The rise of this masculine first name is exponential in France

Today, names from the Old Testament are in the spotlight. This trend, which came from the United States, launched the careers of Aaron and Adam. And now, Isaac seems to want to claim his share of notoriety. Doctissimo sheds light on the origins of this name full of history.

The origin of an inspiring first name

In the Old Testament, Isaac is the son of Sarah and Abraham, the first patriarch of the Jewish people. When Sarah learns at the age of 90 that she is expecting her first child, she cannot hold back a laugh of disbelief, hence the origin of the name Isaac (“laughter” in Hebrew). However, his destiny was not always marked by good humor. Indeed, the Book of Genesis tells that God, wanting to put Abraham’s faith to the test, asked him to sacrifice his son. Isaac was spared. in extremis by the Angel who offered a ram in his place. The sacrifice of this miraculous and miraculous son inspired the greatest artists such as Rembrandt, Caravaggio or Chagall.

Considered the second patriarch of the Jewish people, Isaac was widely attributed in Hebrew communities around the world, but he was also widely chosen in Protestant families in France, England and the United States in the 16th and 17th centuries. Indeed, the choice of this first name, rarely given by Catholic parents, allowed them to distinguish themselves and affirm their Protestant faith.

The craze for biblical names

The current craze for Isaac goes far beyond community choices. Indeed, today, names from the Old Testament are very popular. This fashion, which came from the United States, launched the careers of Aaron and Adam. These biblical names combine all the criteria for success. They are short and appear to parents, believers or not, as unusual as they are timeless.

In France, the rise of this first name is exponential. So much so that Isaac is now propelled into the French top 20 and the first 10 Parisian ranks. This wave is felt in French-speaking Switzerland (top 20) and Quebec (top 50), and to a lesser extent in French-speaking Belgium (top 60).

A first name borne by historical figures

Several personalities with the name Isaac have made history in various fields. Among them is Isaac Newton, the famous English physicist and mathematician, whose contributions to science are immeasurable. Isaac Asimov, a Russian-American writer and biochemist, is another renowned Isaac, known for his science fiction and popular science books.

The name Isaac has also found its way into popular culture, appearing in various novels, films and television series. For example, Isaac Clarke is the protagonist of the video game series “Dead Space”, while Isaac Mendez is a character in the television series “Heroes”.

Why choose the name Isaac for your baby?

Isaac is a name rich in meaning and history, spanning centuries and cultures with remarkable consistency. Its current popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, combining a deep spiritual dimension with a modernity that makes it accessible and appreciated throughout the world. Choosing Isaac for your child means choosing a name that brings joy, wisdom and a great historical tradition.

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