Ehud
EH-HOOD
From the Hebrew root meaning joined together or united. The name carries a sense of togetherness and solidarity. In the Hebrew Bible, Ehud was a left-handed judge of Israel from the tribe of Benjamin who used his cleverness and courage to liberate his people from Moabite oppression, making him a figure of resourceful heroism.
At a glance
A bold biblical Hebrew name meaning united, carried by a fearless judge in the Book of Judges and by prominent modern Israeli leaders.
Etymology & History
Ehud derives from the Hebrew root aleph-heh-dalet, related to the concept of being one or united. Some scholars connect it to the root meaning praised or celebrated. The name appears in ancient Semitic naming traditions and was in use among the Israelite tribes at least as far back as the period of the Judges, likely around the twelfth to eleventh centuries BCE. The name has remained in continuous use within Jewish communities and has experienced broader visibility through notable Israeli public figures in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.
Cultural Significance
In the Book of Judges, Ehud ben Gera is a celebrated deliverer of Israel. The text specifically notes he was left-handed, which in the ancient world was considered unusual and was even exploited in his plan against the Moabite king Eglon. He fashioned a double-edged sword and concealed it on his right thigh, passing through security checks that would have searched the left side. His story is one of intelligence triumphing over brute power. In modern Israel the name gained considerable prominence through two Prime Ministers, Ehud Barak and Ehud Olmert, bringing the ancient name into global political consciousness.
Famous people named Ehud
Ehud (Book of Judges)
A judge of ancient Israel from the tribe of Benjamin, celebrated in the Book of Judges for delivering Israel from the Moabite king Eglon through an act of cunning bravery.
Ehud Barak
Israeli politician and former Prime Minister of Israel, as well as a decorated military commander who served as Chief of Staff of the Israel Defence Forces.
Ehud Olmert
Israeli politician who served as Prime Minister of Israel from 2006 to 2009 and as Mayor of Jerusalem from 1993 to 2003.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Ehud
Amos
“Carried by God, burden bearer”
Amos is a resonant Hebrew name meaning 'carried by God' or 'burden bearer,' derived from the root amas, meaning 'to carry' or 'to bear a load.' It belongs to one of the great prophetic voices of the Hebrew Bible, a shepherd from Tekoa who spoke fearlessly against injustice and corruption in ancient Israel.
Asher
“Happy, blessed”
From the Hebrew asher, meaning 'happy' or 'blessed'. In the Book of Genesis, Asher was the eighth son of Jacob, and his mother Zilpah declared 'Happy am I!' at his birth, giving the name its joyful association.
Boaz
“Swiftness, strength”
Boaz is a Hebrew name traditionally interpreted as meaning 'swiftness' or 'strength'. Some scholars connect it to the Hebrew roots 'bo' (in him) and 'az' (strength), suggesting 'in him is strength'.
Ethan
“Strong, firm, enduring”
Ethan derives from the Hebrew 'Eitan,' meaning 'strong,' 'firm,' or 'enduring.' Adopted widely into English usage, the name conveys resilience and steadfastness, qualities that have helped it maintain enduring appeal across generations.
Gideon
“Mighty warrior, feller of trees”
Gideon derives from the Hebrew root meaning 'to hew' or 'to cut down,' giving it the powerful dual sense of a mighty warrior and one who fells trees. It carries connotations of decisive strength and purposeful action.
Oren
“Pine tree, ash tree”
Oren is a nature-inspired Hebrew name meaning "pine tree" or "ash tree," evoking strength, resilience, and evergreen vitality. The name connects a child to the natural world through the image of a tall, enduring tree, making it a grounded and meaningful choice with a clean, modern sound.
Where you'll find Ehud
Ehud shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.