Does the Name Cory Appear in the Bible?




  • The name Cory is not found in the Bible, but this doesn’t reduce its significance; it’s a modern name with roots in Gaelic and Old Norse languages, reflecting cultural diversity and history.
  • Cory has multiple meanings, such as “in a cauldron” or “hollow,” suggesting connections to nature and history, which can inspire self-reflection and spiritual connections for those carrying the name.
  • While no biblical characters are named Cory, names like Cornelius share thematic connections, and people named Cory can find spiritual significance through biblical virtues and metaphors related to “hollows” and “ravines.”
  • Christian teachings suggest that names, including Cory, can hold spiritual significance through faith, humility, and openness to God’s will, as demonstrated by early Church practices and biblical teachings.
This entry is part 90 of 226 in the series Names and Their Biblical Meanings

Is Cory a name found in the Bible?

After careful examination of the biblical texts, I can say with certainty that the name Cory does not appear in the Bible, neither in the Old Testament nor in the New Testament. While the name Cory is absent from scripture, there are many names and figures within the Bible that have significant meanings and historical contexts. For instance, the name Lawrence as a biblical name may not be directly referenced, but it is often associated with St. Lawrence, a prominent figure in early Christian history. Exploring the origins and meanings of biblical names can provide deeper insights into their cultural and spiritual implications.

This absence, But should not diminish the value or significance of the name for those who bear it. We must remember that the Bible, while a divinely inspired text, does not contain an exhaustive list of all names. Many beautiful and meaningful names have emerged throughout history, shaped by diverse cultures and languages, each carrying its own unique story and significance.

Historically we must consider that the Bible was written primarily in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. The name Cory, as we shall explore further, has its roots in later linguistic developments. This temporal and cultural distance explains its absence from the biblical narrative.

Psychologically, it’s important to understand that the desire to find one’s name in sacred texts often stems from a deep-seated need for connection and belonging. We all yearn to see ourselves reflected in the stories and traditions that shape our faith. But we must remember that our worth and our place in God’s plan are not determined by the presence or absence of our names in any text, no matter how holy.

I encourage those named Cory to reflect on the unique gifts and qualities they bring to the world. Your name, while not found in the pages of Scripture, is known and cherished by our Heavenly Father. He has called you by name, as the prophet Isaiah reminds us, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1).

In our modern, globalized world, we see a beautiful diversity of names, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of God’s children. This diversity is a testament to the creativity and love of our Creator, who delights in the uniqueness of each person He has made.

What does the name Cory mean?

The name Cory by many, has multiple origins and meanings, reflecting the complex nature of name etymology. Primarily, it is believed to have derived from the Gaelic name Coire, meaning “in a cauldron” or “in a hollow.” This origin speaks to the ancient Celtic connection to the land, evoking images of mystical valleys and sacred places.

Another interpretation links Cory to the Old Norse name Kori, meaning “seething pot” or “ravine.” This connection to Norse culture adds another layer of depth to the name’s history, reminding us of the interconnectedness of European cultures throughout the ages.

In some cases, Cory is considered a diminutive form of Cornelius, a name of Latin origin meaning “horn.” This connection to Roman culture further illustrates the vast web of influences that shape our modern names.

Psychologically names play a crucial role in shaping our sense of self and our place in the world. For those named Cory, the various meanings associated with their name – be it a hollow, a ravine, or a connection to ancient names – may inspire a sense of connection to nature or to historical traditions. It may unconsciously influence their perception of themselves and their relationship to the world around them.

Historically, the evolution of names like Cory demonstrates the dynamic nature of language and culture. As societies interacted through trade, conquest, and migration, names and their meanings were exchanged and adapted. This process continues today, with names crossing cultural boundaries and taking on new significance in different contexts.

In our modern context, the name Cory has gained popularity across various cultures, particularly in English-speaking countries. This trend speaks to the enduring appeal of names that connect us to our natural world and our ancestral roots, perhaps reflecting a collective desire for grounding in an increasingly fast-paced and technological world.

Let us, therefore, appreciate the name Cory not only for its linguistic origins but also for the rich cultural heritage it represents. May those who bear this name find inspiration in its meanings, recognizing that they, like the hollows and ravines evoked by their name, are unique formations in the landscape of humanity, each with their own purpose and beauty.

