Girl · Greek · New Testament · Biblically inspired

Philippa

fih-LIP-uh · means “Lover of horses”

Philippa is the feminine form of Philip, meaning "lover of horses." It is not itself a name in Scripture, but it derives from Philip, one of the twelve disciples, remembered for his honest questions and for bringing his friend Nathanael to meet Jesus.

“Jesus answered: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father."”

The story behind the name

Philippa has long been used in England, valued as an elegant, historic form of Philip, and it remains a distinctive choice for families wanting a name with deep roots.

Philip was among the first disciples called by Jesus, and he immediately went to find his friend Nathanael, telling him, "Come and see" (John 1:45-46). At the Last Supper, Philip asked Jesus plainly to show the disciples the Father, prompting one of Jesus's clearest self-revelations: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9).

Philip's honest, searching questions gave Jesus room to teach some of His deepest truths. A daughter named Philippa carries that same spirit, an openness to ask hard questions and a willingness to bring others along to see the answer for themselves.

Middle names that sing with Philippa

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

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