Hadassah
/hə.ˈdæs.ə/
Hadassah is the Hebrew name of the biblical Queen Esther, derived from hadas (הֲדַס), meaning “myrtle tree.” In the Book of Esther, Hadassah is her birth name before she receives the Persian name Esther.
The myrtle tree symbolizes love, peace, and righteousness in Jewish tradition. Hadassah carries these associations along with the story of a courageous queen who saved her people from destruction.
Hadassah ranks No. 532 in 2024 with 572 births, its highest recorded position. The name has gained ground as parents seek distinctive biblical names beyond the most common choices.
What the name Hadassah means
The Hadassah Women’s Organization, founded in 1912, is the largest Jewish women’s organization in the United States. It has kept the name visible within American Jewish communities for over a century.
Three syllables—hah-DASS-uh—have a strong, rhythmic quality with a sharp central stress. The name sounds ancient and dignified, with a weight that distinguishes it from lighter modern choices.
Parents drawn to Hadassah value its deep scriptural roots and the empowering story of Queen Esther. It offers a less common alternative to Esther while sharing the same heroine.
The name has no common variants in English. In Hebrew, the shortened Dassah or Dassi serves as a familiar form. The connection to Esther links it to the Persian star meaning.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Hadassah - similar names
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