Are there any biblical characters with names similar to Cory?

Another name worth mentioning is Cornelius, found in the New Testament (Acts 10). As we discussed earlier, Cory is sometimes considered a diminutive of Cornelius. Cornelius was a Roman centurion, described as a devout man who feared God. His story is major as he becomes one of the first Gentile converts to Christianity, symbolizing the universal nature of God’s love and the expansion of the early Church.

Psychologically these biblical names, like Cory, can instill a sense of identity and purpose in those who bear them. They remind us that each person, regardless of their name’s origin, has a unique role to play in God’s plan.

Historically, we see how names in the Bible often carried prophetic significance or reflected the circumstances of one’s birth or calling. For instance, the name Jesus, Yeshua in Hebrew, means “Yahweh is salvation,” encapsulating His divine mission. While Cory doesn’t have this specific biblical context, its meaning can be seen as equally major in reflecting the beauty of God’s creation. Similarly, names like Jason also hold significance within scripture, as jason as a biblical name is associated with healing and deliverance, adding to its richness. This connection further illustrates how names can carry deep meanings that resonate with one’s purpose and identity in the context of faith. Ultimately, every name has the potential to reflect the intricacies of God’s creation and His plans for each individual.

While not phonetically similar, there are biblical names that share thematic connections with some interpretations of Cory. For example, if we consider Cory’s meaning of “hollow” or “ravine,” we might think of biblical characters associated with major geographical features. Moses, whose name means “drawn out of the water,” or Joshua, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land, both have names connected to natural elements.

In our modern context, where cultural exchange has enriched our naming traditions, we can appreciate how a name like Cory, though not biblical, can stand alongside biblical names in reflecting virtues and qualities that align with our faith. Each name, biblical or not, carries the potential to inspire its bearer to live out the highest ideals of our shared humanity.

What is the Hebrew or Greek origin of the name Cory, if any?

The name Cory, as we have discussed, has its roots primarily in Gaelic and Old Norse languages, which developed much later than the biblical languages of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. This linguistic distance explains why we do not find Cory or its direct equivalents in the Scriptures.

Historically it’s important to understand the development and spread of names across different cultures and time periods. The Hebrew and Greek languages, which gave us the names found in the Bible, are among the oldest continuously used languages in the world. But Cory emerged much later in history, in a different cultural and linguistic context.

Psychologically, the desire to connect one’s name to ancient biblical languages often stems from a deep-seated need for identity and belonging within our faith tradition. Many people find comfort and meaning in tracing their names back to revered texts or languages. But we must be cautious not to force connections where they do not exist, as this can lead to misunderstandings and misrepresentations of our rich linguistic heritage.

While Cory does not have Hebrew or Greek origins, this does not diminish its beauty or significance. God’s creativity is not limited to one language or culture. As the Psalmist declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1). This includes the vast diversity of languages and names that have developed throughout human history.

In our modern, globalized world, we see a beautiful intermingling of naming traditions. Parents often choose names based on their sound, meaning, or cultural significance, regardless of their linguistic origins. This trend reflects the interconnectedness of our global community and the breaking down of cultural barriers.

While Cory may not have Hebrew or Greek roots, it’s possible to find spiritual significance in its meaning that aligns with biblical values. The concept of a “hollow” or “ravine,” which some interpretations of Cory suggest, can remind us of the biblical imagery of valleys. In Psalm 23:4, we read, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This can inspire those named Cory to see themselves as protected and guided by God, even in life’s challenging moments.

Let us remember that our worth in God’s eyes is not determined by the origin of our names, but by our actions and the love we show to one another. As Saint Paul reminds us, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12).

While Cory does not have Hebrew or Greek origins, it is a beautiful name with its own rich linguistic heritage. Let us celebrate the diversity of names and languages as a reflection of God’s boundless creativity and love for all His children. May those named Cory find inspiration in the meaning of their name, recognizing that they too are fearfully and wonderfully made, known and loved by our Creator.

Are there any Bible verses that relate to the meaning of Cory?

