Bartholomew Name Meaning — Aramaic Origin, Boy Name & History (2025)

Bartholomew is a distinguished biblical name with deep roots in Christian tradition. As one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, this name carries centuries of religious significance and historical weight. Its Aramaic origin gives it a meaningful connection to ancient agricultural life and family lineage.

Meaning of Bartholomew

The name Bartholomew originates from the Aramaic Bar-Talmay (בר תלמי), which translates to ‘son of Talmai’. Talmai itself derives from the Hebrew word ‘telem’ (תלם), meaning ‘furrow’ or referring to a plowman who works the land. This agricultural reference indicates that the original Talmai was likely a farmer or someone connected to cultivation. The name thus carries the meaning ‘son of the farmer’ or ‘son of the furrow’, reflecting the importance of agriculture in ancient Semitic cultures. Through Greek transmission as Bartholomaios, it entered Christian tradition and various European languages.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Bartholomew has its origins in first-century Judea as an Aramaic patronymic name. It appears in the New Testament as one of the twelve apostles, though some scholars identify Bartholomew with Nathanael mentioned in the Gospel of John. The name spread throughout Christendom during the early Christian era, becoming particularly popular in medieval Europe. Various saints and religious figures have borne this name, cementing its place in Christian naming traditions. Today, it remains primarily used in Christian communities worldwide, with variations in many languages.

Personality Traits

Those named Bartholomew often inherit associations with wisdom, faithfulness, and spiritual depth from the apostolic namesake. They may be perceived as thoughtful individuals who value tradition and possess strong moral convictions. The name’s historical weight can influence expectations of integrity and dedication in personal and professional realms.

Similar Names

If you like Bartholomew, consider: Nathaniel, Matthew, Thomas, Timothy, Benjamin

Famous People Named Bartholomew

• Saint Bartholomew — One of the twelve apostles of Jesus in Christian tradition
• Bartholomew I — Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople since 1991

Frequently Asked Questions About Bartholomew

What does Bartholomew mean?

Bartholomew means 'son of Talmai', with Talmai meaning 'furrow' or 'plowman' in Hebrew. The full meaning is 'son of the farmer' or 'son of the furrow', originating from Aramaic/Hebrew.

Is Bartholomew a boy or girl name?

Bartholomew is exclusively a masculine name. It has been used as a boy's name since biblical times and has no established feminine variants in traditional usage.

What is the origin of Bartholomew?

Bartholomew originates from Aramaic (Bar-Talmay) with Hebrew roots (telem meaning furrow). It entered Christian tradition through the New Testament as the name of one of the twelve apostles.