Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Mahalia

      Origin 
      Hebrew

      Meaning 
      Tenderness

      Variations 
      Mahalah, Makalia, Mahala

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Mahalia has its origins in Hebrew, deriving from the word mahal which means tenderness. This meaningful name has deep historical roots and has been used throughout time, representing an enduring symbol of affection and gentleness.

      In history, the name Mahalia can be traced back to biblical times. It is associated with the story of Mahalath, who was one of the four wives of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob. Although the name itself is not explicitly mentioned in this context, it is believed to have evolved from the Hebrew word mahal, which refers to compassion and tenderness. This biblical association lends a timeless quality to the name Mahalia, connecting it to an ancient lineage and spiritual significance.

      In modern-day usage, Mahalia continues to thrive as a name with deep meaning and cherished connotations. The name is often given to girls as a way to symbolize their inherent tenderness and kindness. Mahalia is chosen by parents around the world, reflecting a desire to imbue their children with a sense of empathy and compassion. Moreover, the name has gained popularity in the musical arena, thanks to the influential American gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. Her powerful voice and heartfelt performances contributed to the name's recognition and association with spiritual and emotional depth. Overall, the name Mahalia resonates with a rich history and remains relevant in contemporary culture.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Mahalia.
      Johnson

      is the most common surname for Mahalia.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Mahalia.

      Mary

      is the most common child name for Mahalia.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1870 is when there were the most people born with the first name Mahalia.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.