The name Jermiah has its origins in Hebrew and is derived from the biblical name Yirmeyahu. It is a theophoric name, meaning "Yahweh has uplifted" or "Yahweh has appointed." The name can be traced back to the 7th century BC, when the prophet Jeremiah lived in ancient Judah.

The biblical Book of Jeremiah, part of the Old Testament, is named after the prophet and provides insight into his life and teachings. Jeremiah was a prominent figure who spoke out against the rulers of Judah and warned of the impending destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Jermiah dates back to the 6th century BC. A Babylonian cuneiform inscription mentions a Jewish exile named Yirmeyahu, which is the original Hebrew form of the name.

In the New Testament, the Greek form of the name, Ieremias, is used to refer to the prophet Jeremiah. This version of the name was adopted by early Christian communities and helped spread its use throughout Europe.

Among the notable historical figures who bore the name Jermiah are Jeremiah of Wallachia (c. 1530-1597), a Prince of Wallachia; Jeremiah Horrocks (1619-1641), an English astronomer who predicted the transit of Venus; and Jeremiah Clarke (c. 1674-1707), an English composer known for his keyboard works and the famous "Prince of Denmark's March."

The name Jermiah gained further popularity in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly among Puritans and Protestant communities influenced by the Bible. Notable individuals from this period include Jeremiah Dummer (1681-1739), an American-born English writer and colonial agent, and Jeremiah Dixon (1733-1779), an English surveyor and astronomer who helped establish the Mason-Dixon line.

Throughout history, the name Jermiah has been associated with religious figures, scholars, and individuals who made significant contributions to their respective fields. Its biblical origins and meaning have contributed to its enduring popularity across different cultures and traditions.