Ismael

iz-ma-el
Meaning: God will hear
Gender
Boy
Origin
Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish
Popularity Rank
#244 (boys)
#454 (overall)

Popularity Summary

Ismael has seen varying levels of popularity, often favored in Hispanic and Muslim communities, and is gaining recognition in broader contexts.

Why Parents Choose Ismael

Parents may choose the name Ismael for its rich historical and cultural significance, its strong biblical ties, and its unique yet classic sound.

History & Cultural Significance

The name Ismael has deep biblical roots, originating from the Hebrew name Yishma'el, which appears in the Old Testament. It has been used across various cultures and languages, maintaining its biblical significance while also adapting in pronunciation and spelling.

Ismael is a significant figure in both Jewish and Islamic traditions, known as the son of Abraham and Hagar, representing themes of faith and perseverance.

Notable People Named Ismael

  • Ismael Beah - Sierra Leonean author and human rights activist
  • Ismael H. B. - Influential figure in Arabic literature
  • Ismail Kadare - Renowned Albanian novelist

Name Variations

Ishmael Ismaƫl Ismail

Related Names

Abraham Isaac Hagar

Similar Sounding Names

Ezekiel Emmanuel Nathaniel

Names with Similar Feel

Gabriel Raphael Daniel

Sibling Name Ideas

Isaac Samuel Elijah

Pop Culture References

  • Ismael in 'Moby Dick' - the famous novel by Herman Melville
  • Ismael in various films and television shows depicting biblical stories