How to pronounce the longest name in the Bible

The longest name in the Bible is Mahershalalhashbaz which is found in Isaiah 8:1 and 8:3. It belongs to the name of the child born of Isaiah and ‘the prophetess.’

“Moreover the Lord said to me, “Take a large scroll, and write on it with a man’s pen concerning Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz. And I will take for Myself faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah.” Then I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son. Then the Lord said to me, ‘Call his name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz; 4 for before the child shall have knowledge to cry ‘My father’ and ‘My mother,’ the riches of Damascus and the [c]spoil of Samaria will be taken away before the king of Assyria.'” (Isaiah 8:1-4).

Name Meaning

Maher-shalal-hash-baz was Isaiah’s second son and means “Speed the spoil, hasten the prey.” This name was meant to signify the imminence of the Assyrian invasion foretold in Isaiah 7:17–25. The longest name in the Bible was a warning that judgment was soon approaching. This judgement would fall on those who rejected God’s warnings. For nearly a year before Mahershalalhashbaz’s birth, the name bore its message to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. This was to give ample opportunity to ponder its importance and repent.

The name of Isaiah’s first son, Shear-jashub, means “[a] remnant [shall] return.” This child’s name signified to the people that they must return to God. It also signified that those who return would only be a few. This is similar to those who would choose the right path.”Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:14).

While most of God’s people had turned away, God’s still desired to save them. The name “Isaiah” means “Jehovah [will] save.” This message of salvation is in fact, the theme of the book of Isaiah. “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.” (Isaiah 12:2).

Purpose of Isaiah, Shearjashub and Mahershalalhashbaz

Isaiah and his sons were ordained of God to be living signs to the people of Judah (Isaiah 8:18). Through them God proclaimed a vital message to His people. Each name was a message from God in phases.  The first to remind them of God’s offer of salvation (Isaiah). The second that He would accept those who return (Shearjashub). Finally, a warning to them of coming destruction (Mahershalalhashbaz).

God would not make a full end of Judah at the time of Isaiah’s first son. This was because there were still some who were open to repentance. However, by the time Mahershalalhashbaz was born, time was almost out.

God used the names of Isaiah and his sons as a teaching tool to help His people understand the plan of salvation. It is always God’s plan to save. This is the meaning of the name of Jesus. “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21).

Message to God’s people today

We live in a time when many people who once knew God have turned away. This is a sign of the soon coming of Jesus (2 Thessalonians 2:3, 2 Timothy 3). Just as God’s people in the days of Isaiah, so today God’s people need this message. First, God’s people need to understand the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:9). Then, they need to repent of their sins, even if this is not popular (Acts 2:38-40). Finally, they must live ready to meet their Lord who is coming soon (1 Peter 4:7).

The fact that this is the longest name in the Bible gives it significance. It is a way to gaing attention as a warning. May we learn from the message of Isaiah and his sons. When we live this message in our lives, we can be confident in our salvation.

Are you looking for name ideas for your baby? There are several places where you can find inspiration. One such place is the Bible, which is full of characters from whom you can borrow your baby’s name. Unfortunately, biblical names are very popular, and you are sure to find several other people named Sara, Rachael, Michael, Joseph, and the likes. Therefore, if you are looking for a unique name, you have to be a little bit more creative. So, why not go for one of the longest names in the Bible?

Unbeknownst to many people, there are several weirdly unique names in the Bible. We have compiled a list of some of the longest names in the Bible. If you are naming your baby, you just need to be very sure about your decision when choosing one of these names, as they might even be challenging to pronounce.

1. Mahershalalhashbaz

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Mahershalalhashbaz is the longest name in the Bible. Found in Isaiah 8:1, 8:3, it is the name Isaiah was told by God to give to his son, who he bore with a woman only referred to in the Bible as “the Prophetess”. The name, which is symbolic in nature means “quick spoils, speedy plunder” and it is taken to have been a warning from God of what the Syrians would do the Israelites.

Naming a baby after a character who was used to foretell of doom might not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, if you don’t mind this bit, Mahershalalhashbaz is a unique name, and you can be sure your son is the only one who will go by that name in his class.

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2. Chushanrishathaim

Chushanrishathaim is the second-longest name in the Bible. Found in Judges 3: 8 – 10, it is the name of King of Aram Nahraim, who enslaved the Israelites for 8 years after they angered God. The king, however, would not have a happy ending, as God would later raise a hero to deliver Israelites – Othniel, a relative of Caleb.

