Beth Hatefutsoth boasts a unique resource: the Memi De-Shalit Database of Jewish Family Names which currently contains more than 20,000 entries, with more being added constantly. Started in the early 1980's, it instantly became a major attraction of Beth Hatefutsoth. As the only digital collection of Jewish surnames in the world, the Database of Jewish Family Names aims to preserve an important aspect of Jewish heritage and make sure the information is safeguarded for the benefit of future generations.

The Memi De-Shalit Database of Jewish Family Names includes explanations about the meaning, origin, and historical development of surnames used by Jews from all communities in the Diaspora. A special effort has been undertaken to record and document rare names that in some cases, especially due to immigration to Israel and North America in modern times, are no longer in use. The information provided refers to the historical origin of the surnames, their etymology, equivalents, spelling variants in different languages, and geographical dispersion of related forms. A typical entry also contains references to personalities and individuals who bore the family name described in the article though no reference is made to individual family histories or personal details. For the time being, the information is available in English only.

Understanding the meaning and origin of a family name is an important tool for any genealogical research; however, Beth Hatefutsoth does not provide a family tracing service. Visitors seeking information about their ancestors and family trees are recommended to send a separate search order to The Douglas E. Goldman Jewish Genealogy Center at Beth Hatefutsoth.

DID YOU EVER WONDER ABOUT THE MEANING OF YOUR FAMILY NAME?

Now is your chance to find out more about the origin of your family name!
Send us a Search Order.
Price: NIS 25.00 for up to 3 family names.

Results of your search order will be sent by e-mail or mail for orders received by regular mail and fax.

Please note that not every family name requested will be found in the Memi De-Shalit Database of Jewish Family Names at Beth Hatefutsoth. The research continues and the database is being updated all the time with new entries. We will notify you if the information requested is not currently available.

The information about family names does not comprise any genealogical details and does not reflect any specific family history. For information about your ancestry and family trees, please visit The Douglas E. Goldman Jewish Genealogy Center at Beth Hatefutsoth.