Abraxas

What does the baby name Abraxas mean? Learn about what Abraxas means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Abraxas - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Abraxas
A-B-R-A-X-A-S, is a 7-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Abraxas
uh BRAHK suhs
Meaning of Abraxas
A mystical word.
Origin of Abraxas
The name 'Abraxas' finds its origins in ancient Gnostic beliefs. Gnosticism was a religious movement that emerged in the early centuries of Christianity, blending elements of Greek philosophy, Judaism, and Eastern mysticism. In Gnostic cosmology, 'Abraxas' was considered a god-like figure, representing both good and evil, light and darkness. The name itself is believed to have been derived from the ancient Greek word 'Abraxas' or 'abracadabra', which was used as a magical incantation.
Gothic Names
Greek Names
Mythological Names
Popularity of Abraxas
While the name 'Abraxas' may not be commonly heard today, it had its moments of popularity throughout history. During the Renaissance period, there was a resurgence of interest in ancient philosophies and mystical beliefs, including Gnosticism. This led to a brief spike in the usage of the name 'Abraxas', particularly among scholars and intellectuals who were fascinated by the esoteric nature of the Gnostic teachings.
Abraxas currently has 1 like, and is in the top 14% of liked boy's names. The name Adom is slightly more popular than Abraxas.

Etymology of Abraxas

To understand the etymology of 'Abraxas', we must turn to its Greek roots. The word 'Abraxas' is believed to be derived from the Greek word 'abrazo', which means 'to reach' or 'to touch'. This reflects the idea that 'Abraxas' was seen as a deity who bridged the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. Additionally, the number value of the letters in the word 'Abraxas' adds up to 365, representing the days in a year and symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence.

Cultural Significance of Abraxas

The name 'Abraxas' holds significant cultural importance within the realm of Gnosticism. In Gnostic cosmology, 'Abraxas' was considered a powerful and complex deity, embodying both divine and demonic qualities. This duality represented the Gnostic belief in the existence of a divine spark within all human beings, as well as the struggle between good and evil in the material world. 'Abraxas' was often depicted as a hybrid creature with the body of a man, the head of a rooster or a lion, and serpents for legs, symbolizing the merging of different forces and energies.