Manassé

Manassé is the French form of Manasseh, a name of Hebrew origin derived from נָשָׁה (nashah), meaning "to forget." The name appears in the Old Testament as the eldest son of Joseph and Asenath (Genesis 41:51), where Joseph explains the name by saying, "God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household." Manasseh also became the ancestor of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Additionally, a 7th-century BC king of Judah bore the name; he is noted in the Bible for his long reign and his controversial allowance of idol worship, which led to prophetic condemnation (2 Kings 21).

Cultural Significance

In French contexts, Manassé (pronounced [ma.na.se]) is used primarily as a biblical given name though it remains relatively rare. The name parallels other European vernacular forms such as the Spanish Manasés and Italian Manasse. Among Jewish communities, Manassé is sometimes found in French-speaking regions, particularly where the Bible has had a lasting cultural influence. Today, it may be chosen by parents who appreciate its historical and religious resonance.

Related Forms

The name appears across languages in various adaptations. The Latinized form Manasses appears in the Vulgate Bible. In Hebrew, the original form is Menashshe (מְנַשֶּׁה), which directly carries the meaning "causing to forget." The modern Hebrew pronunciation is Menashe, often used in Israel today. These forms reflect the name's longevity and spread through religious texts.

• Meaning: "Causing to forget"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: First name
• Usage: French, Biblical contexts