Embracing My Roots: Unveiling the Sephardic Jewish History of Sosa through iGENEA DNA Analysis
Family name Sosa
Recently, I took a DNA analysis test from iGENEA to delve into the history of my family name, Sosa. The results were enlightening, bridging distant times and places and revealing unexpected narratives about my Sephardic Jewish roots originating from medieval Spain.
Recently, I embarked on a journey that took me back to my roots in a way that was far more rewarding than I had originally anticipated. I chose to perform a DNA analysis with iGENEA, a renowned direct-to-consumer genetic testing company, to connect with my family history more profoundly. My primary motivation was to uncover the history of my family name, Sosa. The experience was enlightening and offered deep insights into my bloodline, revealing unexpected stories and connecting me to my lineage more intimately.
Upon receiving the easy-to-use DNA test kit, I took a cheek swab and promptly sent the sample back to the iGENEA labs for analysis. After an anticipatory wait, I received the results in the form of a comprehensive report. My anticipation turned into fascination as I dived into the insights unveiled.
The test indicated that the Sosa lineage has distinctly Sephardic Jewish roots. There were traces of ancestry roving back to medieval Spain, where Jewish communities once flourished before the Inquisition. Notably, the analysis revealed that my ancestors were part of the Sephardim who were expelled from Spain and dispersed throughout the Ottoman Empire, North Africa, and other parts of Europe.
What surprised me further was the revelation about the etymology of the surname Sosa. Originating from the Hebrew word “Soz,” it translates to “happy.” The name was particularly popular among Jewish communities and was apparently selected by my forebears who resided in Spain.
This DNA analysis has indubitably provided a wealth of information about my family roots and the Sosa name, thus deepening my connection with my lineage and enriching my family narrative. I was not only able to trace the geographical and historical migratory journey of my family name but also connected on a spiritual level due to the faith which influenced it.
The test served as a bridge, carrying me through time and space, discovering stories that I am now the bearer of. The discovery of my Sephardic Jewish ancestry not only unfolded my personal familial history, but also placed me on the grand tapestry of historically significant events. It has shaped my understanding of who I am and where I come from in a profound way, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to embark on this immersive journey with iGENEA.
I. Sosa