נפתלי

Naftali is an ancient and impressive Hebrew name, deeply woven into the history of the people of Israel and biblical tradition. The name carries rich meanings of struggle, perseverance, and overcoming difficulties. Naftali was the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's handmaid. Rachel herself chose the name, and it reflects the internal and external struggle she waged with her sister Leah over Jacob's love and the privilege of bearing him children. The root 'N.P.T.L' is related to the verb 'niftal' meaning to wrestle, struggle, compete, or twist. Thus, the name expresses the emotional and spiritual wrestling Rachel experienced, and in a broader sense - the human capacity to face challenges and emerge from them strengthened. In the Bible, the tribe of Naftali held a central place in Israel's history. The tribe received its portion in the Upper Galilee, a mountainous and excellent region known for its natural beauty and fertility. Jacob blessed Naftali before his death with a special and moving blessing: 'Naphtali is a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words' (Genesis 49:21). This blessing compares Naftali to a freed deer, free and swift, speaking pleasant and beautiful words. This imagery gives the name an additional meaning of freedom, agility, nobility of spirit, and beauty in communication. Indeed, the tribe of Naftali was known for its speed and valor in battle, as described in the Song of Deborah, where the tribe was praised for its part in the war against Sisera. The prophetess Deborah mentions Naftali alongside Zebulun as tribes that risked their lives unto death for the sanctification of God's name. Throughout the generations, the name Naftali has carried this rich biblical heritage and has become a symbol of standing firm against difficulties, determination, courage, and spiritual beauty. The name bears a noble and profound character, connecting Rachel's internal struggle with the strength and freedom that the tribe represents. Today, Naftali is a traditional and respected name in Israeli society, chosen by families wishing to connect their children to biblical heritage and give them a name with deep historical and spiritual significance. The name is particularly suitable for parents seeking a name that combines strength and gentleness, struggle and beauty, tradition and contemporary meaning.

נַפְתָּלִי

Naftali | Naphtali | Naftaly

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Genesis 49:21 - Naphtali is a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words

In Kabbalah, the name Naftali represents the power of spiritual struggle and perseverance. It is connected to the Sefirah of Hod, expressing submission and acknowledgment after struggle. The root of the name teaches about the ability to transcend through difficulties and transform struggle into a source of strength. Jacob's blessing, comparing Naftali to a freed hind, symbolizes spiritual freedom and lightness of soul that comes after overcoming trials.

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Naftali Herz Imber - Hebrew poet, author of Hatikvah | Naftali Bennett - Former Prime Minister of Israel, politician | Naftali Alter - Hasidic rabbi, Gerrer Rebbe | Naftali Zvi Yehuda Berlin (Netziv) - Head of Volozhin Yeshiva | Naftali Hacohen Katz - Member of Knesset and public activist

נתנאל | אלנתן | נתן | יונתן | מתתיהו

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