Over 400 Amish Names Discovering Journey Through Tradition

Amish Names
by David Harris // January 30  

Many people are often bewildered by the unusual and unique nature of Amish names. This perplexity usually stems from the cultural roots of these names, their historical significance, and how they differ from mainstream naming conventions. People may also struggle with the correct pronunciation and understanding of the cultural context around these names.

Full List of Over 400 Amish Names

Rooted in Biblical origins, German heritage, and the Amish community’s values, these names hold deep meanings that reflect faith, strength, and simplicity. Whether you’re exploring for inspiration or curiosity, this collection showcases a variety of popular, uncommon, and even quirky Amish names, each with its own story to tell.

Name Meaning
Aaron Exalted or strong
Abednego Servant of Nebo
Abi My father
Abiathar Father of abundance
Abigail Father’s joy
Abihu He is my father
Abimelech My father is king
Abiram Exalted father
Abishag Father’s error
Abishai Gift of my father
Abital My father is dew
Abner Father of light
Abraham Father of multitudes
Abram Exalted father
Achan Trouble
Achsah Anklet
Adah Ornament
Adalbert Bright nobility
Adalwin Noble friend
Adelaide Noble kind
Adelheid Noble kind
Adelina Noble kind
Adelind Noble serpent
Adino Ornament or delight
Adonijah My Lord is Yahweh
Adriel Flock of God
Adullam Refuge or retreat
Ahasuerus Prince or chief
Ahaz He has grasped
Ahaziah The Lord holds firm
Ahijah Brother of the Lord
Ahinoam Brother of pleasantness
Ahithophel Brother of foolishness
Albrecht Noble and bright
Alma Nourishing
Alois Famous in battle
Alwine Friend of all
Amalie Work or Industrious
Amariah The Lord has said
Amias Loved
Amminadab My people are noble
Amnon Faithful
Amos Carried by God
Ananias Gift of the Lord
Andre Manly (French Amish variation of Andrew)
Anika Graceful (Swiss Amish diminutive of Anna)
Anna Grace or Favor
Anneliese Grace and God is my oath
Anselm Divine protection
Apphia Fruitful or productive
Ariel Lion of God
Asa Healer or physician
Asahel God has made
Asaph Gatherer
Ashbel Fire of Bel
Athaliah The Lord is exalted
August Majestic or Venerable
Azariah The Lord has helped
Azriel God is my help
Azubah Forsaken
Baal Owner or master
Barak Lightning
Barbara Foreign or Stranger
Barnabas Son of encouragement
Barthol Son of the plowman
Bartholomew Son of Talmai
Basemath Fragrance
Bastian Venerable or revered
Bathsheba Daughter of the oath
Beata Blessed
Beatrice Bringer of joy
Benaiah Built by the Lord
Benedict Blessed one
Benedikt Blessed one (Swiss Amish influence)
Benigna Kind and gentle
Bernhard Strong as a bear
Bernice Bearer of victory
Bertha Bright or shining
Bildad Confusing love
Birgit Exalted or Lofty
Boaz Swiftness
Brigitte Exalted or Lofty
Burkhard Strong as a castle
Cainan Possession
Caleb Faithful or bold
Catharina Pure (variation of Catherine)
Catherine Pure
Cedric Kind and loved
Chilion Wasting away
Christoff Bearer of Christ
Clara Bright or Clear
Claudia Lame or crippled
Clement Merciful and gentle
Clothilde Famous in battle
Conrad Bold counsel
Cornelius Horn
Cyrus Sun or throne
Dagobert Bright day
Damaris Gentle or calf
Daniel God is my judge
Deborah Bee
Dietlinde Soft people
Dietrich Ruler of the people
Dinah God will judge
Dodo Beloved or uncle
Dominic Belonging to the Lord
Dorcas Gazelle
Dorothea Gift of God
Dorothy Gift of God
Drusilla Dewy-eyed
Ebedmelech Servant of the king
Eberhard Brave boar
Edeltraud Noble strength
Edith Prosperous in war
Edwina Rich friend
Elam Eternity
Eleazar Help of God
Eli High or Ascended
Eliakim God raises up
Eliezer My God is help
Elihu My God is He
