Samson

שִׁמְשׁוֹן

• Gender: Male
• Origin: Biblical English
• Meaning: sun

• Samson, or Shimshon in Hebrew, is the legendary strongman of the Book of Judges whose name derives from shemesh, the Hebrew word for sun. His story of supernatural strength, dramatic downfall, and final act of redemption is one of the most gripping narratives in the entire Bible. It is a name that practically radiates physical vitality and larger-than-life energy.

  The original modern Samson was Zishe Breitbart, the legendary Jewish strongman of 1920s Europe who bent iron bars while wearing a Star of David and reportedly inspired the creators of Superman. Bold, muscular biblical names with built-in stories are having a real moment, and this one leads the pack. It offers the friendly nickname Sam while carrying a far more dramatic backstory than Samuel. The solar energy baked into its etymology means your little Samson was quite literally named for the sun.

• Hebrew Equivalent:
  Shimshon
• Potential Sibling Name:
  Deborah
  ,
  Ruth
  ,
  Levi
  ,
  Gideon
• Theme: nature