Hadar is a Hebrew name of unknown origin and uncertain meaning. It appears in the Tanakh, the traditional Jewish Bible, where it is used as both a masculine and feminine given name. In some sources, Hadar is believed to mean "majesty" or "splendor," but these interpretations are not universally accepted.
The name Hadar can be found throughout Jewish history and literature. It was borne by several notable figures in the Tanakh, including King David's son (2 Samuel 3:3) and a descendant of Aaron through his son Ithamar (1 Chronicles 6:5). Additionally, the Book of Nehemiah mentions an individual named "Hadar" who assisted Ezra in reestablishing Jewish religious practices after the Babylonian exile (Nehemiah 3:18).
In modern times, Hadar continues to be used as a given name among Jewish communities around the world. Its popularity may have been influenced by its appearance in various literary works, such as the famous Yiddish novel "Tevye der Milchiker" by Sholem Aleichem, where one of the main characters is named Hadassah (also known as "Hadas") – a name derived from the same Hebrew root as Hadar.
Despite its uncertain origin and meaning, the name Hadar carries a rich history and cultural significance within Judaism. It has been passed down through generations and continues to be chosen by parents for their children today.
The name Hadar has seen a fluctuating number of births annually over the past three decades, with a total of 203 babies named Hadar born between 1990 and 2022. The peak years for births were 2006 with 17 babies, closely followed by 2016 with 11 births. However, most years saw fewer than ten births, indicating that while the name has been used consistently over time, it is not among the most popular choices.