Jael is a unique and captivating feminine given name that has its origins in the Hebrew language. It is derived from the Hebrew word "iyal," which means "mountain goat." The name Jael is also found in the Bible, where it is the name of a Kenite woman who played a significant role in the story of Sisera and Deborah.
In the Book of Judges, Jael welcomes Sisera, a fleeing Canaanite general, into her tent. She offers him milk to drink, which makes him fall asleep. While he sleeps, she drives a tent peg through his temple, killing him. This act helps to defeat the Canaanites and establishes Deborah's leadership over Israel.
The name Jael has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and biblical significance. It is often associated with strength, courage, and resourcefulness, reflecting the actions of the biblical Jael. Despite its origins and history, however, it remains a relatively rare name, adding to its allure for those who choose to bear it.
In terms of its usage and popularity, Jael has been more commonly used as a given name in the United States since the late 20th century. According to data from the Social Security Administration, the highest point of popularity for the name Jael was in 1987, when it ranked at number 564 out of all female names that year. Since then, its usage has declined somewhat but remains within the top 1,000 most popular names for girls each year.
Overall, the name Jael is an intriguing choice with a rich historical background and biblical significance. Its unique origin and uncommon usage make it a distinctive option for parents seeking a name that stands out from the crowd.
Jael's popularity as a name experienced notable fluctuations over the years, with an initial spike in 1978 (17 births) and again in 2007 (175 births). The name's usage peaked most recently in 2012 with 206 births. Despite some volatility, Jael has seen a consistent rise in popularity since the late 1990s, indicating its status as an established choice among parents today.