Reuven

Reuven is the Hebrew form of the name often written Reuben in English Bibles. Its traditional meaning is behold, a son, bringing together the ideas of seeing and a son. In Genesis, Reuven is the eldest child of Jacob and Leah, and his name becomes associated with one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Using Reuven can preserve the Hebrew form more directly than choosing the familiar English spelling. Reuben and Ruben offer useful comparisons within the same family, especially when relatives use different languages. The name has its own place in Jewish family and religious life, while the biblical account makes its history accessible to a wider readership. Its story begins with a named child and family, rather than an abstract virtue.