אֵלִיָּהוּ

Elijah

boyHebrewChristianJewish

Elijah is a Christian boy name of Hebrew origin, meaning “My God is Yahweh”.

MeaningMy God is Yahweh
GenderBoy
OriginHebrew
Written asאֵלִיָּהוּ
Pronunciationih-LYE-juh
TraditionChristian, Jewish
Used inUnited States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia

Meaning and origin of Elijah

Elijah is the English form of the Hebrew Eliyahu, joining Eli, 'my God', with Yahu, a form of the divine name. The prophet Elijah, whose story is told in 1 and 2 Kings, challenges the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel and is taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire. Elijah has been one of the most popular boys' names in the United States in recent years.

Is Elijah a Christian name?

In Judaism Elijah is expected to announce the Messiah, and a cup is set for him at the Passover seder. In Christianity he appears at the Transfiguration, and in Islam he is the prophet Ilyas.

How popular is Elijah?

Very popular in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Elijah

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Spellings and variants of Elijah

EliasEliyahuElieIlyasElia

Names similar to Elijah

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Elijah mean?

Elijah means 'My God is Yahweh'. It is of Hebrew origin.

Is Elijah a Christian name?

In Judaism Elijah is expected to announce the Messiah, and a cup is set for him at the Passover seder. In Christianity he appears at the Transfiguration, and in Islam he is the prophet Ilyas.

How do you pronounce Elijah?

Elijah is pronounced ih-LYE-juh.

Is Elijah a boy or girl name?

Elijah is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.