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Christian Name Meaning & Origin Guide

Ishmael

God hears

Pronunciation: ISH-may-el (/ɪʃˈmeɪ.əl/)

Boy Name Biblical origin Popularity 65
Meaning
God hears
Origin
Biblical
Lucky Number
9
Lucky Day
Monday
Lucky Stone
Carnelian
Life Path
3
Popularity Score
65
Language
English, Hebrew, Greek, Latin
Lucky Colors: OrangeBrown

What does Ishmael mean?

In the Old Testament, Ishmael is the eldest son of Abraham and Hagar. God promises to make him and his mother a great nation, despite their difficult circumstances. Ishmael's name comes from the Hebrew word 'ish', meaning 'man', and 'mael', meaning 'God hears'.

Ishmael in other languages & scripts

Hebrew
אישםאל
אשלאויג אסיהל אסגלי ינואט
Greek
Θχμαελ
το ππυποσ ητπυ τελουκος τεσ ερπύ
Latin
Ishmael
nomen significans 'audiente Deus' vel 'Deus audiens'
English
Ishmael
name meaning 'God hears' or 'God listens'

How to pronounce Ishmael

English pronunciation
ISH-may-el
Biblical pronunciation
אשלויג (אסיהל אסגלי ינואט)
IPA notation
/ɪʃˈmeɪ.əl/

Numerology & personality

People with a life path number 3 are creative, artistic, and social.

Associated Traits
FaithfulCourageousL = Loyal

Spiritual & cultural context

Symbolizes God's attentiveness and faithfulness to hear and respond to the prayers of his people.

The name Ishmael has historical and cultural significance in the Jewish and Muslim traditions. In both faiths, Ishmael is recognized as the ancestor of the Arabs. He is revered in Islamic tradition, particularly in connection with the Hajj pilgrimage, and is mentioned in various hadiths and Quranic verses.

Scriptural & traditional roots

Biblical scripture: Genesis (Genesis 16:11, 17:18-20)

Popularity of Ishmael by region

Region Country Score Year
France FR 65 2024
Italy IT 70 2024
Germany DE 71 2024

Spelling variations of Ishmael

IshmaaelIshmel

Names similar to Ishmael

Frequently asked questions about Ishmael

What does Ishmael mean?
Ishmael is a Hebrew name meaning 'God hears'.
Is Ishmael a Christianity name?
Yes, Ishmael is an essential figure in the Old Testament of the Christian Bible.
How to pronounce Ishmael?
ISH-mah-el
Is Ishmael popular today?
Although not as popular as some other names, Ishmael has a dedicated following among those who appreciate its rich history and meaning.
What is the origin of Ishmael?
Ishmael is a Hebrew name that comes from the words 'ish', meaning 'man', and 'mael', meaning 'God hears'.