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Gershon
Gershon Pronunciation
Gershon is pronounced GUR-shon /ˈɡɜr.ʃoʊn/High
Meaning: Sojourner, stranger there; the name of Levi's firstborn son, ancestor of the Gershonite LevitesMedium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Gershon was the firstborn of Levi in Genesis, ancestor of the Gershonite division of Levites; the name is traditionally tied to ger, 'stranger, sojourner' — 'a stranger there' — echoing Moses' own son Gershom, named in exile. It has remained in continuous Jewish use for three millennia.
Ashkenazi history decorates it through figures like Rabbeinu Gershom, the medieval 'Light of the Exile' whose decrees shaped European Jewish life. In the U.S. the name lives chiefly in Orthodox communities and remains rare beyond them.
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Frequently Asked
How do you pronounce Gershon?
Gershon is pronounced GUR-shon (/ˈɡɜr.ʃoʊn/). Press play above to hear Gershon said aloud.
How do you say Gershon?
Gershon is said GUR-shon (/ˈɡɜr.ʃoʊn/). Press play above to hear Gershon said aloud.
What does the name Gershon mean?
Gershon is traditionally tied to Hebrew ger, 'stranger, sojourner' — 'a sojourner there' — the name of Levi's firstborn son.
Is Gershon a boy or girl name?
Gershon is a boy's name.
How popular is Gershon?
Gershon is rare nationally and steady within Orthodox Jewish communities.