Meaning & History
'Azazyahu (Hebrew: עֲזַזְיָהוּ) is the Hebrew form of Azaziah, found in the Old Testament. The name is borne by three minor figures: a Levite musician (1 Chronicles 15:21), a Davidite officer (1 Chronicles 27:20), and a prince associated with King Josiah's reforms (2 Chronicles 31:13).
Etymologically, 'Azazyahu is a theophoric name combining the Hebrew root (ʿazaz) meaning "to be strong" and (yah), a shortened form of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The name thus conveys the meaning "Yahweh is strong" or "Yahweh has strengthened." The longer suffix -yahu is characteristic of Judahite names during the First Temple period.
Though obscure today, 'Azazyahu exemplifies the common biblical pattern of forming names with divine elements. Its usage is exclusively historical, as it appears only in Hebrew Bible records.
- Meaning: "Yahweh is strong"
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: Given name
- Usage Regions: Hebrew Bible