Chodesh
Feminine
Hebrew Bible
Meaning & Origin
Chodesh is a Hebrew name appearing in the Old Testament, specifically as a feminine given name. It is a variant of Hodesh, which directly means "new moon, month" in Hebrew. In the Biblical context, Chodesh is mentioned as the wife of Shaharaim, a figure from the tribe of Benjamin (according to 1 Chronicles 8:9). The name's connection to the lunar cycle reflects the cultural and religious significance of the new moon in ancient Israelite society, where it marked the beginning of months and was associated with festivals and religious observances.
The name Shaharaim is also tied to the same genealogy, as Chodesh is listed among his wives. This makes Chodesh part of the complex genealogical records in the Book of Chronicles, which trace the lineages of the tribes of Israel. The appearance of the name in such a context suggests that it may have been a fairly common name among the Israelites during the biblical period, albeit one that is now rare outside of religious or historical reference.
Etymology and Significance
The root meaning of "new moon" is directly tied to the Hebrew word chodesh (or ḥodesh), which is also the word for "month." The new moon was a celebrated time in ancient Israel, marked by the blowing of trumpets and special sacrifices (Numbers 28:11-15). Naming a child Chodesh could symbolize renewal, hope, and divine timing.
Meaning: "new moon" or "month"
Origin: Hebrew
Type: First Name
Usage: Hebrew Bible
Regional Distribution: Israelite culture (antiquity)