The name Isiah has its roots in the Hebrew language, originating from the biblical name Yeshayahu, which means "Yahweh is salvation" or "the Lord is salvation." This name can be traced back to ancient times, with references found in the Old Testament of the Bible.

One of the earliest and most notable figures associated with the name Isiah is the biblical prophet Isaiah, who lived in the 8th century BC. His prophecies and teachings are recorded in the Book of Isaiah, a significant part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament.

In the Middle Ages, the name Isiah gained popularity among Jewish communities, particularly in Europe. It was often used as a variant spelling of the more common Hebrew name Yeshayahu. During this period, the name spread across various regions and cultures, adapting to different languages and spelling variations.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals bearing the name Isiah. One of the earliest examples is Isiah ben Abraham Halevi, a 13th-century Jewish scholar and poet from Spain. Another prominent figure was Isiah ben Mali di Trani, also known as the Rid, a renowned Italian rabbi and Talmudic scholar who lived in the 16th century.

In more recent times, the name Isiah has been associated with several influential individuals. One of the most famous is Isiah Thomas, an American former professional basketball player who was born in 1961. He was a member of the Detroit Pistons and led the team to two NBA championships in 1989 and 1990.

Another notable Isiah is Isiah Whitlock Jr., an American actor born in 1954, best known for his role as Senator Clay Davis in the HBO series "The Wire" and his appearances in various films and television shows.

Isiah Leggett, an American politician born in 1944, served as the County Executive of Montgomery County, Maryland, from 2006 to 2018, and was the first African American to hold this position.

In the world of music, Isiah Sheffer, a British singer-songwriter born in 1963, gained recognition for his contributions to the UK dance and pop scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

These are just a few examples of the individuals who have carried the name Isiah throughout history, reflecting its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods.