Bethany

Bethany is the biblical village near Jerusalem associated with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Its name has more than one proposed interpretation, including explanations involving figs or affliction. The place identity is much more secure than a single literal translation, so “house of figs” should not be presented as the only settled meaning.

Beth offers a familiar shorter form, although the independent name Beth can also come from Elizabeth. Bethany preserves the complete place name and its New Testament connection. Families choosing it for religious reasons may value that geographical and narrative history more than deciding among competing explanations of the older name’s elements.