עתליה

Athaliah is an ancient Hebrew name with deep and complex significance. The name is composed of two linguistic elements: "et" meaning time or era, and "yah" which is one of the names of God in Biblical Hebrew. The literal meaning of the name is "time of the Lord" or "God's appointed time," expressing the idea that the person bearing this name was born at a time determined by divine providence, or that their life is specially connected to God's will. The name carries within it the tension between human temporality and divine eternity, between earthly history and heavenly plan. In the Bible, Athaliah is a fascinating and highly complex figure. She was the daughter of King Ahab of Israel and Jezebel the Sidonian, both known for their controversial leadership and promotion of foreign worship in Israel. Athaliah married Jehoram son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, creating a family connection between the two kingdoms. After the death of her husband and her son Ahaziah, who was killed by Jehu, Athaliah took a dramatic and cruel step: she carried out a massacre of the royal house and killed all the royal seed in order to seize power herself. Only Joash, her infant grandson, survived thanks to his sister Jehosheba who managed to hide him in the temple. For six years Athaliah ruled the kingdom of Judah, and she is the only woman in the Bible who reigned in her own right rather than as queen mother or regent. Her reign ended when Jehoiada the priest crowned Joash as king, and Athaliah was executed. Athaliah's character raises profound questions about power, ambition, family legacy, and the role of women in political leadership in the ancient world. Despite the complex and controversial biblical connection, the name Athaliah continued to be used among Jews throughout the generations, albeit with relatively low frequency. In modern times, the name has seen some revival in Israel, especially among families seeking rare biblical names with strong character. Women bearing the name Athaliah are often perceived as having strong personalities, independence, and leadership abilities. The name conveys a sense of power, determination, and the ability to stand one's ground. In an era when women seek names that express strength and independence, Athaliah offers an interesting alternative to more traditional feminine names. The name carries within it the complexity of human history, reminding us that greatness and failure, power and cruelty, can coexist within the same human soul.

עֲתַלְיָה

Athaliah | Attalia | Atalya

Girl

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2 Kings 11:1 - When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal seed

In Kabbalah, the name Athaliah represents feminine power in its most potent form, the ability to influence the course of history and make fateful decisions. The name expresses the tension between divine providence and free will, and the power inherent in understanding the right time for action. It symbolizes leadership, determination, and courage.

515

2

Atalia Shamlzer - Israeli actress | Atalya Peres - artist | Atalia Lavi - attorney

עדיה

548 times