Lazarus

#1307 US Recent (Boy Names) #2109 US All-Time

Meaning & Etymology

The name Lazarus derives from the Hebrew name Eleazar, composed of the elements 'el' meaning 'God' and 'azar' meaning 'help' or 'aid,' thus signifying 'God has helped' or 'God is my help.' This interpretation reflects a theophoric structure common in ancient Semitic names, where divine assistance is invoked. In the Hellenistic period, the Hebrew form was Hellenized to Lazaros, which entered Greek texts via the Septuagint translation of the Bible. The name's semantic core emphasizes divine intervention and deliverance, themes resonant in biblical narratives of resurrection and restoration. Over time, its usage preserved this connotation of miraculous aid, influencing Christian naming traditions across linguistic boundaries.

Linguistic Origin

Lazarus originates from Biblical Hebrew as a variant of Eleazar (אֶלְעָזָר), transmitted through the Greek Septuagint as Λάζαρος (Lázaros), where it appears in the New Testament. This Greek form spread via early Christian texts into Latin as Lazarus, entering Western European languages during the Roman Empire and medieval Christianity. In Eastern Orthodox traditions, it retained closer ties to the Greek pronunciation, while Romance languages adapted it phonetically, such as French Lazare. Slavic languages adopted forms like Lazar through Byzantine influence, reflecting Orthodox liturgical use. The name's linguistic pathway traces from Semitic roots through Koine Greek to Indo-European languages, primarily via religious texts rather than secular borrowing.

Cultural Background

Lazarus carries profound significance in Christianity, particularly through Lazarus of Bethany, whose resurrection miracle in John 11 affirms Jesus' divinity and themes of eternal life. Eastern Orthodox liturgy elevates Lazarus with a dedicated feast day, symbolizing hope amid Lent. In Western Catholicism, he represents charity and judgment via the Lukan parable. Culturally, the name evokes motifs of rebirth in folklore and art, such as medieval legends of Lazarus as a beggar-priest in Provence, where he is venerated as the region's first bishop. This layered religious heritage sustains its use in devotional naming practices worldwide.

Pronunciation

Commonly pronounced LAZ-uh-ruhs in English, with stress on the first syllable. Variants include LAH-zah-roos in Greek-influenced contexts and LAH-zahr in some Eastern European usages.

Gender Usage

Predominantly masculine historically and in contemporary usage, rooted in biblical male figures.

Nicknames & Variants

Nicknames

Lazar
Zary
Laz
Lazzie

Variants

Lazar
Lazare
Lázaro
Eleazar
Lazăr
Lazarević

Origins & History

Historical Namesakes

Lazarus of Bethany - biblical figure - raised from the dead by Jesus in the Gospel of John
Lazarus AAC - musician - avant-garde composer known for experimental electronic works

Mythology & Literature

In Christian scripture, Lazarus of Bethany symbolizes resurrection and faith, central to the Gospel of John's account of Jesus' miracle, which foreshadows the resurrection of Christ. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke illustrates themes of divine justice and the afterlife. Medieval literature and art frequently depicted Lazarus, influencing mystery plays and iconography across Europe. In Eastern Orthodox tradition, Lazarus Sunday precedes Palm Sunday, commemorating his raising. Modern literature occasionally references the name metaphorically for revival or near-death experiences.

Historical Significance

Lazarus of Bethany, the biblical figure resurrected by Jesus, holds foundational importance in Christian theology as evidence of divine power over death. Saint Lazarus of Constantinople, a 9th-century bishop, contributed to iconoclastic controversies. In Serbian history, Prince Lazar Hrebeljanović led resistance against the Ottomans at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, becoming a national martyr figure celebrated in epic poetry. These bearers underscore the name's association with leadership, piety, and sacrificial endurance across Byzantine and medieval Balkan contexts.

Additional Information

Popularity & Demographics

Lazarus remains a niche name in English-speaking regions, with enduring visibility in religious communities. It sees moderate use in Orthodox Christian populations and has gained subtle traction in modern naming trends favoring biblical names.

Trend Analysis

Stable niche appeal persists in faith-based communities, with mild resurgence tied to vintage biblical name revivals. Likely to maintain modest visibility without broad mainstream surges.

Geographical Distribution

Concentrated in Orthodox regions like Serbia, Greece, and Russia; present in Western Christian areas via biblical influence, with diaspora communities in the Americas.

Personality Traits

Often associated with resilience, faith, and a transformative spirit in naming perceptions, reflecting the biblical narrative of overcoming death.

Compatibility & Initials

Pairs well with initials like L.A. or Z.R., evoking strength in combinations such as Lazarus James or Lazarus Elias. Harmonizes with classic or scriptural middle names.

Sociolinguistic Usage

Predominantly formal and religious registers, with higher incidence among Orthodox Christians in Eastern Europe and the Levant; less common in secular or casual contexts.

Explore more from this origin in Hebrew origin names .