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The Israeli Names Portal

גדעון


Meaning of the name גדעון

Gideon is an ancient and impressive Hebrew name, carrying rich historical and moral significance. The name derives from the Hebrew root G.D.A (גדע), meaning 'to cut down', 'to hew', or 'to fell'. This meaning gives the name a character of determination, decisiveness, and strength - qualities that characterize the famous biblical bearer of this name. In the Bible, Gideon is a central and fascinating figure - the fifth judge of Israel, who operated during a turbulent period of spiritual and national crisis. Gideon son of Joash the Abiezrite emerged as a charismatic and courageous leader who led the people of Israel to a spectacular victory over the Midianites. His story is described extensively in the Book of Judges (chapters 6-8), and it is one of the most dramatic and inspiring stories in the Bible. Gideon was also known by the name 'Jerubbaal' - a name given to him after he destroyed his father's altar to Baal, meaning 'let Baal contend' or 'let Baal plead against him'. This act made him a symbol of the struggle against idolatry and of loyalty to the God of Israel. What makes Gideon's character unique is the combination of humility and courage. At the beginning of his journey, he is described as a simple man threshing wheat in a winepress, hiding from the Midianites. When the angel of the Lord appears to him and calls him a 'mighty warrior', Gideon responds with skepticism and humility, asking how he could possibly save Israel. However, after receiving signs and wonders, he transforms into a determined and brave leader. His famous victory over the Midianites with only three hundred warriors - using trumpets, jars, and torches - became a symbol of faith, courage, and resourcefulness. His brilliant strategy, based on surprise and psychological exploitation of the enemy, demonstrates leadership thinking and ingenuity. In Jewish culture, the name Gideon carries meanings of heroism, leadership, and spiritual renewal. It symbolizes the power to face challenges, to fight against idolatry and corruption, and to lead the people in difficult times. The name is associated with values of courage, loyalty to principles, and the ability to act with determination even in the face of difficulties. Gideon is also a name that expresses a deep connection to tradition and sources, while maintaining contemporary relevance. In modern Israel, the name also carries Zionist and national connotations, associated with values of heroism and defense of the homeland. The organization 'Gideons International', which distributes Bibles worldwide, is named after Judge Gideon, symbolizing the mission of spreading faith and the biblical message.

The name גדעון with vowels

גִּדְעוֹן

The name גדעון in English

Gideon | Gidon

גדעון is mainly suitable for

Boy

Is the name גדעון considered international

No

Origin of the name גדעון from the Bible

Judges 6:12 - And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him, and said unto him, The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valor

Origin of the name גדעון from Kabbalah

In Kabbalah, the name Gideon symbolizes the power of 'cutting down' - severing the kelipot (husks) and the sitra achra (other side). It represents the ability to cut away and remove spiritual obstacles, and to connect to the root of holiness. The name carries an energy of transformation, of transition from darkness to light, and of courageous spiritual leadership. The gematria of Gideon is 127, corresponding to the word 'olam' (world), suggesting the ability to influence the entire world.

Gematria value for the name גדעון

133

=

3

ג

+

4

ד

+

70

ע

+

6

ו

+

50

ן

Numerology value for the name גדעון

7

=

3

ג

+

4

ד

+

70

ע

+

6

ו

+

50

ן

=

133

=

1

+

3

+

3

=

7

Famous people named גדעון

Gideon Levy - Israeli journalist and author | Gideon Sa'ar - Israeli politician | Gidi Gov - Israeli actor and singer | Gideon Raff - Israeli film and television director | Gideon Hausner - Israeli lawyer and prosecutor

Names similar to גדעון

Total times the name גדעון was registered

3096 times

Graph of the name גדעון

* Source: Central Bureau of Statistics. As of April 2022