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As a theologian and linguist, I undertake the task of examining the claim that Jesus’ Hebrew name should be rendered as “Yahshua,” a proposition that lacks substantiation in ancient Hebrew or Aramaic sources. This analysis, grounded in linguistic, historical, and theological perspectives, elucidates the origins and significance of Jesus’ name, affirming “Yeshua” (ישׁוּע) or “Yehoshua” (יהושׁוע) as the authentic Hebrew forms, while addressing the speculative nature of “Yahshua.” The discussion integrates textual evidence, etymological analysis, and the cultural-linguistic context of the Second Temple period to clarify the name’s form and meaning.
In the Judeo-Greek of the New Testament, Jesus’ name is consistently written as Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). This Greek transliteration corresponds to the Hebrew name Yeshua (ישׁוּע) or its longer form, Yehoshua (יהושׁוע), both of which were prevalent among Jews during the Second Temple period (circa 516 BCE–70 CE). The name Yeshua appears nearly thirty times in the Hebrew Bible, referring to various individuals (e.g., Ezra 3:2; Nehemiah 3:19; 1 Chronicles 24:11). Similarly, Yehoshua, most famously associated with Joshua, the successor of Moses, is well-attested in biblical texts (e.g., Numbers 13:16). These names, rooted in Hebrew linguistic tradition, provide the foundation for understanding Jesus’ name.
Etymologically, Yehoshua (יהושׁוע) is a compound name derived from two Hebrew roots: the theophoric element יהו (Yahu), a shortened form of the divine name YHWH (the Tetragrammaton), and the verb ישע (yasha‘), meaning “to save” or “to deliver.” Thus, Yehoshua can be translated as “YHWH saves” or “the Lord is salvation.” Yeshua (ישׁוּע), a post-exilic contraction of Yehoshua, simplifies the pronunciation while retaining the core meaning. The shorter form likely emerged due to phonetic shifts in late Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic, where the initial yod-heh (יה) of Yehoshua was reduced, yielding Yeshua. In this context, Yeshua may be interpreted as “he [the Lord] saves” or simply “salvation,” depending on syntactic nuance.
The equivalence of Yeshua and Yehoshua in Judeo-Greek is significant. The Greek Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) does not distinguish between the two Hebrew forms, as the Greek language lacks the phonetic precision to reflect the subtle differences in Hebrew vocalization. Consequently, both Yeshua and Yehoshua are rendered as Ἰησοῦς in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) and the New Testament. For example, Joshua son of Nun is called Ἰησοῦς in the Septuagint (e.g., Joshua 1:1), as is Jesus of Nazareth in the Gospels. This linguistic continuity underscores the shared identity of the names across Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek contexts.
The theological significance of Jesus’ name is explicitly articulated in Matthew’s Gospel: “You shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). This statement draws a direct connection between the name Yeshua and its semantic root, ישע (to save). In Hebrew, the name Yeshua is phonetically and conceptually linked to the noun יְשׁוּעָה (yeshu‘ah), meaning “salvation.” Matthew’s assertion reflects a wordplay: Jesus (Yeshua) is named “salvation” because he embodies the divine act of saving God’s people. This interpretation aligns with Jewish naming practices, where names often carried theological or prophetic weight, reflecting the bearer’s role or divine purpose.
The roots of Yeshua likely incorporate both the verb היה (hayah), meaning “to be” or “to exist,” and ישע (yasha‘), “to save.” The element יה (yah) in Yehoshua connects to the divine name and the verb “to be,” as YHWH is associated with eternal existence (cf. Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM”). Simultaneously, the salvation motif (ישע) underscores the redemptive mission attributed to Jesus in Christian theology. This dual etymology enriches the name’s significance, suggesting both divine presence and deliverance. However, the precise interplay of these roots in Yeshua’s formation remains a matter of scholarly discussion, as ancient Hebrew names often blended multiple semantic layers.
In contrast, the proposed name “Yahshua” lacks any attestation in ancient Hebrew or Aramaic sources. Proponents of “Yahshua” argue that it combines “Yah” (a shortened form of YHWH) and “shua” (from a root meaning “to save” or “to cry for help”). Theologically, “Yahshua” might seem appealing, as it could be interpreted as “Yah saves,” aligning with the salvific role of Jesus. However, this form is linguistically problematic. The Hebrew verb for “to save” is ישע (yasha‘), not שׁוּעַ (shu‘a), which is related to crying out or seeking help (cf. Psalm 28:2). Moreover, no known Jewish texts from the Second Temple period or earlier use “Yahshua” as a personal name. The Dead Sea Scrolls, rabbinic literature, and other contemporary sources consistently attest Yeshua or Yehoshua, but never “Yahshua.”
