Magen is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the word "magen," which means "shield" in English. The name has historical significance in Jewish culture and tradition.
In the Hebrew Bible, Magen is mentioned as one of the seven names given to God, representing His protective nature. This association makes the name Magen highly respected among Jews and carries a deep spiritual meaning for many.
The name Magen is also associated with the Maccabees, a group of Jewish warriors who fought against their Greek-Syrian oppressors around 167 BCE. One of the leaders of this group was named Judas Maccabaeus, whose nickname "Magen HaShekel" translates to "Shield of the Coin." This title was given in reference to his bravery and protectiveness towards his people during the Maccabean Revolt.
Today, Magen is not a very common name but it remains popular among Jewish families who appreciate its historical and spiritual significance. It is often used as both a first and middle name for boys and occasionally for girls. The name has also been adopted by some non-Jewish families who are drawn to its powerful meaning of protection and strength.
In conclusion, the name Magen carries significant historical and cultural weight, representing protection, bravery, and spirituality. Its origins in Hebrew scriptures and association with famous Jewish warriors make it a meaningful choice for parents looking for a unique and deeply symbolic name for their child.
The statistics provided show the number of babies named Magen born each year in the United States from 1970 to 2013. The name's popularity peaked in 1985 with 226 births, which was more than twice the number of births in any other year during this period. From then on, the number of babies named Magen decreased steadily, reaching a low of 5 births in 2013.
Overall, there were a total of 3,346 babies named Magen born in the United States between 1970 and 2013. While the name was quite popular during the late 1970s and early to mid-1980s, it has since become less common. Despite this decline, Magen remains a unique and distinctive name with a rich history of usage in the United States.