 nationally, which occurred in 2012, and has been most popular in New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and California. In the past 5 years the name Yocheved has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Yocheved (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NJ | 37 | |
| NY | 22 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1953 | 8 |
| 1956 | 6 |
| 1962 | 11 |
| 1965 | 5 |
| 1967 | 5 |
| 1968 | 5 |
| 1969 | 8 |
| 1970 | 9 |
| 1971 | 10 |
| 1972 | 14 |
| 1973 | 16 |
| 1974 | 6 |
| 1975 | 8 |
| 1976 | 17 |
| 1977 | 17 |
| 1978 | 19 |
| 1979 | 19 |
| 1980 | 24 |
| 1981 | 18 |
| 1982 | 22 |
| 1983 | 16 |
| 1984 | 30 |
| 1985 | 32 |
| 1986 | 28 |
| 1987 | 29 |
| 1988 | 41 |
| 1989 | 25 |
| 1990 | 36 |
| 1991 | 46 |
| 1992 | 28 |
| 1993 | 37 |
| 1994 | 32 |
| 1995 | 39 |
| 1996 | 28 |
| 1997 | 33 |
| 1998 | 42 |
| 1999 | 44 |
| 2000 | 35 |
| 2001 | 43 |
| 2002 | 55 |
| 2003 | 52 |
| 2004 | 50 |
| 2005 | 51 |
| 2006 | 52 |
| 2007 | 48 |
| 2008 | 57 |
| 2009 | 47 |
| 2010 | 75 |
| 2011 | 47 |
| 2012 | 89 |
| 2013 | 58 |
| 2014 | 59 |
| 2015 | 76 |
| 2016 | 71 |
| 2017 | 72 |
| 2018 | 81 |
| 2019 | 63 |
| 2020 | 81 |
| 2021 | 69 |
| 2022 | 67 |
| 2023 | 66 |
| 2024 | 76 |