Elimelech My God is king
Eliphalet God delivers
Eliphaz God of gold
Elisabet God is my oath (Swiss Amish spelling)
Elisheba God is my oath
Elkanah God has created
Elmer Noble and famous
Elsie God is my oath
Engelbert Bright angel
Enoch Dedicated
Ephraim Fruitful
Ephrath Fruitful place
Erika Ruler of all or Eternal ruler
Ernst Serious or Determined
Esther Star
Eunice Good victory
Euodia Good journey
Ezekias The Lord strengthens
Ezekiel God strengthens
Ezer Help or aid
Ezra Help or Helper
Ezri My help
Falk Falcon
Ferdinand Brave traveler or Adventurer
Festus Joyful or festive
Florence Flourishing
Florina Flower
Franzine Free woman
Franziska Free woman (Alsatian Amish origin)
Frieda Peaceful
Friedrich Peaceful ruler
Gad Fortune or luck
Gamaliel Reward of God
Gerda Protected
Gernot Strong spear
Gershom A stranger there
Gertrude Spear of strength
Gertrudis Spear of strength
Gideon Hewer or Warrior
Gisela Pledge or Hostage
Gomer Complete
Gottfried Peace of God
Habakkuk Embraced
Hadassah Myrtle tree
Haggai Festive
Haggith Festive or rejoicing
Hannah Grace
Hans
God is gracious (Swiss Amish variation of John)
Haran Mountaineer
Harriet Home ruler
Hartmut Strong spirit
Heidemarie Noble and famous
Heidi Noble one
Heinrich Home ruler
Heinz
Home ruler (Swiss Amish variant of Heinrich)
Hephzibah My delight is in her
Hepzibah My delight is in her
Hermine Army woman
Hezekiah God strengthens
Hiel God lives
Hildebrand Battle sword
Hildegard Battle guard or Protection in battle
Hilkiah My portion is the Lord
Hiram Exalted brother
Hobab Cherished or loved
Hoglah Dancing or partridge
Hosea Salvation
Huldah Weasel
Hushai Hasty or eager
Ichabod The glory is departed
Ida Industrious
Ines Holy or Chaste
Ingolf Wolf of the god Ing
Irene Peace
Irmelin Whole and soft
Irmgard Whole or universal protection
Isaac He will laugh
Isaiah Salvation of the Lord
Ishmael God listens
Issachar Reward or recompense
Jabez Sorrow or pain
Jacob Supplanter
Jael Mountain goat
Jahaziel Vision of God
Jebediah Beloved friend of the Lord
Jedidiah Beloved of the Lord
Jehoahaz The Lord has grasped
Jehohanan The Lord is gracious
Jehoiada The Lord knows
Jehoiakim The Lord raises up
Jehoram The Lord is exalted
Jehoshaphat The Lord judges
Jehosheba The Lord is an oath
Jehozadak The Lord is righteous
Jemima Dove
Jephthah He will open
Jerusha Inheritance
Jesse Gift or wealthy
Jethro Excellence or abundance
Jetur Enclosure
Jezebel Where is the prince?
Jezreel The Lord sows
Joachim Established by God
Joash Fire of Yahweh
Jochebed God is glory
Johann God is gracious
Johanna God is gracious (female variant of Johann)
John God is gracious
Joktan Small or insignificant
Jonas Dove
Josiah God supports and heals
Jost Yahweh supports (Alsatian Amish origin)
Jotham The Lord is perfect
Jubal Stream or ram’s horn
Julia Youthful
Junia Youthful
Justus Just or righteous
Kaspar Treasurer (Alsatian Amish)
Katharina Pure
Katherine Pure
Kenan Possession or smith
Keren-Happuch Horn of eye-paint
Keturah Incense
Keziah Cassia tree
Kish Hard or difficult
Klara Bright or Clear
Klaus Victory of the people
Konrad Bold advisor
Kriemhild Battle mask
Lamech Powerful or strong
Leah Weary or Delicate
Leander Lion-man
Lemuel Devoted to God
Leopold Brave people
Levi Joined or Attached
Lillian Lily flower
Liselotte God is my oath and free woman
Lo-Ruhamah Not pitied
Lois Better or more desirable
Lorenz Crowned with laurel
Luitgard Guardian of the people
Lydia From Lydia, a region
Magdalena Woman from Magdala or Tower
Mahala Tender or sick
Mahershalalhashbaz Swift is the booty, speedy is the prey
Mahlah Weak or sickly
Mahlon Sickly
Malachi Messenger of God
Malchijah My king is the Lord
Manfred Man of peace
Margaret Pearl