As we have discussed, Cory is often associated with meanings such as “hollow,” “ravine,” or “seething pot.” These natural formations and phenomena can serve as powerful metaphors for our spiritual journey and God’s work in our lives. Let us explore some biblical passages that might speak to these themes.

Let us consider the image of a hollow or ravine. In Psalm 23:4, we read, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” This verse reminds us that God is present with us even in the lowest and darkest places of our lives. For those named Cory, this can be a powerful reminder that their name carries connotations of God’s protective presence in challenging times.

The prophet Isaiah offers another relevant passage: “Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain” (Isaiah 40:4). This verse speaks to God’s power to transform and redeem, turning low places into level ground. It can inspire those named Cory to see themselves as part of God’s transformative work in the world.

If we consider the “seething pot” interpretation of Cory, we might turn to Jeremiah 1:13-14, where God shows Jeremiah a vision of a boiling pot. While in this context it symbolizes impending judgment, we can also see it as a metaphor for the transformative power of God’s word and spirit in our lives, refining and purifying us.

Psychologically these biblical connections can provide a sense of purpose and identity for those named Cory. They can see their name as a reminder of God’s presence in the depths, His power to transform, and His refining work in their lives.

Historically, we see how natural formations like valleys and ravines played major roles in biblical narratives. The Valley of Elah, where David faced Goliath (1 Samuel 17), or the Valley of Dry Bones in Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 37), are examples of how these geographical features became stages for God’s mighty acts.

In the New Testament, we find Jesus often retreating to lonely places, which could be understood as hollows or ravines, for prayer and communion with the Father (Luke 5:16). This can inspire those named Cory to see their name as a call to seek quiet places for spiritual renewal and connection with God.

Although there may not be Bible verses that directly relate to the name Cory, we can find rich spiritual significance in verses that speak to the themes evoked by its meaning. Let those named Cory find inspiration in these passages, seeing their name as a reminder of God’s presence in the depths, His transformative power, and His call to spiritual renewal.

How can someone named Cory connect their name to their Christian faith?

The name we bear is a gift, a unique identifier that shapes our identity and can serve as a constant reminder of our relationship with God. Although the name Cory does not have direct biblical origins, this does not diminish its potential for spiritual significance in one’s Christian journey.

For those named Cory, connecting their name to their faith can be a powerful exercise in personal reflection and spiritual growth. we must recognize that every name, regardless of its origin, can be imbued with Christian meaning through the life of faith we lead. As Saint Paul reminds us, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). Thus, a person named Cory can dedicate their name and their life to Christ, making it a vessel for God’s love and grace.

Psychologically our names play a crucial role in shaping our self-concept and how we interact with the world. By consciously associating one’s name with Christian virtues and ideals, a person named Cory can use their name as a daily affirmation of their faith and commitment to Christ.

One approach is to explore the etymological roots and cultural meanings associated with the name Cory. While not directly biblical, Cory is often linked to the Gaelic word “coire,” meaning “in a cauldron” or “in a hollow.” This imagery can be spiritually reinterpreted as being held in God’s hands or nestled in His protective care. Such a perspective aligns beautifully with Psalm 91:4, which speaks of finding refuge under God’s wings.

Another method is to identify biblical characters or virtues whose names or attributes begin with the same letter as Cory. For instance, one might meditate on the courage of Christ, the compassion of the Good Samaritan, or the commitment of the apostles. By associating these qualities with their name, a person named Cory can strive to embody these Christian virtues in their daily life.

Historically, we see that early Christians often chose names based on their meanings or associations with virtues. While Cory may not have been among these early Christian names, the practice of infusing names with spiritual significance is deeply rooted in our tradition. A person named Cory can continue this tradition by consciously choosing to live out their faith through their name.

In our Christian understanding of baptism, we recognize that each person is called by name into God’s family. This sacramental reality means that whatever name we bear becomes sanctified through our incorporation into Christ. Therefore, the name Cory, when belonging to a baptized Christian, is already connected to their faith in a powerful way.

As a community of faith, we can support those named Cory in making these connections. We might encourage them to choose a saint’s name at confirmation that resonates with them, providing an additional layer of spiritual identity. We can also affirm the unique ways in which they live out their faith, recognizing how their individual qualities reflect God’s diverse creation.

