Jozua

Jozua is the Dutch form of the given name Joshua, derived from the Hebrew Yehoshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." It is used primarily in Dutch-speaking regions for boys and can appear in both religious and secular contexts.

In the Hebrew Bible, Jozua is Moses' aide who succeeds him as leader of the Israelites. He leads the people into Canaan after the Exodus, overseeing the crossing of the Jordan and the conquest campaigns, including the fall of Jericho and the defeat at Ai. The Book of Jozua recounts the distribution of the land among the tribes and the reaffirmation of the covenant with God.

Jozua is regarded in Jewish and Christian traditions as a faithful and courageous leader. The narrative emphasizes obedience, trust in God, and the fulfillment of divine promises. The figure is cited in various religious texts as an exemplar of leadership, and the name remains common across multiple languages.

Today, Jozua remains a popular given name in the Netherlands and Belgium. Variants of the name appear in many languages, reflecting its enduring association with the biblical Joshua and its meanings of salvation and deliverance.