שם טוב

Shem Tov is a unique and traditional Hebrew name composed of two separate words that together create a profound and meaningful significance. The name expresses one of the central values in Judaism - the importance of reputation and the good name that a person builds for themselves throughout their life. In rabbinic literature, the famous phrase "A good name is better than precious oil" from the Book of Ecclesiastes appears, emphasizing that a person's reputation and good deeds are more important than any material wealth. The name Shem Tov testifies to values of integrity, honesty, kindness, and good deeds, expressing the hope that the child will grow to become a person of solid character and high morals. The name Shem Tov was particularly common among Sephardic Jews and Jewish communities in the Middle East, carrying with it a rich tradition of Jewish wisdom and culture. During the medieval period, the name was especially popular among respected Jewish families, typically given to sons born into families that particularly valued moral principles and good character traits. The name also expresses the deep connection between personal identity and the deeds and reputation that a person builds throughout their life. In Jewish tradition, the name a person bears is not merely an identifying label, but rather reflects their inner essence and the way they are perceived by others. Today, the name Shem Tov is considered traditional and relatively rare, yet it still carries deep and relevant meaning. Parents who choose this name for their child express their desire that the child will grow to become a person of values, whose good deeds will be their true legacy. The name reminds us that the most important thing in life is not wealth or external honor, but the good name and reputation we build through our actions, our treatment of others, and our way of life. This is a name that encourages and inspires, reminding us of the importance of moral and meaningful living.

שֵׁם טוֹב

Shem Tov | Shemtov | Shemtob

Boy

No

Ecclesiastes 7:1 - A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth

In Kabbalah, Shem Tov represents the connection between the soul and the good deeds it performs in this world. The name carries energy of moral purity and good character traits, symbolizing the way a person influences the world around them through their actions.

357

6

Shem Tov ibn Shaprut - Medieval Sephardic Jewish philosopher | Shem Tov ben Isaac ibn Shaprut - Famous Sephardic physician and translator | Shem Tov Gaon - 19th century Moroccan rabbi and scholar

טוביה | טובי