Discussion: 19 "J" Names and Counting

Even with nineteen kids, there are plenty of "J" names that the Duggars have not used. How many can you come up with? 

Thanks to a loyal reader for giving us the idea for this discussion question! 

Duggar Name Meanings

Just because you are one of twenty-one doesn't mean that you aren't unique. Each of the Duggar children has a name with a distinct meaning (who knew there were so many "J" names out there?). Take a look at the list below, and get an idea of what Jim Bob and Michelle were thinking when they welcomed each of their blessings into the world.
*Why so many "J" names? Click here to find out!

Joshua: God is salvation

Jana: God is gracious

John-David: God’s Grace

Jill: Youthful

Jessa: God beholds

Jinger: Pep; liveliness

Joseph: The Lord’s addition (to the family)

Josiah: Jehovah helps

Joy-Anna: Rejoicing; jubilation

Jedidiah: Friend of God; loved by God

Jeremiah: Exalted by God

Jason: Healer

James: Supplant; replace

Justin: Just; fair

Jackson: God’s grace

Johannah: God is gracious

Jennifer: Pure and yielding

Jordyn-Grace: Jordyn: flowing down; Grace: God’s favor

Josie: God will add 

Caleb: Whole hearted
Jubilee Shalom: Joyful celebration of peace

Jim-Bob (James): Supplant; replace

Michelle: Who resembles God

Anna: Favored grace

Mackynzie: Fair; favored one

Michael: Who resembles God

What does your name mean?

Why So Many "J" Names?

Josh, Jana, John-David, Jill, Jessa, Jinger, Joseph. Do you notice a pattern? Ever wonder why the Duggar kids' names all start with the same letter? You may be surprised to hear that Jim Bob and Michelle did not set out to have a brood of children with "J" names.

As new parents, they fell in love with the name Joshua, after the courageous biblical character. Nearly two years later, Jim Bob and Michelle were blessed with twins. The two names that they chose, Jana and John-David, just happened to start with the letter "J." Not knowing how many more children God would give them, the young couple decided to name their next child, Jill, with a "J" name as well, just in case she was their last.

As their family grew, Jim Bob and Michelle continued the tradition so that none of their children would feel left out. The family has had a lot of fun choosing unique "J" names over the years; everyone likes to join in on the action!

What are your favorite "J" names?