Unearthing My Origins: The Perez Lineage Through an iGENEA DNA Lens
Family name Perez
The result of my iGENEA DNA test reveals remarkable insights into the lineage of my surname Perez. Contrary to its expected Spanish Christian roots, it emerges that the name bears Sephardic Jewish origins. Historically linked to the Jewish Golden Age in Spain, the Perez name has undergone cultural transformation resulting from Jewish dispersal in the late 15th century.
My DNA testing completed by iGENEA unveiled fascinating discoveries about my lineage, profoundly connecting me with my ancestral roots. Predominantly, the insights about the origins and history of my surname, Perez, bore significance that I was previously unaware of. Perez, surprisingly, has Sephardic Jewish origins, dispelling my prior belief of its sole Spanish Christian descent. The results show that the Perez lineage traverses through a broad spectrum of cultures, histories, and geographical distributions.
This historically rich surname 'Perez' finds its earliest roots in Spain during the period of the Jewish Golden Age, stretching far beyond the medieval period. It's striking how it was my Jewish ancestors who initially bore this surname. Subsequently, with the Jewish expulsion in the late 15th century, the Perez family scattered across various locations in Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East, infusing interesting cultural connotations into the familial name.
Perez is, indeed, a patronymic surname derived from the Hebrew name 'Peretz,' appearing in the Old Testament and signifying 'breached' or 'to burst forth.' Tracing this connotation to the Biblical story of Tamar and Judah's sons, where the child Perez came out before his twin, this metaphorically signifies a family known for spearheading or leading. I feel a sense of pride upon learning of this compelling historical symbolism.
Moreover, the Perez surname has been integral to the Sephardic cultural identity, marking a point of pride with its high social status during the Jewish Golden Age in Spain. Despite the hardships and adversities faced, the community has retained and cherished this name. Thus, Perez is not just family. It is a cultural and historical symbol, acknowledging our resilient ancestors.
Examining my DNA results and the journey of Perez across varied cultures and centuries has been enlightening. It forms a unique tapestry interwoven with Jewish, Spanish, and global threads, extending horizontally and vertically throughout history. This newfound understanding further fuels my interest in genealogical explorations and strengthens my bond with this powerful name—Perez.
J. Perez