Barak is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the biblical figure Barak son of Abinoam, who was a military commander and judge in ancient Israel. The name Barak means "lightning" or "flash," reflecting the swiftness and power of this natural phenomenon.
In the Hebrew Bible, Barak is best known for his role as a military leader under the guidance of the prophetess Deborah during the time of the judges. Together, they led the Israelites to victory against the Canaanite army at Mount Tabor in what is now northern Israel.
The name Barak has been used throughout Jewish history and can be found among various cultures that have adopted Hebrew names, such as Christians and Muslims. Today, Barak remains a popular choice for parents seeking a strong and meaningful name for their children.
In terms of its sound and appearance, the name Barak is simple yet distinctive. It consists of just three letters in the Hebrew alphabet (bet, resh, and kof), which can be written as בָּרֶךְ when transliterated into Latin characters. This concise spelling contributes to the name's memorability and ease of pronunciation.
Overall, Barak is an ancient and powerful name with a rich history that continues to resonate with parents today seeking a meaningful moniker for their children. Its origins in biblical lore and its straightforward yet impactful meaning make it an appealing choice for those looking for a name that combines tradition with strength.
The name Barak experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the decades. The peak years were around the late 1980s to early 1990s, with a high of 27 births in 1994 and 23 in 1991. However, it dropped significantly after 2000, reaching as low as 7 births in 2013. The total number of births with the name Barak over this period was 903.