Margareta Pearl (Alsatian Amish spelling)
Marlies Bitter and rebellious
Martha Lady or Mistress
Mary Beloved or Wished-for child
Matthias Gift of God
Mehetabel God makes happy
Mehitabel God makes happy
Meinrad Strong advisor
Mephibosheth From the mouth of shame
Merari Bitter
Merodach Bitter contrition
Meshach Who is what Aku is?
Methuselah Man of the dart
Micah Who is like God?
Micaiah Who is like God?
Micajah Who is like Jehovah?
Michel
Who is like God? (French Amish variant of Michael)
Milcah Queen
Miriam Sea of bitterness
Mordecai Warrior
Naamah Pleasant
Naemi My delight
Nahor Snorting or snorer
Nahum Comforter
Name Meaning
Naomi Pleasantness
Naphtali My struggle
Nathan Gift from God
Nathaniel Gift of God
Nehemiah Comfort of the Lord
Nimrod We will rebel
Noa Motion
Noadiah Meeting of the Lord
Noah Rest or Comfort
Nora Honor
Norbert Bright north
Obadiah Servant of the Lord
Obediah Servant of God
Oholibamah Tent of the high place
Olive Olive tree, symbolizing peace
Onesimus Useful
Ornah Pine tree
Orpah Back of the neck
Othniel Lion of God
Otmar Famous for wealth
Ottilia Fortune in battle
Ottilie Wealthy or Prosperous in battle
Otto Wealth or Prosperity
Ozem Strength
Ozias Strength of the Lord
Pekahiah The Lord opens the eyes
Peleg Division
Peninah Precious stone
Peninnah Coral or pearl
Perez Breach
Persis A Persian woman
Peter Rock or Stone
Petra Rock
Philemon Affectionate or loving
Phineas Oracle
Phoebe Bright or radiant
Priscilla Ancient
Puah Splendid
Quentin Fifth-born
Rachel Ewe
Rahab Broad or spacious
Rainer Army advisor
Rebecca To tie or To bind
Rehoboam The people enlarge
Reinhard Bold counsel
Renate Reborn
Reuben Behold, a son
Reuel Friend of God
Rhoda Rose
Rosalie Rose or Flower
Rosamund Protector of horses
Rose A flower symbolizing love
Rosina Rose
Rudolf Famous wolf
Ruth Companion or Friend
Salome Peace
Samuel Heard by God
Sapphira Beautiful
Sarah Princess
Sebastian Venerable or Revered
Selma Divine protection
Seraiah Prince of the Lord
Shadrach Command of Aku
Shalom Peace
Shaphat He has judged
Shealtiel I have asked of God
Shebna Youth
Shelah Request
Shelumiel Friend of God
Shiloh Tranquility
Shimei Famous or renowned
Shiphrah Beautiful or pleasing
Shobal Flowing
Sibilla Prophetess
Sibylle Prophetess
Siegfried Victory and peace
Siegmund Victorious protector
Silas Wood or Forest
Silvanus Of the forest
Simeon God has heard
Sofie Wisdom
Susanna Lily
Syntyche With fate
Tabitha Gazelle
Tahan Encampment
Tamar Palm tree
Thaddeus Heart or Courageous
Theodore Gift of God
Theresa Harvester
Theresia
Harvester (Swiss Amish spelling of Theresa)
Tikvah Hope
Timothy Honoring God
Tiras Desire
Tirzah Delight
Tobiah The Lord is good
Tobias God is good
Tobijah The Lord is good
Tobit Goodness
Tola Worm
Trophimus Nourishment or growth
Tryphena Delicate
Ulrich Prosperity and power
Uriah God is my light
Urias The Lord is my light
Uriel God is my light
Ursula Little bear
Uzzah Strength of the Lord
Vashti Beautiful or best
Vera Truth
Victor Conqueror
Walburga Power of the castle
Waltraud Strength in rule
Wanda Shepherdess
Wendel Wanderer or Traveler
Wendell Wanderer
Wilhelmine Resolute protector
Wilma Resolute protector
Winifred Blessed peace
Wolfgang Wolf path or Traveling wolf
Yolanda Violet flower
Yvette Yew tree or Archer
Zadok Righteous
Zebedee Gift of God
Zebulon Exalted or Dwelling place
Zebulun Dwelling place or exalted
Zeke God strengthens
Zerah Rising or brightness
Zeresh Star of fortune
Zerubbabel Born in Babylon
Zillah Shade or shadow
Zimmah Wickedness
Zimri My music
Zina Shining or going back
Zion A sign or highest point
Zipporah Bird
Zita Seeker or Little hope
Zophar Chirping or departing
Zur Rock
Zuriel My rock is God

