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Origin and meaning of the name Uriel

What is the origin of the name Uriel?

Uriël is a Hebrew name that means "God is my light" or "The Lord is my light." It appears several times in the Old Testament, most notably as the name of an angel who appeared to Daniel (Daniel 8:15-16, 9:21). The name Uriël has been used in various forms in different languages and cultures over time.

Learn more about the origin of the name Uriel

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Uriel

Uriel is a Hebrew name, derived from the word "Uri" which means "God is my light," and "El" meaning God. This name is often associated with an archangel mentioned in various religious texts including the Book of Enoch and the apocryphal Book of Tobit in the Old Testament. In these texts, Uriel is depicted as a guide and protector to humanity. The name has been used in various forms across different cultures and languages over time, reflecting its enduring significance. It gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Renaissance period.

Character traits associated with the name Uriel

Uriel is traditionally known as an archangel in various religious texts, and characteristics often attributed to this name reflect these divine associations. In human terms, individuals named Uriel may be perceived as wise, knowledgeable, and spiritually-minded due to the archangel's role as a guide and messenger of God. They might also exhibit traits such as honesty, integrity, and a strong sense of justice, given Uriel's role in protecting humanity and battling against evil forces. Moreover, those named Uriel may be seen as intelligent and analytical, possessing a deep understanding of complex concepts and the ability to provide insightful advice. Lastly, they might exhibit leadership qualities, taking on roles that require guidance or protection of others.

Popularity of the name Uriel

Uriel is a Hebrew name, originating from the ancient language and meaning "God is my light." It has been traditionally used as a male given name, particularly among Jewish communities and some Christian denominations. In terms of popularity, Uriel has experienced varying levels of usage in different countries and regions over the years. In the United States, for instance, its popularity peaked around the late 19th century but has since declined, although it remains a relatively uncommon name. In contrast, in Israel, Uriel is more frequently used and ranks among the top 200 most popular boys' names, as per data from the Central Bureau of Statistics. The name Uriel has a certain timeless quality and carries an air of wisdom and light, making it appealing to some parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children.

Famous people with the name Uriel

Uriel, a biblical figure, is one of the seven archangels in Jewish and Christian mythology. He is considered an angel of repentance, prayer, and justice. In Christianity, Uriel is associated with the apocalyptic vision of Enoch, where he guides the prophet on a heavenly journey. Besides this religious context, there are several notable individuals named Uriel throughout history. Uriel Acosta (1585-1640) was a Portuguese Marrano philosopher and mystic. He is remembered for his work "Exile of Uriel Acosta," which discusses the themes of exile, conversion, and Jewish identity. In contemporary times, Uriel Orlow (born 1973) is a Swiss-Polish artist known for his multimedia installations that explore historical and political landscapes. Lastly, Uriel Echevarria (1948-2003), a Cuban poet, essayist, and literary critic, was a prominent figure in the Nueva Ola poetry movement of 1960s Cuba. His works often addressed issues related to identity, politics, and art.

Variations of the name Uriel

Uriell, Urial, Oriel, and Oriel are some variations of the given name Uriel. Uriel is a Hebrew name that means "God is my light" or "fire of God". The name Uriell is an English variation that originated as a diminutive form of Uriel. Urial is a Spanish variation, while Oriel and Oriel are Welsh forms derived from the Irish and Hebrew names respectively. These variations retain the original meaning of the name but may have distinct pronunciations and regional usages.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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