Ishmael

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

Ishmael - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Ishmael
I-S-H-M-A-E-L, is a 7-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Ishmael
ISH-may-əl
ISH may el
Meaning of Ishmael
God listens, god will hear, god hears, god will listen.
Origin of Ishmael
The name 'Ishmael' has its roots in ancient Semitic languages, particularly Hebrew and Arabic. In Hebrew, the name 'Ishmael' (ישמעאל) translates to 'God hears' or 'God will hear'. It is derived from the words 'ish' meaning 'man' and 'El' meaning 'God'. In Arabic, the name is pronounced as 'Ismail' and carries a similar meaning of 'God hears' or 'God listens.'

The earliest known use of the name 'Ishmael' can be traced back to the biblical narrative found in the Book of Genesis. In this ancient text, 'Ishmael' is depicted as the son of Abraham and Hagar, who was Sarah's maidservant. 'Ishmael's birth was seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to make him the father of many nations. This biblical origin gives the name 'Ishmael' a strong foundation and imbues it with significance.
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Popularity of Ishmael
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Ishmael' has seen fluctuations. In the United States, the name experienced a notable spike in usage during the 19th century. This can be attributed to the influence of Herman Melville's famous novel, 'Moby-Dick', which features a character named 'Ishmael' as the narrator. The book's publication in 1851 brought the name 'Ishmael' into the public consciousness and led to its increased popularity.
Ishmael currently has 22 likes, and is in the top 7% of liked boy's names. The name Tracey is slightly more popular than Ishmael.

Etymology of Ishmael

The etymology of the name 'Ishmael' is rooted in the ancient Semitic languages of Hebrew and Arabic. The Hebrew origin of the name, as mentioned earlier, signifies 'God hears' or 'God will hear'. In Arabic, the name Ismail is believed to have a similar meaning, reflecting the importance of prayer and communication with God in both cultures.

Cultural Significance of Ishmael

The name 'Ishmael' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In Islamic tradition, 'Ishmael' is considered a prophet and is believed to be a forefather of the Arab people. He is revered for his role in the establishment of the Kaaba in Mecca, which is one of the holiest sites in Islam. The name 'Ishmael', therefore, carries a deep religious and cultural significance within the Islamic faith.