Meaning of the Benaroya family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Benaroya coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Benaroya name meaning and origin
Benaroya is a surname of Sephardic Jewish origin, primarily associated with families from the Mediterranean region. The name is thought to derive from the Arabic term "bani," meaning "sons of," combined with “aroya,” which may refer to a geographical location or ancestral lineage.
History of family crests like the Benaroya coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Benaroya name variations and their meaning
The family name Benaroya displays intriguing variations that reflect the linguistic evolution across different regions. In Italy, the name may transform into Benaroi or Benarola, influenced by regional dialects in the 16th and 17th centuries, where vowel endings became more prominent. Meanwhile, in Spain, a modification to Benaroyas emerged in the 18th century, showcasing the common practice of adding an 's' for pluralization or indicating lineage. As for the Middle East, particularly in the 19th century, the name could appear as Benaroiya, enhanced by local phonetics and the incorporation of Arabic sounds. Furthermore, in the Americas, particularly with Jewish immigrants in the 20th century, the name sometimes adopted the anglicized form Benary, illustrating the adaptation to a new culture while retaining a connection to its roots. Each of these variations not only represents a geographical location but also a historical context that enriches the narrative of the name's journey through time.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
