Jezreel is a unique and historic name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the word "Yizree'el," which means "God will sow." This name holds significant historical importance as it is mentioned in the Bible, specifically in reference to the Valley of Jezreel, located between the hills of Gilboa and Little Hermon in modern-day Israel.
The Valley of Jezreel played a crucial role in several biblical events. It was here that Absalom, the son of King David, rebelled against his father's kingdom. Additionally, it was in this valley that Gideon, a judge and warrior, fought against the Midianites with only 300 men.
The name Jezreel is not particularly common today, but it has been used throughout history. In literature, Jezreel appears as a character in Oscar Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray." Despite its rarity, Jezreel remains a distinctive and meaningful name choice for parents seeking a unique and historic moniker for their child.
In terms of pronunciation, Jezreel is typically pronounced as /ˈdʒɛzriːəl/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The name can be spelled in various ways, including Jezreel, Yizree'el, or Yezreel, but it is most commonly found in its original Hebrew form.
Overall, Jezreel is an uncommon yet significant name with a rich historical and biblical background. Parents who choose this name for their child may appreciate its unique sound, cultural significance, and strong connection to the past.
The name Jezreel has seen a varied trend in its popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 209 babies being named Jezreel between 1989 and 2023.
In the early 1990s, the name had moderate popularity, with around 5-6 births each year from 1989 to 1995. However, it started to gain traction in the late 1990s, reaching a peak of 15 births in 2005.
After this peak, the number of babies named Jezreel began to fluctuate, ranging from as low as 5 births in certain years (such as 2008 and 2013) to as high as 11 births in others (2004 and 2012). Despite these fluctuations, the name maintained a steady presence throughout the 2000s and 2010s.
More recently, the popularity of Jezreel has continued to vary. Between 2016 and 2023, there were between 5 and 10 births each year, with a total of 49 babies being named Jezreel during this period.
Overall, while Jezreel may not be one of the most popular names in the United States, it has maintained a consistent presence throughout the years, with many families choosing to pass down this unique name to their children.