A Blend of Tradition and Heritage

Many Amish communities utilize names that are rooted in the Bible, reflecting their religious beliefs. Names like Mary, John, and Samuel are prevalent. Gender-specific names are also rich in meaning. For example, male names such as Aaron, Jacob, and Eli resonate due to their biblical origins, whereas female names like Esther, Miriam, and Ruth hold the same significance.

Examples of Common Amish Names:

  • Male Names: Eli, Jonas, Levi
  • Female Names: Anna, Leah, Sadie

These names are not only common in the Amish community but also reflect a wider cultural significance in their traditional esteem for Biblical figures.

Cultural Context: Unearthing the Significance Behind Names

Historical Roots of Amish Names

Names have been an integral part of Amish identity for centuries. The Amish trace their lineage back to the Anabaptists in 16th-century Europe, who faced persecution for their beliefs. Emphasizing simplicity, humility, and piety, the Amish carried forward these values into their naming practices.

Naming Conventions Among the Amish

Amish naming traditions emphasize a connection to family and God. People often select names due to their religious meanings, ancestral ties, or their family’s roots within the community.

For instance, it’s common for children to be named after grandparents; this practice fosters a connection to ancestry. Names may also be passed down in specific family lines, where brothers and sisters might share initials or even parts of their names as a tribute to their lineage.

Pros and Cons of Amish Naming Traditions

Pros

  • Connection to Heritage: Names are deeply rooted in culture and history, fostering a strong sense of identity for individuals.
  • Spiritual Significance: Many names reflect virtues desired by the family, such as comfort, strength, and love.
  • Simplicity: Many Amish names are easy to pronounce and spell, representing the community’s emphasis on humility.

Cons

  • Repetitiveness: With a small pool of names, many Amish may share the same or similar names, leading to confusion, especially in larger families.
  • Perception and Misunderstanding: For those outside the community, traditional names may come off as outdated or controversial. This choice of names can lead to misinterpretations of the quality and significance of the names chosen.

Best Practices for Engaging with Amish Names

Engaging with Amish names can be a fascinating journey. To navigate this with respect and accuracy, consider these actionable tips:

  1. Be Respectful: When asking about names, approach with cultural sensitivity.
  2. Use Proper Pronunciation: Dedicate time to learning the names phonetically, as mispronouncing them may come off as disrespectful.
  3. Get Involved: If possible, participate in community events to hear the names in use and observe their significance firsthand.
  4. Explore Literature: Read Amish fiction or nonfiction books that delve into the community’s culture; they often include character names that can offer further insight into naming practices.
  5. Engage with the Community: Build relationships with individuals in the Amish community to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of their names and traditions.

Unique Variations of Amish Names

Amish naming practices also display a fascinating variety regarding spelling and choices. For example, the name “Miriam” may also appear as “Mary” or “Marianne,” depending on regional variations influenced by local dialects.

