Last Name Benazar: origin, history, and heritage

What is the origin of the last name Benazar?

The last name Benazar likely has Sephardic Jewish origins. It is a variation of the name Ben-Zar, which means "son of Zar" in Hebrew. The name likely originated in Spain or Portugal during the time of the Spanish Inquisition when many Sephardic Jews were forced to convert to Christianity or flee the country. Those who kept their Jewish identity may have adopted surnames like Benazar to disguise their heritage. Today, the name may be found in Sephardic Jewish communities around the world.