Find out how popular the first name Rahab has been for the last 14 years (from 2007 to 2020) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Rahab by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Rahab is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2020, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Rahab.

The history of the first name Rahab

The name Rahab has its origins in the Hebrew language and is derived from the root word רָחַב (rachav), which means "broad," "wide," or "spacious." It was a common name among ancient Semitic cultures, particularly in the regions of Canaan and Israel.

Rahab is a prominent figure in the Book of Joshua in the Hebrew Bible. She was a woman from Jericho who sheltered two Israelite spies and helped them escape, ensuring the eventual conquest of the city by the Israelites. This act of bravery and loyalty is celebrated in the Bible, and Rahab is respected as a righteous woman who is even included in the lineage of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Rahab is found in the Book of Joshua, which is believed to have been written around the 6th century BCE. However, the name likely predates this text and may have been in use in the region for centuries prior.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Rahab. One of the most famous was Rahab, the woman from Jericho mentioned in the Bible. Another was Rahab, a 4th-century Christian martyr who was executed during the reign of Roman Emperor Maximian for her refusal to renounce her faith.

In the 5th century, there was a Rahab who was a monk and hermit in the Egyptian desert. He is venerated as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Additionally, in the 12th century, there was a Rahab who was a Jewish philosopher and biblical commentator from Troyes, France.

During the Renaissance period, there was an Italian painter named Rahab Carracci, who lived from 1568 to 1609 and was a part of the influential Carracci family of artists. Her works are known for their technical skill and attention to detail.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who bore the name Rahab, showcasing its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Rahab was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Rahab, please contact us.

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