עתניאל

Othniel is an ancient Hebrew name carrying profound spiritual significance and rich historical heritage. The name is composed of two elements: 'et' meaning time or season, and 'niel' or 'el' referring to God, thus the complete meaning is 'time of God' or 'God's appointed time'. This name conveys a deep understanding of divine timing, of fateful moments when heavenly providence operates in the life of individuals and nations. The dual meaning of the name grants it considerable depth: on one hand, it expresses recognition of the special times ordained by the Creator, and on the other hand, it symbolizes a person who merits being God's emissary at a particular moment in history. Othniel son of Kenaz is a central figure in the Book of Judges, considered the first judge of Israel after the death of Joshua. He was the nephew of Caleb son of Jephunneh, one of the two faithful spies who merited entering the Land of Israel. Othniel became renowned for his courage and wisdom when he conquered Kiriath-sepher (Debir), thereby winning the hand of Achsah, Caleb's daughter, in marriage. This deed testifies to his bravery and determination to achieve his goals. Later, when Israel was subjugated under Cushan-rishathaim, king of Aram-naharaim, Othniel arose and delivered the people from bondage. He served as judge for forty years, a period of peace and prosperity for the nation of Israel. His character symbolizes ideal leadership - a combination of military strength, spiritual wisdom, and moral integrity. In Jewish tradition, Othniel holds a special status as the exemplar among the judges. The sages view him as a model of righteous leadership who acted from pure faith and devotion to his people. The name Othniel carries the heritage of the wilderness generation, of unwavering faith and willingness to fight for justice. In the modern era, this name resurfaces among families seeking to connect their children to ancient Hebrew heritage and the values of courage and leadership. The name is particularly suitable for parents desiring a rare and distinctive name with historical depth and spiritual meaning, a name that testifies to deep connection with sources and expectation for a future filled with success and worthy leadership.

עָתְנִיאֵל

Othniel | Atniel | Osniel

Boy and Girl

No

Judges 3:9 - And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, and the LORD raised up a savior to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother

In Kabbalah, the name Othniel represents the connection between earthly time and divine time, the ability to recognize fateful moments and act within them with spiritual power. The name carries the sefirah of Netzach - victory and endurance, and is linked to forces of heroism and salvation. The kabbalistic dimension of the name emphasizes the person as an emissary of providence in times of crisis.

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3

Othniel Schneller - social activist and community leader | Othniel Cook - educator and biblical scholar

נתניאל | אלעזר | יהושע | גדעון | שמשון