Chapter 11

The name Jesus is derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua meaning “Yahweh is Salvation” or “The Lord is Salvation.”

“But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”” Matthew 1:20-21.

The name “Christ” is derived from the Greek word “Christos”, and it means “Anointed One” or “Chosen One.” It corresponds to the Hebrew term “Messiah.”

Mary derives from the Hebrew name “Miryam.” In Aramaic which the Holy Family spoke, it is spelled “Maryam.” Angel Gabriel brought the good news to Mary that she will conceive through the Holy Spirit and bear a son, Jesus. She was also informed that her cousin Elizabeth was six months pregnant, so Mary went to visit her.

“And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Luke 1:41-42.

The name Joseph is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef meaning “God will add.” It associated with divine favor, increase in number, leadership, and strength.

“No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.” Genesis17:5.

The State of Grace is often used to refer to the Grace of God which means freedom from mortal sin by the unconditional love of God toward the unworthy.

Lydia is derived from the Greek word “ludia,” which means “beautiful one” or “noble one.” In the Bible, Lydia was the first recorded European convert to Christianity and was converted by the apostle Paul. She played a vital role in the spread of Christianity in Philippi where she lived. The name symbolizes strength, creativity, hospitality, and generosity.

“One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. ¹⁵ And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.” Acts 16:14-15.

God chose Abraham as the father of a multitude of nations, and the descendants of his grandson Jacob would form the twelve tribes of the nation of Israel. Jacob’s name was changed to Israel after he wrestled and struggled with God’s angel.

“When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, “Let me go, for the day has broken.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” And he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.”” Genesis 32:25-28.

The name Jerusalem is derived from two Hebrew words Jeru (or Yeru) which means “City” and Shalem (or Shalom) meaning “Peace.”

“And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”” Mark 14:33-36.

Esan is the ethnic language of the Esan people who live in Edo State in southern Nigeria. They emigrated from the Bini (Benin) Kingdom in Nigeria in the middle of the 15^th century. They are predominantly Christian.