Zoah is a unique and captivating name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "Tzoah," which means "deer." In Jewish tradition, deer are often associated with grace, beauty, and speed. Thus, the name Zoah signifies qualities such as elegance, swiftness, and agility.
The name Zoah has a rich history in Jewish culture. It is believed to have been used since ancient times, appearing in various biblical texts and historical records. However, it was not until the late 20th century that Zoah began to gain popularity as a given name for children in English-speaking countries.
One of the earliest references to the name Zoah can be found in the Book of Psalms (92:10), where it is mentioned alongside other creatures like the cedar tree and the olive tree. This verse praises God's steadfast love, saying that even though these things may wither and fade, "the deer [Tzoah] finds new strength." This passage has inspired many throughout history to adopt Zoah as a name, attributing to it qualities of resilience and perseverance.
Another notable reference to the name Zoah appears in the Talmud, where it is used to describe a type of delicate, swift-footed deer. The Talmud also associates this creature with wisdom and learning, further enriching the symbolic significance of the name Zoah.
Today, Zoah continues to be a distinctive and meaningful name choice for parents looking to honor their Jewish heritage or simply seeking an uncommon yet profound moniker for their child. Despite its ancient roots, Zoah remains fresh and modern, appealing to those who wish to celebrate uniqueness and strength in their little ones' names.
The name Zoah has seen a steady but relatively low number of births each year in the United States over the past few years. According to recent statistics, there were 7 babies named Zoah born in the US in 2017. This number then decreased slightly to 5 births in both 2019 and 2020. However, it seems that the popularity of the name has been growing again, as there were 6 babies named Zoah born in 2021. Overall, since 2017, there have been a total of 23 babies named Zoah born in the United States.
While these numbers might seem small compared to more popular names, it's important to note that choosing a unique name for one's child can be just as meaningful and special. Each baby born with the name Zoah is adding their own story and identity to the growing community of people sharing this distinctive name.