Naphtali

Meaning & origin

Naphtali is a rare biblical name with deep roots in Hebrew tradition. As of 2025, it ranks 10,695th in U.S. popularity, given to roughly 1 in every 284,679 newborns. Its popularity peaked relatively recently in 2023, suggesting a modest uptick in interest. The name has remained stable in usage over the decades, with a trajectory that shows no dramatic swings. First recorded in the U.S. in 1975, Naphtali has never been widely adopted, but its Old Testament heritage and the distinctive meaning 'my wrestling' give it a strong, resonant quality. It has yet to become prevalent in any particular state, reflecting its niche appeal. For parents drawn to uncommon biblical names, Naphtali offers a unique alternative to more familiar choices like Levi or Judah.

Naphtali is a biblical name from the Old Testament, one of the twelve sons of Jacob and the founder of the Tribe of Naphtali. The name is traditionally explained as meaning 'my wrestling' in Hebrew, derived from the verb 'naftal' (to wrestle), based on Rachel's exclamation at his birth: 'With mighty wrestlings I have wrestled with my sister and have prevailed' (Genesis 30:8). Long favored among Jewish families, it has seen sporadic use in English-speaking countries since the Protestant Reformation.