Modern Influences and Name Changes

While the Amish largely adhere to traditional names, contemporary influences can sometimes inspire naming changes. Names like “Cody” or “Tiffany” can appear within certain groups, reflecting a blend of modernity and tradition.

Examples of Unique Variations:

  • Traditional: Elizabeth may also be shortened to Eliza.
  • Cultural Mix: A name like “Jeb” can be commonplace among some Amish groups that have adopted more modern naming trends.

Noteworthy Anecdotes and Experiences

As a content writer with an eye for cultural narratives, I encountered an insightful story while researching Amish names. One family shared how they decided to name their daughter after a beloved grandmother, who had passed away during childbirth. This act was not just a way to honor her memory; it deepened the connection between generations and reinforced family ties.

Another experience involved a local event where people struggled to remember names due to the myriad of similar names in one large family. A simple system of nicknames emerged as a solution, creating an endearing atmosphere while still honoring the traditional names.

Naming Practices: Regional Variations and Their Influences

The Amish community is not monolithic—there are various groups with distinct practices. For instance, the Swartzentruber Amish are known for their more rigid adherence to traditional names, preferring names that strictly align with biblical origins. Meanwhile, the Beachy Amish may integrate more contemporary names while still honoring their heritage.

How to Choose an Amish Name for Cultural Respect

If you’re considering an Amish name for a child or character, understanding the cultural significance is paramount. Follow these steps to ensure cultural respect:

  1. Do Thorough Research: Delve into the history and meaning of potential names.
  2. Consult Community Members: Engage in conversations with those from the Amish community for authentic insights.
  3. Consider Family Heritage: Acknowledge any family connections to ensure the name honors your ancestry.
  4. Balance Tradition and Modernity: If you want to blend traditional and modern influences, maintain a focus on meaningful aspects of both.

Using these steps will guide you in selecting an Amish name that is not only beautiful but also culturally rich and respectful.

Exploring the Future of Amish Naming Trends

A shift in naming practices is beginning to emerge among the Amish communities as younger generations interact more with outside influences. This trend could lead to more diverse naming options that still maintain a connection to tradition. Observing these changes could reflect broader societal trends concerning acceptance and integration.

Amish names carry centuries of history, belief, and identity, making them a unique lens through which to understand this fascinating culture. Engaging with these names requires sensitivity, research, and an open heart, paving the way for deeper cultural connections.

Troubleshooting Selecting an Amish Name: Common Scenarios and Solutions

Choosing an Amish name can be an exciting yet challenging process. Names in Amish communities often hold deep significance, reflecting family heritage, religious values, or regional traditions. Here, we’ll troubleshoot specific scenarios that might arise when selecting an Amish name and offer practical solutions.

Scenario 1: Family Heritage Confusion

Problem: You want to honor your family’s heritage in a name but are unsure of the traditions to follow. Your grandmother suggested a name that has been passed down for generations, but family members disagree on its pronunciation.

Solution: Start by researching the family tree. Speak with older relatives to gather input on how names have historically been used within your family. Create a list of names with their meanings and family significance. Once you have this information, gather family members to discuss their preferences. If disagreements persist, consider using a variation of the traditional name that everyone can agree on, ensuring it still retains the essential family connection.

Scenario 2: Cultural Appropriateness

Problem: You’ve found a name you love, but a friend has pointed out that it may not align with Amish cultural practices. You fear it might offend some community members.

Solution: Reach out to Amish friends or community leaders for guidance. Share your research on the name and its origins. They can help clarify whether it fits within the cultural norms of the community. If your chosen name is deemed inappropriate, don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions. Many Amish communities appreciate the sincere interest and will often provide alternative names that are meaningful and well-received.

Scenario 3: Modern Trends vs. Traditional Roots

Problem: You’re torn between selecting a trendy name that you and your friends love and a more traditional Amish name that your family expects.

Solution: Create a shortlist that includes a mix of traditional and modern names. Involve family members in a discussion, asking them to rank their preferences. Highlight the importance of both elements—cultural significance and personal connection. If you choose a more modern name, consider adding a traditional middle name to reflect your heritage. This compromise can bring both sides together while honoring your tastes.

