Tekoa is a masculine given name used primarily in English Bible contexts. It derives from a Hebrew place name and personal name appearing in the Old Testament. The name's meaning is uncertain, possibly meaning either "stockade" or "horn, trumpet" in Hebrew.
Etymology and Biblical Context
The name Tekoa (תָּקוֹעַ in Hebrew) occurs in the Bible as both a town and a person. As a place, Tekoa was a city in the hill country of Judah, south of Jerusalem, known as the birthplace of the prophet Amos (Amos 1:1). It is also associated with a wise woman who intervened in a political dispute (2 Samuel 14). As a personal name, Tekoa is listed among the descendants of Ashhur in 1 Chronicles 4:5.
Usage and Distribution
Tekoa is a rare given name outside of biblical scholarship or religious communities. It occasionally appears as a first name in English-speaking countries, particularly among those seeking unique names with biblical roots. It is more commonly used as a surname or place name, such as in the town of Tekoa in Washington state. The name's strong ties to the Old Testament give it a distinctive, ancient resonance.
Variants and related forms include the Hebrew original Tekoa and the anglicized Tema (though not directly related).
- Meaning: "stockade" or "horn, trumpet"
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: First name
- Usage region: English-speaking countries (biblical contexts)