The Biblical Significance Behind Supermodel Ashley Graham’s Son’s Name
By Allyson Vannatta, Staff Writer
Supermodel Ashley Graham welcomed a baby boy into the world a few weeks ago, and his name has biblical significance.
Graham and her husband, filmmaker Justin Ervin, chose to name their son Isaac Menelik Giovanni Ervin.
Ervin joined his wife on her podcast, Pretty Big Deal, and explained the reason behind their son’s first name.
“My sister Kia and I would have discussions about, ‘Oh, one day, when we have kids … ‘ ” Ervin explained of picking out the name Issac in middle school. “I brainstormed my own name for my future son, and I knew it was gonna be Isaac.”
The second name, Menelik, was inspired by a trip to Ethiopia. While traveling there, they learned Ethiopia’s first emperor was named Menelik, which means “son of the wise.” The emperor was the son of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon.
Ervin said, “Everything was pointing to legacy. Whether it’s Isaac, with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, or Menelik being royal, African roots.”
Then the couple described how Giovanni is significant to their family.
Both Graham and Ervin’s grandfathers’ names are John, and the founder of the church where Ervin’s parents were “saved and baptized” is named John.
Before detailing the legacy behind their newborn’s name, Graham said,
“I have so many reasons to be grateful; all of the love and support from this amazing community, an incredible husband, and a beautiful baby who has opened my eyes to just how amazing this world really is.”
“We’re a family forever,” said Graham.