What did the early Church Fathers teach about names and their importance in Christianity?

Saint Jerome, the great biblical scholar, devoted considerable attention to the meaning of names. In his work “Liber Interpretationis Hebraicorum Nominum” (Book of Interpretation of Hebrew Names), he provided etymologies for biblical names, believing that understanding these meanings could unlock deeper spiritual truths (Edwards, 2024). This approach demonstrates the early Church’s conviction that names carried theological significance worthy of careful study and reflection.

The practice of taking new names at baptism was widely observed in the early a custom that some of the Fathers addressed in their writings. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, in his catechetical lectures, spoke of how the newly baptized received a “new name” in Christ, symbolizing their rebirth and new identity as children of God (Edwards, 2024). This practice underscores the belief that names were not static labels, but could be vehicles of spiritual transformation.

Psychologically we can appreciate how this understanding of names would have shaped the early Christians’ sense of identity and purpose. To bear a name with a known spiritual meaning was to carry a constant reminder of one’s place in God’s plan. It served we see that the Church Fathers often drew parallels between the naming of individuals and the names of God revealed in Scripture. Saint Gregory of Nyssa, for instance, wrote extensively on the divine names, seeing in them a means of understanding, albeit imperfectly, the nature of God (Edwards, 2024). This connection between human and divine naming emphasized the sacred nature of the act of naming and the responsibility it entailed.

It’s important to note, But that Although the Church Fathers placed great importance on the meaning of names, they also cautioned against superstition or an overemphasis on names at the expense of faith and virtue. Saint John Chrysostom, known for his practical wisdom, reminded his flock that it was not the name itself, but the virtues associated with it, that truly mattered (Edwards, 2024).

The Fathers also recognized the cultural diversity within the growing Church and addressed the use of non-biblical names. While they encouraged the use of names with Christian significance, they did not mandate a strict adherence to biblical names only. This flexibility allowed for the incorporation of local cultural practices into Christian naming traditions, reflecting the universal nature of the Gospel (Edwards, 2024).

Are there any spiritual qualities associated with the name Cory?

Historically we must acknowledge that the name Cory does not have direct biblical roots or explicit spiritual associations in early Christian tradition. But I would encourage us to look beyond literal interpretations and seek the deeper spiritual truths that can be found in all aspects of our lives, including our names.

The name Cory is often associated with various etymological origins. One common derivation is from the Gaelic word “coire,” meaning “in a hollow” or “in a cauldron” (Li, 2020, pp. 30–36). While this may seem mundane at first glance, we can, through the lens of faith, discern spiritual qualities that resonate with Christian virtues and experiences.

The imagery of a hollow or cauldron can evoke the concept of being a vessel, open and ready to be filled. In a spiritual sense, this can be interpreted as a readiness to receive God’s grace and wisdom. We are reminded of the words of Saint Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:7, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” A person named Cory might be encouraged to see themselves as a humble vessel, prepared to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to pour out God’s love to others.

The idea of being “in a hollow” can symbolize humility and groundedness. In the Christian tradition, humility is a cornerstone virtue, exemplified by Christ Himself who “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8). A person named Cory might find in their name a call to cultivate this essential Christian virtue.

Psychologically we understand that the meanings we attribute to our names can significantly influence our self-perception and behavior. By consciously associating their name with these spiritual qualities, a person named Cory can use it as a daily reminder of their Christian vocation to humility, openness to God’s grace, and service to others.

Another approach to finding spiritual qualities in the name Cory is to look at the virtues associated with its individual letters. For instance:

C – Could represent Compassion, a fundamental Christian virtue exemplified by Christ’s love for humanity.

O – Might stand for Obedience, recalling our call to follow God’s will in our lives.

R – Could signify Righteousness, the state of being in right relationship with God.

Y – Might represent Yielding to the Holy Spirit, allowing God to work through us.

Although these associations are not inherent to the name itself, they can serve as meaningful touchstones for spiritual reflection and growth for someone named Cory.

In our Christian tradition, the importance of a name lies not in its literal meaning but in the person who bears it and how they live out their faith. As Saint John Chrysostom taught, it is not the name itself but the virtues associated with it that truly matter (Edwards, 2024). Therefore, the spiritual qualities associated with the name Cory will ultimately be those embodied by the individuals who bear this name and live out their Christian faith.

