The name Benaiah has its origins in ancient Hebrew, derived from the elements ben meaning "son" and Yah, a shortened form of Yahweh (the Hebrew name for God). It can be translated as "Yahweh has built" or "Son of Yahweh." The name's roots can be traced back to the Old Testament, where it first appears in the Bible.

One of the earliest and most notable individuals bearing the name Benaiah was a military commander who served under King David in the 10th century BC. He was regarded as one of David's mighty men and is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, including 2 Samuel 23:20-23, where his bravery and exploits are recounted.

In the Book of Chronicles, Benaiah is described as the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest. He was appointed as the commander of David's bodyguard and played a crucial role in the succession of Solomon as the next king of Israel after David's death.

Another historical figure named Benaiah is mentioned in the Book of Ezra. He was a Levite who lived during the time of the Babylonian exile and returned to Jerusalem with Ezra the scribe in the 5th century BC.

In the New Testament, Benaiah is not explicitly mentioned, but the name's meaning and significance carry over from its Old Testament roots.

Throughout history, there have been several other notable individuals named Benaiah, including:

1. Benaiah ben Yehoyada (c. 10th century BC), a military commander under King David in ancient Israel.
2. Benaiah Naphtali (c. 1660-1680), a Jewish kabbalist and writer in Italy.
3. Benaiah Mordecai Rafel (1798-1865), a Karaite Jewish scholar and writer in Crimea.
4. Benaiah Sommerfeld (1892-1973), a Polish-born American Zionist leader and writer.
5. Benaiah Segal (1931-2018), an Israeli painter and sculptor known for his abstract expressionist works.

The name Benaiah has endured through the centuries, carrying the rich cultural and religious heritage of its Hebrew origins, and has been borne by individuals from various walks of life, including military leaders, scholars, writers, and artists.