Scientists say Jesus wasn’t actually called Jesus

Historians believe that the name “Jesus” we use today is far from what the Son of God would have been called during his lifetime. In fact, his original name likely sounded nothing like the one we know.

The name “Jesus” didn’t exist 2,000 years ago

Jesus of Nazareth was born over 2,000 years ago in the region of Judea, now part of modern-day Israel. But scholars have pointed out that the name “Jesus” didn’t exist in his native language of Aramaic, nor did the hard “J” sound that we use in English today.

Professor Lawrence Mykytiuk, a historian at Purdue University, explains that Jesus was likely born sometime between 6 and 4 BCE. At that time, he would not have introduced himself as “Jesus” because the name and pronunciation didn’t exist. Instead, historians believe he went by the name Yeshua or possibly its shorter form, Yeshu.

How did the name change over time?

The story of Jesus spread far and wide after his death, moving through different cultures and languages. Each time, his name was translated and adapted.

• In Aramaic, his native tongue, he was likely called Yeshua.
• When his story reached Hebrew speakers, the name remained similar: Yehoshua or Yeshua.
• From there, Greek translators used the name Iēsous because Greek doesn’t have the same sounds as Aramaic.
• The Romans, using Latin, adapted it to Iesus.
• Finally, during the 16th century, the name became Jesus in English, as the letter “J” entered modern language.

This long journey of translation means that “Jesus” is an anglicized version of a name that would have sounded very different to the people who actually knew him.

Was his last name “Christ”?

No, Jesus didn’t have a last name as we use them today. Instead, the title “Christ” comes from the Greek word Christos, meaning “anointed one” or “messiah.” It’s more of a title than a surname.

If Jesus were to have a second name, it would likely have been tied to his hometown. In that case, he might have been known as Yeshu the Nazarene or Yeshu Nazareen, referencing his connection to Nazareth.

Why does this matter?

For many, the name “Jesus Christ” is sacred and deeply ingrained in religious traditions. However, learning about the history of his name offers insight into how stories, languages, and cultures change over time. It also reminds us that Jesus lived in a very different world than our own—a world where names reflected one’s culture and location.

As Professor Dineke Houtman of the Protestant Theological University explains, “It is likely that this is how he introduced himself: Yeshua.” Similarly, Professor Candida Moss from the University of Birmingham adds, “Most scholars agree that his name was Yeshua or possibly Yeshu, one of the most common names in first-century Galilee.”

What’s in a name?

While the name “Yeshu Nazareen” may not have the same familiar ring to it as “Jesus Christ,” understanding his real name brings us closer to understanding the historical figure behind the faith. It also underscores how names and traditions evolve over centuries, shaped by culture and language.

Even though his name has changed, the message and impact of Jesus—or Yeshua—remain timeless for millions of people around the world.