The name Beth is derived from the Hebrew name Batya or Batsheva, meaning "daughter of God" or "God's promise". It has its origins in ancient Judaic culture, dating back to biblical times.

In the Old Testament, Batsheva was the wife of King David and the mother of King Solomon. Her story is recounted in the Second Book of Samuel, where she is described as a beautiful woman who caught David's eye while bathing.

The shortened form Beth emerged as a common name in English-speaking countries during the Middle Ages, particularly in Britain and Ireland. It was often used as a diminutive or nickname for longer names such as Elizabeth or Bethany.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Beth is in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle from the 9th century, which mentions a woman named Betha. In the 12th century, Beth was a common name among English and Welsh nobility.

Notable historical figures named Beth include:

1. Beth Van Zandt (1675-1747), an American colonial folk hero known for her bravery during a Native American attack.
2. Beth Becker (1820-1899), a German-American educator and advocate for women's rights.
3. Beth Shalom (1914-1990), a Polish-born Israeli rabbi and Holocaust survivor.
4. Beth Henley (born 1952), an American playwright and actress, known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning play "Crimes of the Heart".
5. Beth Gibbons (born 1965), an English singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the trip-hop band Portishead.

Throughout history, the name Beth has been associated with strength, resilience, and a connection to one's faith or spiritual beliefs. Its enduring popularity across cultures and generations is a testament to its timeless appeal.