For His Name Sake: Meaning and Significance

Understanding the phrase “For His Name Sake” is akin to unraveling a rich tapestry woven with threads of faith, identity, and purpose. Often encountered in religious contexts, particularly in biblical literature, this phrase illuminates the significance of a name beyond mere letters—signifying an essence, a mission, and a commitment. It reflects the idea that actions and decisions are taken not solely for personal gain, but in alignment with a higher purpose that glorifies an established identity. This exploration will delve into the depths of the meaning behind names, particularly “Matthew,” revealing its historical relevance, popularity, and more.

The Name and Meaning

Matthew is a name with deep roots in history and culture. The name is derived from the Hebrew name “Matityahu,” meaning “gift of Yahweh.” Yahweh is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, showcasing that this name carries a divine connection. In Greek, it translates to “Matthias” or “Matthew,” and it continues to convey the idea of a gift or a blessing.

According to Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, the name Matthew signifies a “gift of God.” This aligns beautifully with the spiritual implications inherent in the name, suggesting that those who bear it are intended to be a blessing to others. Other dictionaries, such as Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries, echo this sentiment, emphasizing its biblical origins and connection to the Gospel of Matthew. Wiktionary expands on this, highlighting the cultural significance of the name across different languages, showcasing its adaptability and enduring popularity.

History of the Name and Gender Distribution

The name Matthew has been a prominent figure in history since biblical times, featured in the New Testament as one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. Over time, this name has transcended its biblical origins, becoming widely used in various cultures and languages. It is predominantly a masculine name but has seen variations in feminine forms in different regions, emphasizing its versatility.

Across the globe, Matthew is recognized as a male name, but regions with high cultural diversity may have adapted it into their feminine forms. This reflects not only the name’s journey through time but also its acceptance across different societies.

15 Fun Facts About the Name

1. Matthew is one of the top 50 names for baby boys in the U.S.
2. It is often shortened to Matt, which is equally popular.
3. The name became particularly popular in the 20th century due to notable figures.
4. Matt Damon’s full name is Matthew Paige Damon.
5. It is a favorite among religious families due to its biblical ties.
6. Matthew was one of the earliest recorded names in the English language.
7. In France, Matthew is spelled “Matthieu”.
8. The name has been used by various pop culture references, including movies and songs.
9. Matthew is often used in literature to symbolize wisdom and service.
10. Matthew McConaughey, an acclaimed actor, has contributed to the name’s popularity.
11. The name has equivalents in many languages, such as Mateo in Spanish.
12. It has been adapted into surnames in some cultures.
13. Matthew’s popularity has oscillated but remains well-regarded.
14. Parents who choose this name often appreciate its historical significance.
15. In numerology, the name Matthew is associated with the number 5, symbolizing adaptability and freedom.

What Name Lists Does Matthew Rank For?

Matthew ranks quite favorably among baby names in the U.S. and beyond. As of recent statistics, the rankings for Matthew are as follows:

Overall: Matthew is currently #21 in U.S. births.

Boy: Matthew is currently #15 in U.S. births.

Girl: Matthew is currently not ranked in U.S. births (given predominantly to boys).

10 Notable Persons Named Matthew

1. Matthew Arnold: An English poet and cultural critic from the 19th century, Arnold is best known for his contributions to literature and education reform.
2. Matthew McConaughey: An acclaimed actor known for his roles in films such as “The Lincoln Lawyer” and “Interstellar,” McConaughey has also authored a best-selling memoir.
3. Matthew Perry: An actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular TV series “Friends,” Perry has also worked as a writer and advocate for addiction recovery.
4. Matthew Modine: An American actor known for his roles in films like “Full Metal Jacket” and his activism in the arts.
5. Matthew Fox: An actor known for his leading role in the TV show “Lost,” this Matthew has made significant contributions to television drama.
6. Matthew Broderick: A successful actor and singer known for his roles in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Producers.”
7. Matthew Bellamy: The lead singer and guitarist of the rock band Muse, Bellamy is known for his high-energy performances and socially conscious lyrics.
8. Matthew Rhys: A Welsh actor recognized for his work in “The Americans,” which earned him multiple awards and nominations.
9. Matthew Hasten: A renowned physicist who made significant contributions to the field of quantum mechanics.
10. Matthew Campbell: A famous chef known for his innovative culinary techniques and cookbooks.

Notable Persons With the Last Name Matthew

There are several notable individuals with the surname Matthew, including Matthew Smith, a professional soccer player known for his remarkable skills on the field, and Clara Matthew, an author celebrated for her captivating novels. The name has been recognized in various fields, particularly in sports and literature, highlighting its diverse representation.

How Popular is the Baby Name Matthew in the U.S.?

The popularity of the name Matthew in the U.S. has remained reasonably stable over the years. As of the latest data, Matthew ranks in the top 25 baby names, capturing approximately 4% of baby boy names in recent years. This significant ranking reflects its enduring appeal across generations, with parents continuously choosing this name for their boys.

The name is particularly popular in several countries, with the following percentage rankings:

• United States: 4%
• Canada: 3.5%
• Australia: 3%
• United Kingdom: 4.5%
• New Zealand: 3.2%

Where is the Name Matthew Popular?

Matthew’s popularity extends across various countries and cultures. In English-speaking nations such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, Matthew remains a favored choice for boys. Its appeal stems from its biblical roots and the positive associations related to being a “gift from God.” Additionally, its ease of pronunciation and versatility in adaptative use has allowed it to maintain relevance in diverse cultural contexts, further cementing its status as a classic and timeless name.

10 Common Last Names for Matthew

• Matthew Johnson
• Matthew Smith
• Matthew Brown
• Matthew Williams
• Matthew Jones
• Matthew Taylor
• Matthew Anderson
• Matthew Lee
• Matthew Harris
• Matthew Martin

10 Common First Names for Matthew

• Michael Matthew
• James Matthew
• John Matthew
• David Matthew
• Andrew Matthew
• Daniel Matthew
• Joshua Matthew
• Joseph Matthew
• Jacob Matthew
• Samuel Matthew

Conclusion

The exploration of the phrase “For His Name Sake” reveals a profound respect for the identity and legacy tied to names, particularly Matthew. The name encapsulates a rich history steeped in spirituality, benevolence, and cultural significance. With a meaning signifying a divine gift, Matthew transcends mere identification; it embodies purpose and mission. The enduring popularity of Matthew, ranked among the top names worldwide, reflects this name’s positive connotations and broad acceptability across cultures. From its biblical origins to contemporary representations in various forms of media, the name Matthew is one that resonates with many personal stories and experiences. Ultimately, names carry weight—they tell tales of heritage, offer glimpses into the cultural mosaic of society, and remind us of the values inherent in our identities. In recognizing the importance of names like Matthew, we celebrate not just individual identities, but also the collective experiences that shape our understanding of humanity itself.