The absence of “Yahshua” in historical records suggests it is a modern construction, possibly arising from a desire to emphasize the divine name (Yah) in Jesus’ identity. While this impulse reflects theological creativity, it lacks empirical support. Linguistic analysis of Hebrew naming conventions reveals that theophoric names typically follow patterns like Yehoshua (יהושׁוע), Yirmeyahu (ירמיהו, Jeremiah), or Yeshayahu (ישׁעיהו, Isaiah), where the divine element (יהו or יה) is combined with a verb or noun. Yeshua fits this pattern as a shortened form, but “Yahshua” deviates without precedent.
Culturally, the popularity of Yeshua in the Second Temple period is well-documented. The Jewish historian Josephus mentions several individuals named Yeshua, and the name appears in ossuary inscriptions from the period. This prevalence indicates that Yeshua was a common name, akin to modern names like John or Mary. The choice of Yeshua for Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels, thus reflects a typical Jewish name imbued with theological significance through divine announcement (Matthew 1:21; Luke 1:31).
The speculative nature of “Yahshua” does not negate the possibility that Jesus’ name carries complex etymological roots. The interplay of “to be” (היה) and “to save” (ישע) in Yeshua or Yehoshua allows for rich theological reflection. However, without textual or epigraphic evidence, “Yahshua” remains hypothetical. Scholarly consensus, based on manuscript traditions, linguistic patterns, and historical context, supports Yeshua (or Yehoshua) as the authentic Hebrew name of Jesus.
In conclusion, the name Jesus, as Ἰησοῦς in Greek, derives from the Hebrew Yeshua (ישׁוּע) or Yehoshua (יהושׁוע), meaning “salvation” or “YHWH saves.” These forms are well-attested in biblical and extrabiblical sources, reflecting their widespread use in Jewish culture. The name’s theological import, as highlighted in Matthew 1:21, connects directly to its linguistic roots, affirming Jesus’ role as the savior. Conversely, “Yahshua” lacks historical grounding and appears to be a modern invention, unsupported by ancient evidence. As theologians and linguists, we must prioritize attested data over speculative reconstructions, affirming Yeshua as the name that bridges linguistic precision and theological truth.
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Thanks for the information and clarification about the names. What about Yahusha and Yahua as spelt out in Yah scriptures ?
The pronunciations “Yahua” and “Yahusha” are debated in the context of ancient Hebrew. “Yahua” is a modern attempt to vocalize the Tetragrammaton (YHWH), the sacred name of God. Ancient Hebrew lacked vowels, and the original pronunciation is uncertain, with Jews avoiding its use and substituting “Adonai.” Scholars favor “Yahweh” based on Greek transliterations and Semitic linguistics, making “Yahua” plausible but not definitive. Similarly, “Yahusha” is proposed as the Hebrew name of Jesus, linked to Yehoshua (יהושע, “YHWH is salvation”) or Yeshua (ישוע). Ancient texts, like the Masoretic Text and Dead Sea Scrolls, support “Yehoshua” or “Yeshua,” not “Yahusha,” which is a modern reconstruction popular in Hebrew Roots movements. While both names reflect theophoric elements, they lack direct ancient evidence. Scholarly consensus leans toward “Yahweh” and “Yeshua/Yehoshua” as more historically grounded pronunciations.
Week, I am very glad to read that the traditional Yeshua / Jesus is the one that rocks all the boxes!
I must admit that I have never encountered the Joshua version and it makes me corpus as to where it could have originated.
Thinking of which, I do know that some of my compatriots when taking the holy name in vain , pronounce the first syllable ‘jay’. Could it have been some ignorant Irishman who set that particular hate running?
I don’t know about Irishmen :-). I still remember a new york times bestseller called: How Irish saved western civilizaiton. 🙂
Ok, but it confounds all reasoning that Joshua is derived from… Yod Hey Vav Shin Ayin(YHWSHA). Yahusha “Yah is salvation” He came in his father’s name.
Thank you for your comment.
I’m not Jewish but I believe a pesons, name should not be changed into another language. He will always be Yeshua.
Susan/Susanah (yours own name) is a name derived from Hebrew :-). Shoshana is a Hebrew name meaning “lily” or “rose,” derived from the Hebrew word “shoshan” (שׁוֹשַׁן). It is commonly used in Jewish culture and appears in the Hebrew Bible, notably in the Song of Songs (2:2), where it symbolizes beauty and purity. Shoshana is a popular name in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide. Jerusalem (yerushalaim), Solomon (Shlomo), Moses (Moshe), etc, etc, etc.
I am a Jew, born in Tunisia. There, the first name was very often derived from ancient tradition (particularly in the Jerba island, a Community dating back to the destruction of the first Temple).
And ישועה was very common in the Tunisian -and probably Lybian- Communities. As you explained it, this name means « salvation », others are ציון or מערבי, referring to Jerusalem and the כותל.
Leon, thank you so much. This is very helpful!
