Jonah

[cowbiscuits]

What does anyone think of this name?

I don't seem to see it suggested very often on here, is that because it is not "mumsnet approved" (I hope that would not influence my decision)? Or is there something awful about it that I'm not seeing?

I think I like it, but something is holding me back and I'm not sure what. I like Joel too. Do these names sound too American? I usually dislike very American sounding names (no offence meant to anyone).

Isn't Jonah the bringer of bad luck? That meaning would put me off, I think.

As long as he doesn't join the navy or become a fisherman it should be fine.

I read that it meant Dove but understand due to the biblical tale that sailors use it to symbolise someone who brings bad luck- thankfully no sailors in the family!

It's a Hebrew name, often translated to comforter or rest. OT Noah was not Jewish himself but it's a name often used by Jewish people...

Sorry below message was reply to shakemysilliesout about the name Noah... Not Jonah!

I love the name but I wouldn't use it.

Sailors traditionally used the name Jonah to personify someone who brings bad luck. From time to time you do hear people refer to someone as a "Jonah".

"Cassandra" is another mocking term people use to describe someone who nobody believes their prophecies.

Love the name but it was ruined for me by the TV series Veep. Do NOT watch Veep if you want to use the name... :D

I'd forgotten about the sailors bad luck thing! I'm not superticious but that puts me off a bit.

Not that I'd have really used it because realised it's much to similar to DS1s name.

I still think it's gorgeous though.

I like it and I love Joel.

Love it! I know an incredibly cool six year old Jonah and also a baby (both in North London).

Jonah is ok, but have you considered Josiah?

Reminds me of singing at school '.....WHEEEEN Jonah sank into the sea he closed his eyes and prayed, oh lord I'm very sorry that your word I've disobeyed if you will only come and save me I will do as you command, instead of treading water let me tread upon the land'

How the hell did I just remember all that?

I love it but what puts me off slightly us that it would be shortened to Joe, which would be such a shame!

I love the name Jonah. All my children have Old Testament names and never once have we been quizzed about being Jewish. The only person who has ever said anything was my Dad when my daughter was born and he said, why do they ask have Jewish names?! No one else has ever said anything about it!

Jonah is a brilliant name. I'd consider it if we ever had any more babies as we are committed to the bible theme now!!