Origin
Hebrew
Syllables
2
Zodiac
Capricorn
Trend
Declining
At a glance
Yaakov is a name often given to boys. Ranked #978 and is easing off the charts this year. It comes from a Hebrew origin and traditionally means "Supplanter or heel-grabber, from the biblical Jacob who held his brother's heel.". It has 2 syllables.
The Story of Yaakov
Yaakov is the Hebrew rendering of Jacob, rooted in the Torah where Jacob wrestles with an angel and becomes Israel, meaning 'he who struggles with God.' Etymologically from 'aqev' (heel), it evolved through biblical narratives and rabbinic literature, influencing Jewish naming from antiquity. In medieval times, it spread via diaspora, with forms like Jacques in French, adapting to local tongues while preserving core significance.
Culturally, Yaakov symbolizes transformation and covenant in Judaism, central to Passover and Hanukkah stories of the patriarchs. It is prevalent in Israel and Orthodox communities, evoking familial duty and spiritual depth. The name reinforces identity in rituals, from brit milah to bar mitzvahs, linking generations.
In media, Yaakov features in adaptations like 'The Prince of Egypt' as Jacob, and in series such as 'The Bible' miniseries. Literature, including Chaim Potok's novels, portrays Yaakov as introspective heroes facing moral dilemmas. These depictions highlight themes of faith and redemption, enriching the name's narrative legacy.
Personality traits for Yaakov include tenacity, insight, and loyalty, mirroring Jacob's journey from trickster to patriarch. Bearers often exhibit strategic thinking and empathy, thriving in roles demanding endurance. The name instills a sense of purpose, guiding through trials toward personal and communal growth.
Popularity
Currently ranked #978 on the Baby Billboard Charts. Peak rank: #978. Changed -16 positions from last year.
Numerology Profile
Life path 4 builds stability through hard work and organization, valuing structure and reliability. They achieve goals methodically but may resist change. This path rewards persistence with lasting security.
Soul urge 8 seeks power, success, and material mastery, driving ambitious pursuits. These individuals lead with authority, learning to balance ambition with integrity. It propels a legacy of influence and achievement.
Personality 2 radiates cooperation, sensitivity, and peacemaking, excelling in partnerships. They are intuitive diplomats but prone to indecisiveness. This number enhances relational harmony and support.
Expression 5 emphasizes versatility, freedom, and adventure, adapting to life's changes dynamically. Bearers communicate excitement, thriving in variety, yet need discipline. It fosters a spirited, exploratory destiny.
Zodiac & Astrology
Capricorn
Capricorn's disciplined ambition aligns with Yaakov's supplanter perseverance, building legacies. The name's depth matches the sign's strategic climb. It bolsters Capricorn's resilience in achieving goals.
Strengths
Compatible Signs
Lucky Numbers
Lucky Colors
Best Career Paths
Name Energy & Vibe
Yaakov grounds with steadfast, transformative energy that supports growth through struggle. It resonates with inner strength and familial roots, guiding steady progress. This aura fosters determination and profound connections.
Color Aura
Deep Earth Brown
Element
Earth
Season
Winter
Gemstone
Onyx
Spirit Animal
Ram
Power Word
Endurance
Energy Type
Earth × Winter
Personality & Traits
Tenacious
Yaakovs hold firm in pursuits, overcoming obstacles with unyielding determination. Their tenacity builds success in long-term goals. It reflects biblical resilience.
Insightful
Deep thinkers, Yaakovs perceive truths others miss, guiding wise choices. Their insight aids in counseling and strategy. It stems from reflective nature.
Loyal
Committed to loved ones, Yaakovs provide steadfast support through trials. Their loyalty forges unbreakable bonds. It anchors their relationships.
Strategic
Planning ahead, Yaakovs navigate complexities with clever tactics. Their strategy excels in business and life decisions. It ensures effective outcomes.
Empathetic
Sensing emotions, Yaakovs offer compassionate understanding and aid. Their empathy strengthens connections. It softens their determined side.
Resourceful
Finding solutions in scarcity, Yaakovs innovate under pressure. Their resourcefulness turns challenges into opportunities. It drives adaptability.
Humble
Grounded despite achievements, Yaakovs value modesty and learning. Their humility earns respect. It balances ambition.
Inspirational
Motivating others, Yaakovs lead by example in perseverance. Their inspiration uplifts communities. It embodies transformative spirit.
Famous People Named Yaakov
Yaakov Needleman
Philosopher and author on comparative religion.
Yaakov Bekenstein
Israeli physicist known for black hole entropy.
Yaakov Ziv
Co-inventor of the LZ77 compression algorithm.
Yaakov Katz
Israeli journalist and politician.
Yaakov Shabtai
Israeli writer of modernist novels.
Yaakov Ahimeir
Israeli broadcaster and political commentator.
Yaakov Rotblat
Polish physicist and Nobel Peace Prize winner for anti-nuclear efforts.
Yaakov Ariel
Professor of religious studies at University of North Carolina.
Yaakov in Pop Culture
Yaakov
The Chosen (TV series) - Biblical Jacob portrayal.
Yaakov
Bibleman (Animated series) - Faith-based character.
Yaakov
Tales of the Ageless (Book) - Patriarch figure.
Yaakov
The Red Tent (TV miniseries) - Ancestral role.
Yaakov
Shtisel (TV) - Family elder.
Yaakov
Unorthodox (TV) - Community member.
Historical Events
1800 BCE
Biblical Yaakov's story foundational to Jewish history and exodus.
70 CE
Destruction of Temple influences preservation of names like Yaakov.
1948
Israel's founding revives biblical names including Yaakov.
1967
Six-Day War highlights Israeli Yaakovs in military roles.
International Variations
Yaakov in Different Scripts
يعقوب
Arabic
雅各
Chinese (Mandarin)
ヤコブ
Japanese (Katakana)
야곱
Korean
יעקב
Hebrew
Ιακώβ
Greek
Яков
Cyrillic
याकूब
Hindi (Devanagari)
Nicknames & Short Forms
Middle Name Suggestions
Beautiful middle name pairings with Yaakov:
Yaakov Ben
Yaakov Eli
Yaakov Yosef
Yaakov David
Yaakov Isaac
Yaakov Samuel
Yaakov Aaron
Yaakov Nathan
Yaakov Gideon
Yaakov Reuben
Fun Facts & Trivia
Yaakov is the original Hebrew for Jacob, father of the 12 tribes of Israel.
It means 'heel' from the biblical birth story with Esau.
Common in Israel, ranking high in Jewish naming traditions.
The name changed to Israel after wrestling with an angel.
Yaakov appears in over 15 languages with variants.
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boyJames
Supplanter or one who follows, derived from the biblical Jacob.
boyElijah
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boyBenjamin
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boyPronunciation
YAA-kov
Quick Facts
This page is reviewed by the Baby Billboard Charts editorial team. Rankings come from official U.S. Social Security Administration birth records, with descriptions checked for clarity and usefulness. See our Editorial Policy for our methodology and correction process.