Scenario 4: Uniqueness vs. Familiarity

Problem: You desire a unique name that stands out but worry about how your choice will be perceived in a closely-knit Amish community, where many prefer familiar names.

Solution: Craft a list of unique names that still have ties to Amish culture or language. Check their meanings to ensure they align with the values you want to convey. Instead of solely relying on unique names, look for variations of familiar names that might offer that desired distinctiveness. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, discuss them with community members. Their feedback can be invaluable in assessing how well your name will be embraced.

Scenario 5: Name Length and Simplicity

Problem: You love longer, traditional Amish names but worry that they might be cumbersome for everyday use or difficult for others to pronounce.

Solution: Try writing out potential names and saying them aloud to gauge how natural they sound in conversation. If a name feels too long or complicated, consider using a simple nickname that could stem from the longer name. For example, if you choose “Samuel,” you might opt to have people call you “Sam.” This way, you enjoy the traditional name while making it easier for those around you to interact with you on a daily basis.

By addressing these specific scenarios directly, you can navigate the complexities of selecting an Amish name with confidence and care, ensuring that your choice resonates with both your personal values and community traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to Amish Names

Q. What are some common names among the Amish?
A. Common Amish names often include traditional German or Swiss names such as Jacob, Emma, Samuel, and Mary.

Q. Do Amish people have middle names?
A. Many Amish individuals do not use middle names, as it is not a common practice in their culture, but some may have them.

Q. Are Amish names influenced by biblical figures?
A. Yes, many Amish names are influenced by the Bible, with names like Abraham, Ruth, and Daniel being quite popular.

Q. Why do Amish families often reuse names?
A. Amish families may name children after relatives or ancestors to honor their family heritage, often leading to the reuse of names across generations.

Q. Are there naming traditions unique to certain Amish communities?
A. Yes, different Amish communities may have unique naming traditions, sometimes influenced by their specific cultural or historical backgrounds.

Q. How do the spelling of Amish names differ from that of other cultures?
A. Some Amish names may have unique spellings or variations, reflecting their German or Swiss roots, such as “Katherine” being spelled as “Kathryn.”

Q. Do Amish people use surnames?
A. Yes, Amish people have surnames, which are often derived from their ancestors’ trades or locations, such as “Mast,” “Yoder,” or “Beiler.”

Q. Are there restrictions on naming in Amish culture?
A. Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but names are typically chosen to reflect family traditions and cultural values.

Q. Can Amish names indicate the community or sect an individual belongs to?
A. Yes, certain names or naming practices can be associated with specific Amish groups, reflecting their unique beliefs and traditions.

Q. How does the Amish community feel about modern or trendy names?
A. The Amish generally prefer traditional and timeless names over modern or trendy ones, as they value simplicity and heritage in their culture.

Conclusion

In exploring the fascinating world of Amish names, we uncover not only a rich tapestry of tradition and culture but also the deep-rooted values that shape the Amish community. These names often carry significant meanings and reflect the family’s heritage, offering insights into their way of life. Understanding the significance behind Amish names can deepen our appreciation for their unique customs and the importance they place on identity and family. From simple, timeless names to those with profound spiritual meanings, Amish naming traditions continue to thrive, illustrating the resilience and continuity of their culture in a changing world.

Disclaimer: This article on Amish Names is intended to provide valuable insights and understanding of the Amish community’s naming traditions. For further exploration, visit the Elizabethtown College’s Young Center and the Amish Studies website. These reputable sources offer in-depth research and information on Amish culture. By reading this article, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of names in Amish society, and the provided sources will enhance your knowledge and understanding of this unique community’s customs and traditions.

About the Author

David Harris is a content writer at Adazing with 20 years of experience navigating the ever-evolving worlds of publishing and technology. Equal parts editor, tech enthusiast, and caffeine connoisseur, he’s spent decades turning big ideas into polished prose. As a former Technical Writer for a cloud-based publishing software company and a Ghostwriter of over 60 books, David’s expertise spans technical precision and creative storytelling. At Adazing, he brings a knack for clarity and a love of the written word to every project—while still searching for the keyboard shortcut that refills his coffee.