Jonathan (Hebrew: יְהוֹנָתָן/יוֹנָתָן‎, Standard: Yehōnatan / Yōnatan, Tiberian: Yŏhōnāṯān / Yōnāṯān[1]) is a common name given to males which means " YHWH has given" in Hebrew. [2][3] The earliest known use of the name was in the Bible; one Jonathan was the son of King Saul, a close friend of David. From the Hebrew name יְהוֹנָתָן (Yehonaṯan), contracted to יוֹנָתָן (Yonaṯan), meaning " Yahweh has given", derived from the roots יְהוֹ (yeho) referring to the Hebrew God and נָתַן (naṯan) meaning "to give".

Understanding the Context

According to the Old Testament, Jonathan was the eldest son of Saul. Jonathan is often used as a boy name. Learn more about the meaning, origin, and popularity of the name Jonathan. How Popular Is the Name Jonathan?

Key Insights

If you’re looking for a strong biblical... Jonathan, in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) books 1 and 2 Samuel, the eldest son of King Saul. Jonathan’s intrepidity and fidelity to his friend, the future king David, make him one of the most admired figures in the Bible. Jonathan is a boy's name of Hebrew origin meaning "gift of Jehovah". Jonathan is the 83 ranked male name by popularity.

Final Thoughts

A wave of online attention recently surrounded Jonathan, the worlds oldest known land animal, after a viral post triggered widespread discussion. The 194-year-old tortoise, who has lived through centuries of history, rapidly became a trending topic as people across the globe reacted emotionally to the circulating claims. The story spread rapidly across platforms, drawing responses from ... Jonathan -- the world's oldest land animal -- lives! NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Joe Hollins, veterinarian of 194-year-old tortoise, and Nigel Phillips, governor of St. Helena, about a crypto hoax.

World’s oldest known tortoise still very much alive despite rumor to the contrary 1 of 3 | Jonathan the tortoise, believed to be 193, is still kicking - albeit slowly - on the island of St. Helena despite rumors of his death.