יִשַׁי

Yishai

boyHebrewJewish

Yishai is a Jewish boy name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Of debated meaning; often 'gift'”.

MeaningOf debated meaning; often 'gift'
GenderBoy
OriginHebrew
Written asיִשַׁי
Pronunciationyee-SHY
TraditionJewish
Used inIsrael, United States

Meaning and origin of Yishai

Yishai is the Hebrew form of Jesse, the father of King David. Its meaning is debated: explanations include 'gift', 'God exists' and 'man', and none is certain. In the Book of Isaiah the 'shoot from the stump of Jesse' became an image of the coming Messiah from David's line. In Israel the short form Shai is very popular.

Is Yishai a Jewish name?

Yishai is a biblical name through Jesse of Bethlehem, father of David, whose lineage carries messianic hope in both Jewish and Christian tradition.

How popular is Yishai?

Used in Israel and in religious Jewish communities abroad.

Gifts with the name Yishai

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Spellings and variants of Yishai

JesseIshaiIsaiShai

Names similar to Yishai

More Jewish boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Yishai mean?

Yishai means 'Of debated meaning; often 'gift''. It is of Hebrew origin.

Is Yishai a Jewish name?

Yishai is a biblical name through Jesse of Bethlehem, father of David, whose lineage carries messianic hope in both Jewish and Christian tradition.

How do you pronounce Yishai?

Yishai is pronounced yee-SHY.

Is Yishai a boy or girl name?

Yishai is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.