The name Sariah is believed to have its origins in the Hebrew language, deriving from the root words "sarah" and "yah". The name "sarah" means "princess" or "noblewoman", while "yah" is a shortened form of the Hebrew name for God, "Yahweh". Thus, the name Sariah can be interpreted to mean "Princess of God" or "Noblewoman of God".

Historically, the name Sariah is most prominently associated with the Book of Mormon, a sacred text in the Latter-day Saint movement. In the Book of Mormon, Sariah is introduced as the wife of the prophet Lehi, who is depicted as leading his family from Jerusalem around 600 BCE. Sariah is portrayed as a faithful and courageous woman who endures many hardships while following her husband's divine guidance.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Sariah outside of religious texts is found in the 17th century. Sariah Whiting, born in 1635 in Massachusetts Bay Colony, is believed to be one of the first individuals bearing this name in the American colonies. Her name was likely influenced by the Book of Mormon, which was published in 1830 and gained widespread recognition among early members of the Latter-day Saint movement.

Among notable historical figures with the name Sariah is Sariah Louisa Sargent, born in 1807 in Massachusetts. She was a prominent figure in the early Latter-day Saint movement and was among the first members to be baptized in the movement's early days. Another notable individual is Sariah Elizabeth Fackrell, born in 1872 in Utah, who was a pioneer in the Latter-day Saint settlement of Idaho and served as a midwife and nurse.

In the 19th century, Sariah Sanford, born in 1843 in New York, was a prominent educator and advocate for women's rights. She founded the Young Ladies' Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah, which was one of the first schools in the region dedicated to providing higher education for women. Additionally, Sariah Asenath Delano, born in 1809 in Vermont, was a notable author and poet who published several works that touched on themes of spirituality and personal growth.

While the name Sariah has its roots in the Hebrew language and religious traditions, it has also been embraced by individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems throughout history. Its meaning and significance have resonated with many, making it a name that has stood the test of time.