Boy · Hebrew · New Testament

Ananias

Q: Is Ananias a biblical name?

Yes. Ananias appears in the New Testament. Ananias was a devout Jewish Christian living in Damascus during the early days of the church. When the Lord called him in a vision to go and pray for Saul of Tarsus, Ananias was understandably hesitant. He knew Saul's reputation as a fierce persecutor who had come to Damascus to arrest the saints.

an-uh-NY-us · means “The Lord has been gracious”

Ananias is a Hebrew name meaning 'the Lord has been gracious.' In the New Testament, Ananias was a faithful disciple in Damascus who overcame his fear to minister to Saul of Tarsus. His obedience helped pave the way for the transformation of the church's greatest persecutor.

Grace Courage Peace

“In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, 'Ananias!' 'Yes, Lord,' he answered.”
— Acts 9:10 (NIV)

The story behind the name

Ananias was a devout Jewish Christian living in Damascus during the early days of the church. When the Lord called him in a vision to go and pray for Saul of Tarsus, Ananias was understandably hesitant. He knew Saul's reputation as a fierce persecutor who had come to Damascus to arrest the saints.

Yet, when the Lord explained that Saul was a chosen instrument to carry the gospel, Ananias obeyed immediately. He went to the house, laid his hands on Saul, and addressed him warmly as 'Brother Saul.' This simple act of obedience restored Saul's sight and led to his baptism.

Through Ananias's courageous steps of faith, the apostle Paul was welcomed into the Christian family. Ananias remains a powerful example of how God uses ordinary believers to accomplish extraordinary purposes through simple obedience. A boy named Ananias carries a legacy of grace, hospitality, and courage.

Spiritual Encouragement

If you find comfort in Ananias’s story, you may also appreciate our prayer resource:

Read A Prayer for Fear →

A blessing to pray over Ananias

Lord, grant this child the courage to obey Your voice, even when the path seems difficult or frightening. May his life show Your grace to others, and may he be a builder of peace and reconciliation. Amen.