Hillel the Elder
A Jewish religious leader and scholar renowned for his wisdom and foundational teachings in Jewish law and ethics.
IPA Pronunciation
หhษชl.ษl
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Hillel is a Hebrew name meaning 'praise' or 'he who praises.' It comes from the root word 'halal,' which means to shine or boast. Historically, it is most famous as the name of Hillel the Elder, a renowned Jewish religious leader and scholar from the first century BCE whose teachings significantly influenced Jewish ethics and law.
Cultural Significance of Hillel
The name Hillel holds deep cultural importance in Jewish tradition. It is most famously associated with Hillel the Elder, a sage whose ethical teachings and interpretations of Jewish law are foundational to Rabbinic Judaism. His legacy as a wise and compassionate leader makes the name synonymous with wisdom, humility, and kindness across Jewish communities worldwide.
Hillel Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Hillel remains a respected and meaningful name within Jewish communities globally, though it is less common in secular contexts. It reflects a connection to heritage and scholarship. In recent years, it has seen modest use among parents seeking a name that honors tradition while remaining distinctive and meaningful in modern society.
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More Boy Names Starting With H10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Hillel carries the essence of โPraise, or one who praisesโ from Hebrew tradition. Names beginning with "H" often embody qualities of healing, humanitarian spirit, and vision.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Hillel holds deep cultural importance in Jewish tradition. It is most famously associated with Hillel the Elder, a sage whose ethical teachings and interpretations of Jewish law are foundational to Rabbinic Judaism. His legacy as a wise and compassionate leader makes the name synonymous with wisdom, humility, and kindness across Jewish communities worldwide.
Hillel II
A Jewish sage credited with creating the modern fixed Hebrew calendar in the 4th century CE.
Hillel ben Samuel
A prominent 13th-century Italian Jewish physician and philosopher known for his rationalist approach to Jewish thought.
Hillel Slovak
Musician
Hillel Furstenberg
Mathematician
Hillel Kook
Political Activist
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Fun Fact About Hillel
Hillel the Elder is credited with the famous ethical maxim: 'If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?'
Personality Traits for Hillel
Individuals named Hillel are often associated with wisdom, thoughtfulness, and a calm presence. The name suggests a person who values learning, compassion, and ethical behavior. They tend to be reflective, patient, and inspiring leaders or mentors in their communities, embodying a gentle yet strong character.
What does the name Hillel mean?
Hillel is a Hebrew name meaning โPraise, or one who praisesโ. Hillel is a Hebrew name meaning 'praise' or 'he who praises.' It comes from the root word 'halal,' which means to shine or boast. Historically, it is most famous as the name of Hillel the Elder, a renowned Jewish religious leader and scholar from the first century BCE whose teachings significantly influenced Jewish ethics and law.
How do you pronounce Hillel?
Hillel is pronounced (IPA: หhษชl.ษl). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Hillel?
Popular nicknames for Hillel include: Hill, Hilly, Hal, Lel, Hils, Hilo, Hilz, H, Hile, Lele.
Who are famous people named Hillel?
Famous people named Hillel include: , , , Hillel Slovak, Hillel Furstenberg.
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Hillel is a beautiful Hebrew name meaning โPraise, or one who praisesโ. Hillel is a Hebrew name meaning 'praise' or 'he who praises.' It comes from the root word 'halal,' which means to shine or boast. Historically, it is most famous as the name of Hillel the Elder, a ren...
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