Gera
Masculine
English Bible, Hebrew Bible
Meaning & Origin
Gera is a name found in the Old Testament, belonging to several members of the Benjamin tribe. The name possibly derives from the Hebrew word "a grain", though its exact etymology is uncertain. In the biblical narrative, Gera is mentioned as a son of Bela (1 Chronicles 8:3) and also as the father of Ehud, a left-handed judge of Israel (Judges 3:15). Additionally, he appears as a son of Shimei (Esther 2:5), suggesting multiple individuals with this name within the same tribe. Although the name Gera is not common outside biblical contexts, it has occasionally been used as a given name in religious families, particularly among those who adhere to strict biblical naming traditions. The city of Gera in Germany, notable for its history and size, derives its name from a different linguistic origin (Slavic ‘geri’ meaning ‘river’) and has no direct connection to the biblical personages.