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Ruhama
Pronounced roo-HAH-mah /ruˈhɑ.mɑ/Medium
Meaning: From Hebrew Ruchamah, 'she has obtained mercy; she is pitied.' In the Book of Hosea, the prophet's daughter is first called Lo-Ruhamah ('not pitied') and then, in the turn of the prophecy, Ruhamah — mercy restored.Medium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Ruhama comes from Hebrew Ruchamah, 'she has obtained mercy; she is pitied,' built on the root r-ch-m, which also gives the words for compassion and womb. Its biblical home is the Book of Hosea, where a daughter's name is changed from Lo-Ruhamah ('not pitied') to Ruhamah as a sign of restored favor. The name is used in Jewish families and in Christian circles drawn to Hosea (said 'roo-HAH-mah').
In the U.S. it is very rare. Rare, biblical, and merciful in tone.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Ruhama mean?
Ruhama is Hebrew for 'she has obtained mercy; she is pitied,' from the root meaning compassion.
How do you pronounce Ruhama?
It's said roo-HAH-mah /ruˈhɑ.mɑ/ — three syllables, stress on the second.
Is Ruhama a boy or girl name?
Ruhama is a girl's name.
How popular is Ruhama?
Ruhama is very rare in the U.S.