Eleazar

Eleazar is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin, derived from the elements el, meaning "God," and ezer, meaning "help." The name is often interpreted as "God has helped" or "God is my helper." Variants include Eliezer and Elazar, and it has been used in Jewish and Christian traditions since ancient times.

In the Hebrew Bible, Eleazar appears as several figures, the most prominent being Eleazar the son of Aaron, who served as high priest after his father and headed the priestly line during the wilderness period. His descendants continued the priestly office in subsequent generations. The name also appears in later Jewish history and literature, sometimes in abbreviated or alternative forms.

Elazar ben Ya’ir, commonly rendered Eleazar of Masada, was a leader of Jewish rebels during the First Jewish–Roman War. He is remembered for his leadership at Masada, where the last Jewish defenders made a stand against Roman forces.

In 2 Maccabees, Eleazar the priest—described as the elder Eleazar, son of Ananias—is portrayed as a model of piety who refused to violate ritual law, choosing martyrdom rather than transgress. This account is often cited as an exemplar of fidelity under persecution.

In medieval Jewish tradition, Eleazar of Worms (a nickname for a German rabbi and mystic) is noted as a prominent figure in Ashkenazi rabbinic and early kabbalistic circles, contributing to the tradition of Jewish legal and mystical writing.

Beyond these figures, the name Eleazar has remained common in Jewish communities and has been carried into modern usage in its various forms, including Eliezer and Elazar. The name’s longevity reflects its biblical pedigree and enduring cultural resonance.