The forth most popular boy's name in the US in 2007 was Joshua. Like the first three names, the name Joshua comes from the Bible. While Moses was only able to see the Promised Land from a distance, Joshua, who succeeded him, was the one chosen by God, according to the Bible, to lead the Israelites back from Egypt to the Promised Land. Suitably, in Hebrew, the name Joshua means God is my salvation.
The name Joshua has been on the top ten list for boys' names in the US since 1979.
There are many variations to the name, in many languages around the world, including Josh, the Arabic name Yushua, the French Josue, and the Dutch Jozua. But of course the most well-known variation of the name Joshua is Jesus.
2009 Update:
Joshua has moved down to 6th place. Not a significant move. It's future as a top 10 name seems safe.
2010 Update:
Spoke to soon. After over 30 years as a top 10 name, Joshua has moved to 11. Will the slide down continue, or will Joshua remain a solid choice for American parents (even if not a top 10 choice)?
