Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Shiloh”

Origin and Historical Background

The name “Shiloh” has deep historical and cultural roots, stemming primarily from ancient Hebrew origins. It is derived from the Hebrew word שִׁילֹה (Shiló), appearing in the Old Testament of the Bible. Shiloh was an ancient city in Samaria, significant as a cultural and religious center for the Israelites before the first Temple’s construction in Jerusalem. Historically, Shiloh was said to be the location where the Ark of the Covenant was housed for centuries, symbolizing a place of peace and divinity. The name Shiloh itself conveys tranquility, rest, and a sense of sanctuary.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

The name Shiloh embodies the essence of peace and rest, making it particularly appealing to those who value serenity and harmony. In cultures that place importance on names carrying spiritual and emotional significance, Shiloh stands out for its peaceful connotations. In many ways, naming a child Shiloh could symbolize a wish for them to embody the calm and restful spirit the name represents.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Shiloh

1. Shiloh Fernandez (Contemporary Era)

• Historical Era: 21st Century
• Key Contributions: Shiloh Fernandez is an American actor notable for his roles in films such as “Evil Dead” and TV shows like “United States of Tara.”
• Cultural Impact: Fernandez’s rising career has helped bring the name Shiloh into the limelight, showcasing its modern appeal.

2. Shiloh Strong (Contemporary Era)

• Historical Era: Late 20th Century to Present
• Key Contributions: Shiloh Strong is an actor, screenwriter, and photographer, known for his work in films like “Buck” and TV series such as “Over There.”
• Cultural Impact: Shiloh Strong’s artistic contributions have added a creative and multifaceted dimension to the name.

Usage Over Time

The name Shiloh has seen varied levels of popularity over the decades. Its use as a girl’s name has particularly increased in recent years, thanks in part to its aura of timeless tranquility. While it may never have topped the charts in any decade according to the SSA, Shiloh consistently appears as a unique and cherished name choice for parents seeking a name with historical and peaceful significance.

Pronunciation Guide

Shiloh is pronounced \SHY-loh\. Phonetically, it breaks down to SHY (like the word ‘shy’) and loh (rhyming with ‘glow’ but with a softer, more open ‘o’). It’s essential to emphasize the initial “Sh-” sound, followed by a flowing -loh that glides smoothly on the tongue.

Biblical Context

In the Bible, Shiloh is mentioned in the Book of Genesis as a reference to a messianic prophecy. Genesis 49:10 refers to Shiloh as “he whose it is” or “he to whom it belongs,” interpreted by many as a title for the Messiah. Shiloh as a location in the Bible was instrumental, serving as the spiritual center of Israel before Jerusalem.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Shiloh corresponds to the number 1, signifying leadership and independence.

Variations and Cultural Variants

While primarily used in its original form, Shiloh can be varied slightly across languages and cultures. Spelling variations include Shilo and Shyloh.

Cultural Tidbits

Shiloh has been used as a name in modern literature and cinema, further embedding it in contemporary popular culture.

Summary of Popularity (SSA data)

Though Shiloh does not frequently rank among the top names in any given decade, it has seen a gradual yet significant increase in popularity in recent years, particularly since celebrities have chosen it for their children, thereby garnering media attention.

In conclusion, the name Shiloh merges deep historical roots with a modern appeal, symbolizing rest and peace. For parents seeking a name with both spiritual resonance and a contemporary feel, Shiloh stands as a heartfelt and serene choice.