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Chushanrishathaim is unique a name as they come in the Bible. However, naming your child after an oppressive ruler might not be a good idea. But then again, if you are raising them to conquer the world, why not? Just be sure to remember and consider how his story ends in the Bible before you name him.

3. Berodachbaladan

Berodachbaladan is the name of a King of Babylon, who you can find in Isaiah 39:1. Originally, he was named Berodach, but after the death of his father he took on his name, Baladan, as a way to honour him.

If you are looking for a unique kingly name for your son, Berodachbaladan is as good as any. The fact that he was respectful to his father, even in death, is a good sign for those who are superstitious. Also, he was known by another unique and long name -- Merodach-Baladan --, which means that you get a two-for-one in uniqueness with this choice.

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4. Zaphnathpaaneah

Zaphnathpaaneah is one of the long religious names you can find in the Bible. Found in Genesis 41:45, it is the name that was given to Joseph by Pharaoh, the same Joseph who was sold to Egypt by his brothers, but found prosperity there.

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If you are looking for a unique name for your child, Zaphnathpaaneah is a good choice. It is especially a perfect alternative for the name Joseph, which is widely overused all over the world. Plus, you get the added benefit of an exotic Egyptian name for your child.

5. Bashanhavothjair

Bashanhavothjair is another rare name in the Bible that you’ve probably never heard of, and which you will have a hard time pronouncing. Found in Deuteronomy 3:14 It was the name of Jair, son of Manasseh, and which would later use to name the country of Argob after he captured them.

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Despite the nearly impossible pronunciation, Bashanhavothjair is a cool name for a baby, especially if you are looking for name ideas based on heroes. He was also a successful warrior, who conquered several lands and named them after him, so that’s another plus.

6. Nebuchadnezzar

While rare, Nebuchadnezzar is a name that most people, especially those with even a little bit of Christian background, are familiar with. He is best known for being a powerful king, the greatest of all Babylonian kings.

He rebuilt the kingdom of Babylon and restored it to its former glory after it gained its independence from Assyria. In modern history, he is credited by historians for building the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World.

Another thing Nebuchadnezzar is known for in the Bible is his pride. In one instant, he angered God with his pride. As a result, he was cursed with madness that caused all of his kingdoms to be taken away, was driven from his lands, and forced to shelter in the jungle for seven years where he ate grass like cattle. It was not until he repented and humbled himself that the curse was lifted. His character is thus used as a moral lesson against being proud.

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7. Mephibosheth

Mephibosheth is another one of the top biblical names. It is the name of the son of Jonathan (King David’s friend) and the grandson of King Saul. The name is mentioned on a couple of occasions in the book of Samuel.

He was crippled at a young age, when his nurse dropped him when fleeing after the news about Jonathan and Saul’s death spread. However, in later years, David remembered his promise to Jonathan, and as a result, restored his son, Mephibosheth to a high place in the palace.

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8. Zerubbabel

If you are looking for another inspiring idea for unique biblical baby names, Zerubbabel is a good choice. He was a heroic figure in the history of Jews, as he helped to them into victory after they were captured and enslaved by the ancient kingdom of Babylon. He is also credited with building a temple after leading the Israelites to freedom.

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9. Tilgathpilneser

Another one of the top long Bible names, Tilgathpilneser is the name of an ancient King of Assyria. He is best known for his aggressive rule, where he expanded the Assyrian empire greatly during his reign.

If you are looking for some rare biblical names for your baby, the above are some of the longest names in the Bible. Their length alone makes them weirdly unique. However, you can also like the unique biographies of the Bible characters behind these names, from successful kings and rulers to people who overcame difficulties and prospered. However, before you choose one of these names, be sure that you know how to pronounce them; some of their pronunciation is anything but fun.

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Who is the king with the shortest name in the Bible?

"praiseworthy", also transliterated as Zambri due to a Greek corruption of Omri), was the fifth king of Israel. His reign lasted only seven days. William F. ... Zimri (king).

What are the 10 longest names?

Barnaby Marmaduke Aloysius Benjy Cobweb Dartagnan Egbert Felix Gaspar Humbert Ignatius Jayden Kasper Leroy Maximilian Neddy Obiajulu Pepin Quilliam Rosencrantz Sexton Teddy Upwood Vivatma Wayland Xylon Yardley Zachary Usansky.