Our take: Biblical names aren't a new trend for parents looking to name their newborn children; however, the popularity tends to rise and fall. In 2011, names with a Biblical origin were once again trending for new babies. While names like 'John' or 'Mary' have been so frequently used they're classics, names are now being chosen from the Old Testament for their retro vibe.
The list of the countrys most popular baby names for 2011, released Tuesday by the Social Security Administration, revealed that for new parents, God is in.
Among the top 10 names for baby boys, four are biblical. For girls, variations on biblical names were also popular, with Isabella (the Spanish version of Elizabeth, John the Baptists mother) Ava (a variation on Eve) and Abigail (an Old Testament character) making the top 10.
What is it that compels 21st century parents to name their kids after an Old Testament patriarch (in the case of Jacob) or the man credited with saving creation (thanks, Noah!) during the Great Flood?
Read more at the Washington Post.