Israel

Israel means “God contends,” symbolizing perseverance.

Israel - Meaning, Origin, Popularity, and Related Names

ISRAEL is a Hebrew name meaning “God contends” or “one who wrestles with God,” often symbolizing strength and spiritual perseverance. This page explores its meaning, origin, gender usage, popularity trends, and related names.

Gender Male
Origin Hebrew
Meaning God contends, Wrestles
Popularity Moderate

Meaning of the Name Israel

The name Israel carries the profound meaning of God contends or Wrestles with God. Rooted in the ancient biblical narrative, it signifies strength and perseverance. Often associated with individuals who exhibit resilience and determination, the name embodies a sense of divine purpose and spiritual connection.

Origin of the Name Israel

The name Israel originates from the Hebrew language and culture, bearing deep biblical roots. It comes from the personal name given to the patriarch Jacob after he wrestled with an angel in the Old Testament. This connection infuses the name with spiritual and historical significance in Judaic traditions.

Israel Name Tattoo Design Collection

watercolor splash tattoo concept where the name israel is painted in flowing brushstroke letters on a white background

Israel Watercolor Splash Name Tattoo Concept

A vivid watercolor tattoo concept where the name "israel" is painted as flowing, colorful brushstroke lettering with splashes and drips on a white background.

surrealist tattoo design where the name israel becomes abstract dreamlike letters on a white background

Israel Surrealism Name Tattoo Artwork

A surreal tattoo concept where the name "israel" dissolves into dreamlike, impossible letterforms surrounded by abstract shapes on a white background.

trash polka tattoo design with the name israel in distressed black and red stylized letters on a white background

Israel Trash Polka Name Tattoo Design

A high-contrast Trash Polka tattoo design where the name "israel" is rendered in distressed black and red stylized lettering with splashes and graphic elements on a white background.

ornate tattoo design with the name israel formed by decorative stylized lettering and flourishes on a white background

Israel AI-Original-Style Name Tattoo Concept

An ornate tattoo concept where the name "israel" becomes an intricate centerpiece of stylized lettering and flowing flourishes on a white background.

Gender Association of the Name Israel

The name Israel is traditionally male, though it has been embraced for gender-neutral usage in modern contexts. Across Israel and areas with strong biblical or Hebrew heritage, it predominantly retains a masculine connotation. Notable figures include Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, a Hawaiian musician.

Popularity of the Name Israel

Historically rich and spiritually significant, the name Israel ranks moderately on baby name charts, reflecting its enduring appeal. In regions such as the United States and Israel, it sees a steady usage, especially among communities with strong cultural or religious ties. Its popularity has experienced various fluctuations over decades.

Global Usage of the Name Israel

In countries like Mexico and Brazil, Israel often finds favor due to its resonant spiritual and cultural heritage. Its pronunciation varies slightly across languages, but its religious and historical connotations provide a consistent appeal, evoking diverse feelings across separate cultural landscapes.

Global Distribution & Gender Ratio

Usage and gender distribution of the name Israel across different countries, based on data from GenderAPI.

Mexico 50.96%
♀ Female: 0.45% ♂ Male: 99.55%
Brazil 27.07%
♀ Female: 0.8% ♂ Male: 99.2%
United States 8.47%
♀ Female: 1.59% ♂ Male: 98.41%
Spain 2.64%
♀ Female: 0.51% ♂ Male: 99.49%
Chile 1.31%
♀ Female: 0% ♂ Male: 100%

Country-specific gender and popularity analysis is supported by Gender API.

Similar Names Related with the Name Israel

  1. E

    Esau

    This name means Hairy or Rough, associated with the brother of Jacob in biblical stories.

  2. I

    Ishmael

    Meaning God will hear, it is a name notable in biblical and spiritual contexts.

Characteristic Features of People Named Israel

Resilient

Known for their enduring strength and perseverance through challenges.

Spiritual

Often deeply connected to spiritual or religious beliefs.

Determined

Characterized by a strong sense of purpose and tenacity.

Common Career Paths for People Named Israel

Leadership

Frequently found in roles that require strong leadership and decision-making skills.

Artistic Creativity

May excel in fields requiring creativity, such as music or art.

Spiritual Guidance

Often drawn to careers in theology or spiritual guidance.

Unique and Interesting Characteristics of the Name Israel

  1. Biblical Roots

    Central to a key biblical narrative, providing rich historical context.

  2. Symbolic

    Represents a struggle with divine elements, often associated with profound life themes.

  3. Cultural Resonance

    Enjoys robust usage in music and literature, with notable figures across various domains.

Famous People Named Israel

  • Israel Kamakawiwoʻole: Renowned Hawaiian musician known for his ukulele cover of "Over the Rainbow".
  • Israel Zangwill: British author known for his works on social issues.
  • Israel Adesanya: Renowned mixed martial artist and UFC champion.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Name Israel

Answers to the most common questions people ask about the name Israel.

What is the meaning of the name Israel?

The name Israel means God contends or Wrestles with God, signifying strength and perseverance.

What is the origin of the name Israel?

The name Israel originates from Hebrew culture, associated with a biblical narrative involving the patriarch Jacob.

Is Israel a male or female name?

Israel is a traditionally male name but is also embraced as gender-neutral in modern contexts.

How popular is the name Israel?

The name Israel maintains moderate popularity in regions with strong cultural or religious ties, experiencing various trends over time.

How is the name Israel used globally?

Israel is favored in countries like Mexico and Brazil for its cultural and spiritual resonance, with slight pronunciation variations.

What careers are common for people named Israel?

People named Israel often excel in leadership, creative fields, and spiritual guidance roles.

What are the characteristics of people named Israel?

Israel is associated with resilience, spirituality, and determination.

What are names similar to Israel?

Names similar to Israel include Isaiah, Isaac, and Elijah, sharing either phonetic or thematic similarities.

Who are some famous people named Israel?

Famous individuals include Israel Kamakawiwoʻole and Israel Adesanya.