Yemima is the Hebrew form of
Jemima, used in modern Hebrew and in the original text of the Hebrew Bible. The name is best known as that of the eldest of the three daughters of
Job, mentioned in the Book of Job (Job 42:14). After Job’s restoration, his daughters—Yemima, Keziah, and Keren-happuch—were noted for their beauty and received an inheritance alongside their brothers, a rare distinction in biblical times.
Etymology
While traditionally interpreted as meaning "dove," the name Yemima may derive from the Hebrew word
yomam (daytime), suggesting a meaning of "bright as day." The connection to doves has been prevalent in Christian and Jewish tradition, though scholarly debate continues about its exact origin.
Cultural and Religious Significance
In the Jewish faith, Yemima symbolizes blessing and restoration. In the Christian context, the name appears in the Old Testament as Jemima, and the Puritans revived it as a virtue name associated with peace and purity. In modern Israel, Yemima is used as both a given name and a reference to Job’s daughter.
- Meaning: Possibly \"dove\" or \"daytime\", bright
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: Biblical
- Usage: Hebrew, Hebrew Bible, Modern Israeli
- Related: Jemima (English), Jemimah (variant)