Israel

What does the baby name Israel mean? Learn about what Israel means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Israel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Israel: I-S-R-A-E-L, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Israel: IZ-ree-əl; IS rah el
Meaning of Israel: Contender with god, republic in sw asia, wrestled with god, a person who struggles with god, prince of god, struggles with god.
Origin of Israel: The name 'Israel' has its origins in the Hebrew language. It is derived from the Hebrew word Yisra'el, which means 'God contends' or 'one who struggles with God'. The name holds significant religious and historical importance in Jewish culture.; American Names; Biblical Names; Geo Names; Hebrew Names; Jewish Names; Place Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Israel: Yisrael
Popularity of Israel: The popularity of the name 'Israel' has varied over time. In the early 20th century, it was a relatively uncommon name. However, with the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948, the name gained popularity among Jewish families as a way to express their connection to their heritage and the nation.; Israel currently has 200 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Bruce is slightly more popular than Israel.

Etymology of Israel

The name 'Israel' is composed of two elements in Hebrew. The first part, 'Yisra', is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word 'sarah', which means 'to contend' or 'to struggle'. The second part, 'el', is a reference to God. Combined, the name can be interpreted as 'one who struggles with God' or 'God contends.'

Cultural Significance of Israel

In Jewish culture, the name 'Israel' holds immense cultural and religious significance. It is associated with the biblical figure Jacob, who was given the name 'Israel' after wrestling with an angel. Jacob's descendants became known as the Israelites, and the name became synonymous with the Jewish people.

The name 'Israel' represents a connection to Jewish heritage, faith, and the land of Israel. It symbolizes the struggles and triumphs of the Jewish people throughout history and their enduring relationship with God.