Meaning: Its source is Yishai, a Hebrew name meaning "Gift."

Origin: "Yishai."

Narrative: Some authorities believe that the Hebrew name Yaasai (meaning ''God lives'') was the source of Jesse.

Meaning: Its source is Iscah, a Hebrew name meaning "He beholds."

Origin: "Iscah."

Narrative: William Shakespeare invented the modern name Jessica for Shylock's daughter in his play The Merchant of Venice. Though he may have intended it to denote a typical Jewish girl, the name has become popular with all ethnic groups.