How has the name Cory been used in Christian history?

Historically the name Cory is relatively modern in its usage as a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its origins are diverse, with possible roots in Gaelic, Norse, and Greek languages (Li, 2020, pp. 30–36). This diversity reflects the vast web of cultures that have contributed to Christian history over the centuries.

Although we cannot point to specific historical Christian figures named Cory who have played major roles in shaping our faith tradition, we can reflect on how names similar to Cory have been used in Christian contexts. For instance, names with similar sounds or etymological roots might have been used by Christians throughout history, even if not recorded prominently in our historical records.

It is worth noting that in the early the practice of taking new names at baptism was common, symbolizing a new identity in Christ (Edwards, 2024). This tradition continues in some form today, particularly in the choosing of confirmation or religious names in certain Christian denominations. Although we do not have specific evidence of Cory being used in this context historically, the principle of imbuing names with spiritual significance is deeply rooted in our Christian heritage.

Psychologically we understand that the meaning and use of names can evolve over time and across cultures. The name Cory, while not historically prominent in Christian contexts, has undoubtedly been borne by countless faithful Christians over the years who have lived out their faith in both ordinary and extraordinary ways.

In more recent Christian history, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries, we can observe the use of the name Cory among Christians in various denominations. Although these individuals may not have achieved the historical prominence of saints or Church Fathers, their lives and faith journeys contribute to the ongoing story of Christianity.

It is also important to consider that in our globalized world, names from various cultural backgrounds, including Cory, have become more widely used among Christians. This reflects the universal nature of our faith and the diversity of God’s people. I have often emphasized the importance of cultural diversity within the unity of our faith, and this extends to the names we bear.

Although we may not find extensive historical records of the name Cory in Christian contexts, we can look to the broader principles of how names have been understood and used in Christian tradition. The early Church Fathers, for instance, saw names as carriers of deep spiritual meaning and even prophetic power (Edwards, 2024). This understanding can be applied to any name, including Cory, as believers seek to live out the spiritual significance of their names.

In our Christian understanding of baptism, we recognize that each person is called by name into God’s family. This sacramental reality means that whatever name we bear becomes sanctified through our incorporation into Christ. Therefore, every Cory who has been baptized into the Christian faith has, in a powerful sense, made that name part of Christian history through their life of faith.

Although we may not find extensive historical records of the name Cory in Christian annals, we must remember that the true history of our faith is written not just in books, but in the lives of all believers. Every Christian named Cory who has lived out their faith with sincerity and love has contributed to the ongoing story of Christianity. Let us encourage those who bear this name to see themselves as part of this living history, called to write new chapters of faith, love, and service in their own lives and communities.

May all those named Cory recognize that they are part of the great cloud of witnesses, each called by name to follow Christ and to contribute to the unfolding story of God’s love in the world. Let their lives be a testament to the enduring power of faith, regardless of the historical prominence of their name.

What biblical values or virtues might a person named Cory strive to embody?

We must recognize that the core virtues of our faith – faith, hope, and love – are universal calls to all Christians, regardless of their name. As Saint Paul beautifully expresses in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” A person named Cory, like all followers of Christ, is called to embody these fundamental virtues in their daily life.

But we can also look to the unique qualities that might be associated with the name Cory and find biblical parallels that can serve as inspiration. The name Cory, often linked to the Gaelic word “coire” meaning “in a hollow” or “in a cauldron,” can evoke imagery of being a vessel (Li, 2020, pp. 30–36). This concept resonates deeply with biblical teachings about being vessels for God’s purposes.

In 2 Timothy 2:21, we read, “Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.” A person named Cory might strive to embody this virtue of being a willing and prepared vessel for God’s work in the world. This could manifest as a commitment to service, an openness to God’s calling, and a readiness to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

The imagery of a hollow or cauldron can also suggest humility, a virtue repeatedly emphasized in Scripture. Jesus himself taught, “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). A person named Cory might find in their name a reminder to cultivate this essential Christian virtue, striving to embody the humility of Christ in their interactions with others and in their relationship with God.

Discover more from Christian Pure

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Share to...