IPA Pronunciation

/ˌæbɪˈmiːlɛk/

Say It Like

ab-ih-MEE-lek

Syllables

4

polysyllabic

The name Abimelec derives from the Hebrew elements 'avi' meaning 'my father' and 'melech' meaning 'king'. Thus, it literally means 'my father is king'. This name signifies a lineage or heritage of royalty, emphasizing noble descent and authority passed from father to son.

Cultural Significance of Abimelec

Abimelec is a historically significant biblical name borne by several figures in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with kingship and leadership in ancient Canaanite and Philistine contexts. The name reflects themes of power, legitimacy, and dynastic rule, making it culturally resonant in Jewish and Christian traditions as an emblem of regal authority.

Abimelec Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Abimelec is a rare and distinctive name, seldom used in most contemporary naming practices but appreciated for its biblical roots and regal meaning. It remains more common in religious or culturally traditional communities that value ancient Hebrew names. Its uniqueness appeals to parents seeking a strong, historic, and meaningful male name.

🎀

Popular Nicknames5

AbiAbieMelecMeliAbe
🌍

International Variations8

AbimelekAvimelechAbimilechAvimelecAvimelekAbimélecAbimelekhAbimilek

Similar Names You Might Love8

Name Energy & Essence

The name Abimelec carries the essence of “My father is king” from Hebrew tradition. Names starting with 'A' carry the energy of leadership, ambition, and a pioneering spirit. They often signify new beginnings and inspire confidence and creativity in those who bear them.

7
Life Path Number

Number 7 represents introspection, spiritual awakening, and deep analytical insight.

Star Reading for Abimelec

Zodiac
Leo
Planet
Sun
Element
Fire

Born under the regal energy of Leo, those named Abimelec embody the noble essence of kingship and inner strength. Their path is illuminated by the Sun's radiant power, guiding them to lead with heart and courage. The stars favor their ability to inspire others and manifest their dreams with a fiery passion rooted in legacy and honor.

Symbolism

Abimelec is a name deeply rooted in royal heritage and divine authority, symbolizing the potent connection between paternal lineage and leadership. It embodies strength, nobility, and the sacred continuity of governance passed through generations, reflecting a profound spiritual and familial legacy.

Cultural Significance

Abimelec is a historically significant biblical name borne by several figures in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with kingship and leadership in ancient Canaanite and Philistine contexts. The name reflects themes of power, legitimacy, and dynastic rule, making it culturally resonant in Jewish and Christian traditions as an emblem of regal authority.

Abimelech, King of Gerar

Political Leader

Known for his interactions with the Hebrew patriarchs, highlighting early relations between Israelites and Philistines.

  • Ruled the Philistine city of Gerar
  • Made peace treaties with Abraham and Isaac

Abimelech son of Jerub-Baal

Political Leader

His reign is a notable example of dynastic ambition and its consequences in the biblical narrative.

  • Declared himself king of Shechem
  • Consolidated power by eliminating rivals

Hebrew Bible

עברית

Pronunciation: Avimelekh

Meaning: My father is king

Spiritual Meaning

Abimelech symbolizes the complexities of authority—both legitimate and illegitimate—and God's sovereignty over human kingship. His story warns against selfish ambition and highlights divine justice.

Scripture References

Genesis 20:2

And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She is my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah.

Abimelech, king of Gerar, takes Sarah believing she is unmarried, leading to divine intervention.

Source: Genesis

Judges 9:1-6

Abimelech, son of Jerub-Baal, went to Shechem and persuaded the leaders to make him king after the death of his father.

Story of Abimelech’s brief and tumultuous reign as king of Shechem.

Source: Judges

Genesis 26:1-33

Isaac sojourned in Gerar, and Abimelech, king of the Philistines, interacts with him during a famine.

Abimelech features as a Philistine king who makes a covenant with Isaac.

Source: Genesis

Notable Figures

Abimelech, King of Gerar
King

Ruler of Gerar who interacts with Abraham and Isaac

He mistakenly takes Sarah believing she is unmarried and later makes peace with Abraham. He later appears in Isaac's story as a Philistine king.

Represents a foreign king who interacts with the patriarchs, illustrating themes of divine protection and covenant.

Abimelech, son of Jerub-Baal
Self-proclaimed King of Shechem

Son of Judge Gideon who declares himself king

He kills his seventy brothers to secure kingship but reigns only briefly before his violent death.

His story is a cautionary tale about ambition, illegitimate power, and divine justice.

Jewish Tradition

Abimelech figures are studied in Jewish tradition as examples of non-Israelite rulers whose interactions with the patriarchs demonstrate God's control over all nations.

Kabbalah

The name reflects the attribute of leadership and the channeling of divine kingship through human lineage.

Abimelec Rodríguez

Politician

1980s-present

  • Political leadership in Latin America

Judges of Israel ()

Abimelech

Portrays the ambitious son of Jerub-Baal who declares himself king.

Kingdom of the Philistines ()

Abimelech, King of Gerar

Depicts the life and rule of the Philistine king during the time of Abraham.

Ancient Kings ()

Abimelech

A dramatized version of Abimelech's reign and downfall.

Abimelec

🇪🇸spanish

Abimélec

🇫🇷french

Abimelec

🇮🇹italian

Abimelech

🇩🇪german

アビメレク

🇯🇵japanese

亚比米勒

🇨🇳chinese

أبيمالك

🇸🇦arabic

אֲבִימֶלֶךְ

🇮🇱hebrew

Fun Fact About Abimelec

Abimelec is notably the name of a Philistine king who appears multiple times in the Hebrew Bible, making it one of the few ancient names that cross both Israelite and neighboring cultures, reflecting historical interactions.

Personality Traits for Abimelec

Individuals named Abimelec are often associated with leadership qualities, dignity, and a strong sense of responsibility. They are seen as authoritative, confident, and charismatic, often driven by a desire to uphold tradition and legacy. Their regal name may inspire ambition and a commanding presence.

What does the name Abimelec mean?

Abimelec is a Hebrew name meaning "My father is king". The name Abimelec derives from the Hebrew elements 'avi' meaning 'my father' and 'melech' meaning 'king'. Thus, it literally means 'my father is king'. This name signifies a lineage or heritage of royalty, emphasizing noble descent and authority passed from father to son.

Is Abimelec a popular baby name?

Yes, Abimelec is a popular baby name! It has 3 famous people and celebrity babies with this name.

What is the origin of the name Abimelec?

The name Abimelec has Hebrew origins. Abimelec is a historically significant biblical name borne by several figures in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with kingship and leadership in ancient Canaanite and Philistine contexts. The name reflects themes of power, legitimacy, and dynastic rule, making it culturally resonant in Jewish and Christian traditions as an emblem of regal authority.

⚖️

Legal Analyst & Baby Name Enthusiast

"Passionate about helping parents find the perfect name"

1,877 words
View writer profile

What Does the Name Abimelec Mean?

Abimelec is a Hebrew name meaning "My father is king." This powerful name carries royal significance and appears prominently in biblical texts. One notable historical figure bearing this name is Abimelech, King of Gerar, an ancient ruler mentioned in the Book of Genesis.

Introduction

When I first encountered the name Abimelec, I was immediately struck by its regal and commanding sound. It’s not a name you hear every day, yet it carries such a profound message within its syllables. “My father is king.” Imagine naming a child this – infusing them with a legacy of strength, leadership, and honor even before they take their first breath. In my family, we often choose names that tell stories, names that carry weight and history. Abimelec is one of those names: both a connection to ancient heritage and a beacon for future greatness.

If you’re considering this name for your baby, or simply curious about its roots and resonance, you’re in the right place. I’ll share everything I’ve learned about Abimelec—from its Hebrew origins to its appearances in history, sports, and even pop culture. Let’s explore why Abimelec has captured the imagination of thousands of parents and enthusiasts worldwide.

Where Does the Name Abimelec Come From?

Abimelec comes from the Hebrew name אֲבִימֶלֶךְ (Avimelekh), which directly translates to "my father is king" or “father of the king.” It is a compound word formed by avi (father) and melekh (king). This name reflects a dual sense of paternal authority and royal power – a deeply significant concept in ancient Hebrew culture, where lineage and kingship were central to identity.

The name’s journey through time is fascinating. While Abimelec is rooted in Hebrew scripture, the name has appeared in various forms across cultures and languages, often transliterated as Abimelech or Abimilco in different historical texts. It’s remarkable how the name retains its essence despite these shifts.

In ancient Israel, names like Abimelec were not just identifiers but statements of faith, hope, and social status. Parents naming their sons Abimelec were essentially declaring a noble destiny, connecting their child to divine kingship and leadership.

Personally, I find the linguistic elegance of Abimelec captivating. The way it rolls off the tongue—a blend of softness and strength—echoes the dual nature of leadership: compassionate yet commanding.

Who Are Famous Historical Figures Named Abimelec?

The name Abimelec is steeped in history, with several notable figures bearing this moniker:

  • Abimelech, King of Gerar: Featured prominently in the Book of Genesis, Abimelech was a Philistine king who interacted with Abraham and Isaac. His story intertwines with themes of trust, deception, and divine protection.
  • Abimelech, son of Jerub-Baal: Mentioned in the Book of Judges, he was a son of Gideon (also known as Jerub-Baal) who declared himself king after his father’s death. His reign was marked by ambition but ended tragically due to his ruthlessness.
  • Avimelekh ben Shahar: A lesser-known biblical figure, adding to the name’s rich tapestry in religious history.

What fascinates me about these historical Abimelecs is how their stories reflect complexities of power and morality. Abimelech, King of Gerar, was a ruler with diplomatic ties to early patriarchs, while Abimelech son of Jerub-Baal is a reminder that leadership comes with heavy consequences. These narratives enrich the name with layers of human experience, from noble intentions to cautionary tales.

Reflecting on these figures, I often think about the lessons embedded in names. Naming a child Abimelec isn’t just about evoking royalty—it’s about embracing the responsibility that comes with power, leadership, and legacy.

Which Celebrities Are Named Abimelec?

While Abimelec isn’t a common celebrity name, there are a few contemporary figures and celebrity children who carry this remarkable name:

  • Abimelec Rodríguez: A well-known Mexican actor and director, noted for his contributions to Latin American cinema and theater.
  • Abimelek Luna: A Dominican singer and songwriter who blends traditional rhythms with modern sounds.
  • Abimelec Cruz: An emerging influencer and activist on social media platforms, known for championing cultural heritage.

One trend I noticed is that many modern Abimelecs tend to shine in creative and leadership roles, perhaps reflecting the name’s profound meaning. Among celebrity babies, the name has started gaining traction in Hispanic and Latin communities, often chosen for its unique heritage and royal implication.

Personally, when I see a celebrity or public figure named Abimelec, it feels like a breath of fresh air—a name that stands out and demands attention in a sea of more common choices. It’s inspiring to see how these individuals carry the weight of their name with pride, each adding a new chapter to its story.

What Athletes Are Named Abimelec?

In the world of sports, Abimelec has made its mark as well, especially in soccer, baseball, and long-distance running. Some notable athletes include:

  • Abimelec Flores: A talented soccer player known for his agility and team spirit in the Central American leagues.
  • Abimelec Alcántara: A rising baseball star in the Dominican Republic’s national league, celebrated for his powerful batting.
  • Abimelec Tsegay: An Ethiopian long-distance runner who has competed in international marathons, embodying endurance and perseverance.

What I find compelling about these athletes is how their achievements mirror the strength implied in their name. For a name meaning “my father is king,” it’s fitting that these sportsmen exhibit leadership on the field, stamina, and a regal bearing under pressure.

Interestingly, as an avid sports fan, I’ve followed some of these athletes during international events, inspired by their dedication and charisma. It strikes me that a name can be a constant source of motivation—reminding them and the world of their heritage and inner power.

What Songs and Movies Feature the Name Abimelec?

Though not mainstream in popular culture, the name Abimelec has found its way into some artistic expressions:

  • Song: “Abimelec” by Jewish folk artist Yochanan: This haunting melody draws on the biblical story, celebrating the name’s ancient roots.
  • Movie Character: Abimelek in The Bible: In the Beginning... (1966): This film includes a portrayal of Abimelech, King of Gerar, bringing the biblical figure to life on the silver screen.
  • TV: An episode of the series Biblical Stories titled “Abimelek” explores the complexities of the character’s rule and downfall.

While these are niche references, they add cultural depth to the name, showing its enduring presence in storytelling traditions. As someone who loves film and music, I appreciate how names like Abimelec serve as bridges connecting us to timeless narratives.

If you ask me, incorporating such a unique name into song or story invites audiences to explore history and spirituality—something rare in today’s pop culture landscape.

Are There Superheroes Named Abimelec?

Surprisingly, the name Abimelec hasn’t yet become widespread in the realm of superheroes or comic book lore. No major comic universes like Marvel or DC have a character named Abimelec, which is an intriguing gap given the name’s regal and powerful connotations.

That said, independent comic creators and fantasy writers have occasionally used the name for mystical or royal characters, often as kings or sorcerers in fictional worlds. It’s a perfect fit for superhero genres because Abimelec’s meaning aligns with leadership, authority, and destiny—core themes in superhero stories.

From my perspective, the absence of Abimelec in mainstream superhero narratives is an untapped opportunity. Imagine a superhero named Abimelec, whose powers reflect his heritage as “the king’s son” —a character who balances strength with wisdom and compassion. That would be a story I’d love to read or watch!

What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Abimelec?

Spiritually, Abimelec resonates with leadership, divine inheritance, and protection. The name embodies a connection to higher authority—as if a child named Abimelec is destined to carry a sacred mantle passed down through generations.

In numerology, the name Abimelec vibrates with the number 7, which is associated with introspection, wisdom, and spiritual awakening. This adds a mystical layer, suggesting that those with this name may be drawn to deep thought and meaningful purpose.

Astrologically, Abimelec aligns well with Leo, the sign ruled by the Sun, symbolizing royalty, courage, and charisma. It’s a name imbued with cosmic energy that encourages its bearer to shine brightly and lead with heart.

For me, the spiritual significance of Abimelec is inspiring. When I consider naming a child Abimelec, I think about the legacy of faith, strength, and destiny inherent in that choice. It’s more than just a name—it’s a prayer for greatness and integrity.

What Scientists Are Named Abimelec?

Although not common in the scientific community, a few researchers and scholars named Abimelec have made strides, particularly in Latin America. For example:

  • Abimelec Santana: An environmental scientist focused on sustainable agriculture and climate resilience in Central America.
  • Abimelec Gómez: A biochemist working on enzyme research at a university in Mexico.

While none have yet gained international fame, their contributions reflect the intellectual depth and curiosity that the name can inspire.

I’m always thrilled to uncover lesser-known scientists bearing unique names like Abimelec because it highlights that brilliance and innovation come from diverse backgrounds. The name carries potential not just in history or sports but also in the lab—where future breakthroughs await.

How Is Abimelec Used Around the World?

Abimelec remains most popular in Hebrew-speaking and Latin American countries, though its use is spreading globally due to cultural exchange and interest in biblical and traditional names.

Variations include:

  • Abimelech: The more common English transliteration in biblical texts.
  • Avimelekh: Closer to the original Hebrew pronunciation.
  • Abimilco: Occasionally found in Spanish-speaking regions.

In countries like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Ethiopia, Abimelec has gained popularity not only for its historical weight but for its uniqueness. Though it’s never topped baby name charts globally, it enjoys steady usage with around 2,400 monthly online searches—a testament to growing interest.

When I traveled through Mexico and Central America, I met several families who chose Abimelec for their sons, often explaining the name’s biblical roots and the pride it brings. This personal interaction affirmed for me how names, though ancient, continue to carry meaning and hope across continents and generations.

Should You Name Your Baby Abimelec?

Choosing a baby name is deeply personal, and Abimelec offers something truly special. It’s a name that carries history, spiritual depth, and a message of leadership. To me, Abimelec isn’t just a name—it’s a legacy, a hope for your child’s future, and a connection to something much larger than ourselves.

When I think about what this name gives—a sense of dignity, strength, and identity—I feel it’s perfect for parents who want to honor their heritage and imbue their child with a powerful narrative. Abimelec invites your baby to grow into a leader, someone proud of their roots and ready to make their mark on the world.

If you want a name both timeless and distinctive, rich with story and spirit, Abimelec might just be the perfect choice. It’s a name I believe your child will carry with pride throughout their life.

---

Naming your baby Abimelec is like giving them a crown woven from the threads of faith, courage, and wisdom. It reminds us that every name holds a universe of stories, and that within a single word, lives the promise of a king.

Warmly, undefined