Israel is a Hebrew name that translates to "he who struggles with God." Its origins can be traced back to the Hebrew Bible, where it is mentioned as the name given by God to Jacob after he wrestled with an angel. The name Israel carries significant historical and cultural importance in Judaism and Christianity.
In the Hebrew Bible, Jacob is renamed Israel following his wrestling match with an angel, during which he asks for a blessing. Instead of granting him a blessing directly, the angel gives him a new name - Israel. This event is recorded in Genesis 32:28-29: "And He said, 'Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and men, and have prevailed.'" The name Israel thus signifies the struggle and perseverance of Jacob.
Throughout history, the name Israel has been closely associated with the ancient Kingdom of Israel and its people. The modern state of Israel is named after this ancient kingdom, reflecting the deep connection between the Jewish people and their historical and religious heritage.
In terms of its usage as a given name, Israel has been popular among Jews throughout history but gained wider popularity in recent decades among non-Jewish families as well. It is often chosen for its strong biblical association and historical significance.
Overall, the name Israel carries a rich history and cultural importance that spans centuries and civilizations. Its origin story in the Hebrew Bible provides insight into its profound meaning, while its usage throughout history reflects the enduring legacy of the ancient Kingdom of Israel and its people.
The given statistics show the number of babies named Israel born each year in the United States from 1880 to 2023. Over this period of 143 years, a total of 68,896 babies were named Israel.
The trend line for the name Israel shows periods of fluctuating popularity. From 1880 to around 1957, the number of babies named Israel remained relatively low, with an average of fewer than 20 births per year during this period. However, starting in 1958, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name Israel, with over 200 babies being named Israel each year from that point forward.
The peak years for the name Israel were between 1964 and 2007, during which time the number of births remained consistently high. The highest single year was 1977, with 630 babies named Israel. After 2007, there was a slight decline in the popularity of the name Israel, but it remained relatively stable, with an average of around 1500-1600 births per year from 2008 to 2023.
Overall, the statistics show that while the name Israel has not always been popular in the United States, there have been periods where it was quite common. Its popularity has waxed and waned over time, but it remains a distinctive and unique name choice for parents today.