Seraphim is an alternate transcription of the Russian name Серафим (see Serafim), which itself descends from the Late Latin Seraphinus and ultimately from the biblical word seraphim, meaning “fiery ones” in Hebrew. This places Seraphim within a rich chain of related names, including the feminine Seraphina and various forms across European languages. Etymology and Biblical Origins The root of the name lies in the Hebrew noun saraf (שָׂרָף), which denotes a “fiery” or “burning” being. In the Hebrew Bible, the seraphim appear most prominently in the vision of the prophet Isaiah, who describes them as six-winged celestial attendants standing above God’s throne, calling out, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3). These beings are also mentioned in the Book of Enoch and the Book of Revelation, reinforcing their status as a high order of angels in Jewish and Christian angelology. In Christian tradition, seraphim are often ranked at the highest level of the celestial hierarchy, encircling the divine presence with their triple invocation of holiness. Historical and Cultural Usage As a personal name, Seraphim emerged in honor of a 13th-century Italian saint, Seraphina (also known as Fina da San Gimignano), who dedicated her life to prayer and caring for the poor. The masculine forms Seraphin, Serafim, and Seraphinus spread through Late Latin and into various European languages. In Russian, the name Серафим (Serafim) became established through the Eastern Orthodox tradition, where the veneration of angels and the commemoration of Saint Seraphim of Sarov (1759–1833), a prominent Russian monk and mystic, further popularized the name. The alternate romanization Seraphim typically follows the English transliteration, retaining the biblical spelling familiar from English Bible translations. Meaning: “fiery ones” (from Hebrew saraf) Origin: Hebrew, via Greek seraphim and Late Latin Seraphinus Type: Given name (masculine) Usage regions: Principally Russia, but also in French (Séraphin), Italian (Serafino), Polish (Serafin), Portuguese (Serafim), and Greek (Serafeim) Feminine forms: Serafima (Russian); Seraphina (English/Italian)