Meaning & History
Atara is the Hebrew form of Atarah, a name that appears in the Hebrew Bible. The name derives from the Hebrew noun atarah, meaning "crown" — a symbol of royalty, honor, and victory. In Jewish tradition, crowns often represent divine glory or the adornment of a virtuous soul.
The biblical Atarah is a minor figure mentioned in 1 Chronicles 2:26 as a wife of Jerahmeel, a descendant of Judah through Hezron. Jerahmeel himself bears a theophoric name meaning "God will have pity," combining the Hebrew roots raḥam (to pity) and ʾel (God). Atarah's position as a wife in the genealogical lists underscores the name's role within Israelite onomastic tradition, where names often carried profound familial and spiritual significance. Beyond its biblical usage, Atara has been employed as a Hebrew translation of the Yiddish feminine name Kreine, which also means "crown." In modern times, the name has been borne by several notable figures, including: Atara Barzely (Miss Israel 1957), Atara Ben-Tovim (British flautist), Atara Marmor (French historian), Atara Polonsky (Israeli athlete), Atara Ofek (Israeli writer), and Atara Oryah (Israeli singer). While not among the most common names in contemporary Israel, Atara retains a quiet elegance with biblical roots and a timeless symbolism. Its connection to royalty and divine favor makes it a meaningful choice for those seeking a name with spiritual depth and cultural resonance.
Key Facts
- Meaning: "Crown"
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: Feminine given name
- Usage: Hebrew, Hebrew Bible, Jewish communities
- Related Names: Atarah (original form)