Meaning & History
Leah is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin, best known from the Old Testament. The name is derived from the Hebrew word לָאָה (la'ah), meaning "weary" or "grieved." Alternatively, it may be related to the Akkadian word littu, meaning "cow," a title associated with ancient goddesses such as Inanna, Urash, and Nanshe.
Biblical Significance
In the Old Testament (Genesis 29-30), Leah is the first wife of Jacob and the older sister of Rachel, who was Jacob's favored wife. Leah became the mother of seven of Jacob's children: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and a daughter, Dinah. According to the biblical narrative, Rachel initially was unable to conceive, and Leah offered her handmaid Zilpah to Jacob, allowing him to have more children through her. The story highlights the familial rivalry and Leah's quest for Jacob's love.
Historical Usage
The name Leah was used by Jews in the Middle Ages. However, it did not become common among English Christians until after the Protestant Reformation, particularly among Puritans, who drew names directly from the Bible. In English-speaking countries, Leah gained popularity in the 19th century and remains a well-used name today.
Variants and Forms
Leah has several international variants: in Hebrew, Lea; in French, Léa; in Portuguese and Swedish, Lea or Lia; in Portuguese also Leia; in Ukrainian, Liya; and in Norwegian, Ea 2.
Key Facts
- Meaning: "weary, grieved" (Hebrew) or "cow" (Akkadian)
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: First name
- Usage regions: Hebrew, English, English Bible
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Leah