I’m so honoured to have Jewish name. I was named after my grandma who was called Lilly. God has a,since of humour. He gave me a love for the Jewish people . There are special to Him and also to.me. One day I hope to walk where my Yeshua walked..Adonia bless you
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Since Jesus is a transliteration of the true name of the Savior, (Yeshua), the name Jesus is not his real name, but a phonetic interpretation of the Hebrew, (Yeshua) derived from the Judeo-Greek and not the Koine-Greek, and refers to the Hebrew person of the Christ, would this be a correct statement? I hope this makes sense. ~ Joe
Well… I disagree :-). My name in Hebrew is Eliyahu, in Russian is Ilya, in Arabiac (I think) is Elias, in English Elijah. I of course agree is that original is Hebrew, but it doesn’t not mean Elijah is not a real name. 🙂
I will many blessings,to you
Amen!
Once introduced to someone it is at least polite, and reverenial to get a name correct! Jeshua is my Lord & Saviors name. Thank you for this lesson. (This confirms all the more my need to learn Hebrew)
Yes. Names are important.
Jesus referred to himself most often as the Son of Man which we are. It’s by the Grace of God, with Faith in Christ Jesus, he gives us power to become Sons of God.
Then we walk this earth even before we give up the ghost, in the place of Christ’s promise, And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also. The Christian Faith is to become ONE with I AM.
Thank you, Ray.
Deeply beautiful. Thank you for sharing! ❤️✝️🙌
Blessings!
“The interplay of “to be” (היה) and “to save” (ישע) in Yeshua or Yehoshua allows for rich theological reflection.” I live this because it has a personal connection for my spiritual growth. I was always doing and felt God teaching me to just be. So much so that I started a Just “BEE” Tea (Bee being the theme) at our college a few years back and am hoping to start one for women.
I would love to know more about the “to be” you refer to in your blog.
Carol, thank your comments and for everything that you and Robert do to encourage and enable our ministry!
Isaiah 53:9-10 has a code imbedded which says Yeshua is my name – Yeshua Shmi.
Proverbs 30:4 has Yeshua the Gift – Yeshua Shai.
Leviticus 21:10 has Behold the Blood of Yeshua
and many more
Per Yakov Rambsel watch YouTube “Hidden Bible codes revealed.”
Thanks.
Amen!
Amen to this article! Thank you for writing it! It was what I was thinking. Thank you so much for confirming!
Great minds thinkg alike.
Wow, to G-d be the glory!
In India in the local language, the Holy name of Jesus is Yesu/Yeshu Masiha( Jesus the Messiah).
There are all kinds of localisations. While it is better to keep to the original and it does not need to be the point of contention.
Hello there, I have been walking the ancient path for around 6 years now. Givin it my absolute 💯 best to keep YHWH’s commands through Yahshua ‘s name with all my heart and soul, and I shall say that I haven’t felt alone or misguided at all. I asked in prayers for years to know what was really hidden, and those two names were revealed to me. How? Or why? I don’t know. But I been there ever since. The Holy Creator has been good to me, I know it for sure. I am the only person from both sides of my family including my husband’s family to walk in this belief. But thank you for taking your precious time to look into this matter.
Sahira, thank you for your writing and sharing.
You are still trying to hide the original pronunciation of the sacred name, just as the rabbis of the first century and earlier did. Elohim wants His personal name to be pronounced. Its original pronunciation has never been lost. In fact, the word AleluYah contains His abbreviated name. All over the world, it is pronounced AleluYah and not Aleluyeh.
It is nice as a Jew to hear that I hide something from gentiles :-). Nothing new; in fact, I am reading the Quran now, and there, Muhamed is also accusing the Jews of hiding things from others :-).
Excellent summary thankyou
Thank you, Dale!
Now you should tackle the yah way, Yehovah, Yahoveh linguistics for us… plz!
Do you mean what YHVH means?
No- I mean is it Yehovah, Yahoveh or Yahuah. Or the common modern Christian yah way or yehweh or yahweh
Oh I see. Please, read the comments it does come up theere and I respond to it once or twice.
MY question is how did Yahushua or any of its other variations become Jesus, the name most Christians use today?
The name Yeshua, derived from Hebrew Yehoshua, meaning “Yahweh is salvation,” appears in the Old Testament, notably for Joshua, Moses’ successor. Yehoshua combines “Yahweh” (God’s name) and “yasha” (to save). In post-exilic Hebrew, the shorter Yeshua became common, used for figures like Jeshua in Ezra and Nehemiah. In the New Testament, written in Greek, Yeshua was transliterated as Iēsous, adapting Hebrew to Greek phonetics, as Greek lacked certain Hebrew sounds (e.g., “sh”). The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, also used Iēsous for Joshua. As Christianity spread, Iēsous entered Latin as Iesus, retaining Greek pronunciation. By the Middle Ages, English adopted Iesus from Latin texts. The letter “J,” emerging in late medieval Europe, replaced “I,” yielding Jesus by the 17th century. Pronunciation shifted from “Yay-soos” to “Jee-zus” in English, reflecting linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation.