All about the name

Yael

Male

« Yael is a Hebrew feminine given name derived from the word "ayil," meaning ibex, symbolizing strength, agility, and resilience. It appears in the Book of Judges, where Yael played a crucial role in the Israelites' rebellion against King Jabin's oppressive rule by killing Sisera, his commander. Today, Yael is a popular choice among Jewish families seeking a meaningful name for their daughters due to its rich history and profound symbolic significance. »

#776 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Yael is a unique and beautiful Hebrew feminine given name with a rich history and profound meaning. Derived from the Hebrew word "ayil," which means "ibex," or wild goat, Yael carries the symbolic significance of strength, agility, and resilience. The name Yael first appears in the Book of Judges in the Old Testament of the Bible. In this historical account, Yael plays a crucial role during a critical period of Israelite history. She was the wife of Heber the Kenite, who was allied with King Jabin of Hazor. However, Yael secretly sympathized with the Israelites and played a pivotal part in their rebellion against King Jabin's oppressive rule. When Sisera, the commander of King Jabin's army, fled from the battlefield after being defeated by the Israelites, he sought refuge at Heber's tent, assuming it would be safe due to their alliance. Yael, seizing this opportunity, invited Sisera into her tent and offered him refreshments while she waited for him to fall asleep. Once he was unconscious, Yael took a peg and hammer and drove the peg through Sisera's temples, killing him instantly. Yael's actions were instrumental in bringing about the downfall of King Jabin's tyranny and ultimately led to the Israelites' liberation from his oppressive rule. Her story serves as an inspiring tale of courage, loyalty, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Today, Yael continues to be a popular choice among Jewish families seeking a meaningful and powerful name for their daughters. Its unique sound and profound history make it a memorable and significant option for parents who wish to honor their daughter with a name that carries deep cultural significance and strong symbolic meaning.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Yael since 1880

Total births
4,582
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
328 births
in 2023
328
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+37%
vs previous 5 years