Asriel is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the words "aser" meaning "ten", and "El" meaning "God". Thus, Asriel translates to "help of God" or "ten of God". This name has a strong biblical connection as it was borne by one of the sons of Gad in the Old Testament.
The name Asriel is not particularly common, but it has been used throughout history. One notable bearer of this name is Asriel Ginsberg, an Israeli soldier who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Distinguished Service for his actions during the Six-Day War in 1967.
In literature, Asriel is also the name of a character in Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" trilogy. The author likely chose this name due to its biblical roots and unusual sound, which fits with the fantastical nature of the series.
Overall, Asriel is an uncommon yet meaningful name with strong biblical ties. Its unique sound makes it stand out, while its meaning adds depth and significance to those who bear it.
The name Asriel has been a rare but consistent choice among parents in the United States over the past few decades. From 1987 to 2023, there have been a total of 152 births with this unique name.
While it was relatively uncommon between 1987 and 2009, with only four or five births each year, Asriel started gaining more popularity in recent years. In 2015, there were suddenly 17 babies named Asriel, a significant increase from previous years. This trend continued, reaching a peak of 25 births in 2020.
Despite this recent surge in popularity, the name Asriel still remains relatively rare compared to other names. However, its consistent appearance over several decades indicates that it has been a beloved choice among parents looking for something distinctive yet meaningful for their children.
In conclusion, while not as popular as some other names, Asriel has been steadily present on the birth records in the United States since 1987. Its recent spike in popularity suggests that many parents continue to appreciate this unique name option for their children.