Raphael is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "rapha" which means "to heal". The name Raphael has been used throughout history and has several significant historical figures associated with it.
One of the most famous Raphaels was the Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance period, Rafael Sanzio. Born in 1483 in Urbino, Italy, he became one of the most influential artists of his time. His work includes renowned paintings such as "The School of Athens" and "The Transfiguration". He was also known for his architectural designs and his contributions to the art of fresco.
Another notable Raphael was the archangel Raphael, who appears in the deuterocanonical Book of Tobit in the Old Testament. According to the story, Raphael accompanied Tobias on a journey and helped him marry Sarah by binding Satan with a fetter. In the New Testament, Raphael is mentioned as one of the seven archangels.
In literature, Raphael is also the name of the main character in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde. The character is known for his beauty and charm, but ultimately meets a tragic end.
Throughout history, Raphael has been associated with various forms of artistic expression, from painting to literature, and has inspired many people with its meaning of healing and restoration. Today, it remains a popular choice for parents looking for a name that combines tradition with a touch of elegance.
The name Raphael experienced a significant increase in popularity over time, with a total of 22,685 births recorded between 1882 and 2023. While it started off slowly, with fewer than 10 births per year until the late 1960s, it began to gain traction in the early 1970s, reaching triple digits consistently from 1974 onwards. The name's peak popularity was reached recently, with over 680 births recorded in both 2022 and 2023.