Barnabas: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are celebrations of a saint or religious figure associated with a particular name, often observed with festivities and traditions. They are particularly prevalent in many European and Orthodox Christian cultures. Barnabas, derived from Aramaic, carries a historical weight tied to the early Church and the apostle known for his encouragement. The name’s mood is one of quiet strength and reliability, and it is traditionally a masculine identifier. Barnabas is celebrated on June 11th in several countries, including Austria, Denmark, Hungary, and the USA.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Barnabas's name day is celebrated
on June 11 in Austria, Denmark, Hungary (
Barnabás) and the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
Barnabas is a relatively uncommon name in the United States, experiencing periods of very low usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, though it has seen slight increases in recent years. Globally, the name enjoys more consistent popularity in Eastern European countries, particularly in Hungary and Romania, and within various Christian communities. Historically, its use was tied to the early Church and spread through missionary work. While not a mainstream choice, Barnabas carries a sense of classic, understated dignity. It’s a name that feels both familiar and distinct, often evoking a sense of quiet strength. Its rarity in many regions makes it a memorable and unique option for parents.
Name origin and meaning
The name Barnabas stems from Aramaic roots, representing a designation rather than a given name initially. It translates to 'son of encouragement' or 'son of prophecy', and was originally an epithet given to the Apostle Barnabas by the early Christian community. This apostle, originally named Joseph, was highly regarded for his supportive and encouraging nature. Over time, this descriptive title evolved into a formal given name, adopted by Christians seeking to honor the apostle’s qualities. Its spread was largely facilitated by the influence of the early Church and its missionary activities.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Barnabas is overwhelmingly a masculine name across the world. While theoretically usable as a unisex name, it is almost exclusively given to boys and men. In English-speaking countries, it’s rarely, if ever, considered for girls. This strong association with masculinity is deeply rooted in its biblical origins and historical usage. In regions like Hungary and Romania, where the name is more common, it remains firmly a male identifier. There are no significant cultural trends suggesting a shift towards unisex usage.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
Barnabas evokes a mood of quiet strength, reliability, and gentle wisdom. It feels grounded and substantial, yet not overly imposing. The name carries a subtle air of sophistication and intellectual curiosity. There’s a sense of warmth and approachability, stemming from its association with encouragement and support. It’s a name that suggests a thoughtful, compassionate, and dependable character.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Barnabas
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 22 – The Master Builder.
Keywords: Manifestation, practical genius, legacy, discipline.
Positive Traits: Highly skilled, powerful leader, visionary, master of big projects.
Challenges: High expectations, stress, self-doubt, pressure to succeed.
Life Path Meaning: A mission to turn dreams into reality and create something lasting for humanity.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Uranus - Innovation, Rebellion, Originality.
Uranus governs innovation, change, and forward-thinking. Names under Uranus’ influence often belong to individuals who are unconventional, independent, and visionary. These names resonate with those who challenge norms, embrace individuality, and thrive in creative or technological fields. Uranus-ruled names often suggest uniqueness and originality.
Name days: Name Barnabas
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
Barnabas: A name of quiet dignity
Barnabas is a name steeped in history and religious significance, yet remains relatively uncommon in many parts of the world. Its consistent masculine identity and association with encouragement contribute to its unique character. The name’s mood evokes a sense of quiet strength and gentle wisdom, making it a distinctive choice. The observance of its name day on June 11th adds another layer of cultural and religious depth. Ultimately, Barnabas is a name that offers a blend of tradition, strength, and understated elegance.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
Austria 
Denmark 
Hungary 
USA