Pronunciation: [zɛfˈe͡ɪnˈa͡ɪ͡ə] (IPA) 
The name Zephaniah is spelled with a "z" followed by "eph" which is pronounced as /ˈzɛf/. The next syllable is "a" pronounced as /eɪ/ and the last syllable is "niyah" pronounced as /naɪə/. Therefore, the complete IPA transcription for Zephaniah is /ˌzɛfəˈnaɪə/. The name Zephaniah comes from Hebrew origins and means "hidden by God." This name is often given to boys and has been used since biblical times.
Zephaniah is a proper noun that refers to a Hebrew name of biblical origin. It is predominantly used as a male given name, but can also be used as a surname. The name Zephaniah comes from the Hebrew language, specifically from the combination of two elements: "Zaphan" means "to hide" or "to protect," and "Yah" or "Yahweh" refers to the Hebrew name for God. Thus, Zephaniah can be interpreted as "God has hidden" or "protected by God."
In the biblical context, Zephaniah appears as the name of multiple individuals, including a minor prophet mentioned in the Old Testament. This prophet is believed to have delivered messages from God, offering prophecies regarding the coming judgment and salvation. The Book of Zephaniah, attributed to this prophet, is considered one of the twelve prophetic books in the Hebrew Bible.
Beyond its biblical significance, Zephaniah serves as a unique and distinct name choice that holds religious and historical weight. Its usage may indicate a connection to biblical heritage, a tribute to prophetic wisdom, or simply an appreciation of its distinctiveness and evocative sound.
The name "Zephaniah" is of Hebrew origin. In Hebrew, it is spelled "צְפַנְיָה" and pronounced as "Tsephanyah". The name is derived from two Hebrew words: "tsaphan", which means "to hide" or "to treasure", and "Yah", which is a shortened form of the divine name of God. Therefore, "Zephaniah" can be interpreted to mean "hidden by God" or "Yahweh hides".
