MEANING OF JAMES NAME

The name James has a fascinating history and carries deep significance

Origin and Meaning of James

James is an English form of the Biblical name Jacob, which means “supplanter” or “heel-grabber”.

In Hebrew tradition, the name James signifies a person in control of their actions and will.

The Greek roots of the name roughly translate to "grabs the heel"

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Biblical and Historical Significance of James

- James was the son of Zebedee in the New Testament, and his name meant “gift from God”.

- The name has been borne by two apostles in the Bible: Saint James the Greater (brother of the apostle John) and James the Lesser (son of Alphaeus).

- Another James, known as James the Just, is mentioned as the brother of Jesus.

- The name has been used in England since the 13th century and became even more common in Scotland, where it was borne by several kings.

- In the 17th century, the Scottish king James VI inherited the English throne, becoming the first ruler of all Britain, which further popularized the name.

- In American name statistics, James has consistently been among the top 20 names since 1880, making it one of the most enduringly popular names of its era.

- It held the top rank for boys in the United States from 1940 to 1952.

- Famous bearers include the English explorer James Cook, the Scottish inventor James Watt, and the Irish novelist and poet James Joyce.

- Six American presidents have also borne this name.

- A notable fictional bearer is the British spy James Bond, created by author Ian Fleming in 19531.

James is a classic, mature, and strong name that has left an indelible mark throughout history.