Rafael

רְפָאֵל

• Gender: Male
• Origin: Biblical English
• Meaning: God heals

• Rafael is one of the great archangel names, belonging to the angel of healing in Jewish tradition. It means "God heals," a meaning that gives the name a gentle, protective quality that pairs beautifully with its undeniably romantic sound. With built-in nicknames like Rafi and Rafe at the ready, it offers parents both depth and versatility.

  French-Moroccan Jewish comedian Gad Elmaleh, sometimes called 'the Seinfeld of France,' chose Rafael for his son — a name meaning 'God has healed' that is currently among the most popular boys' names in Israel. It is surging in popularity for good reason: romantic, cosmopolitan, and deeply meaningful all at once. It travels beautifully across cultures and languages, feeling equally at home in Tel Aviv, Madrid, or Brooklyn. A name with the warmth of Gabriel but a touch more Mediterranean swagger.

• Alternate Spellings: Raphael, Rephael
• English Equivalent:
  Rafael
• Potential Sibling Name:
  Naomi
  ,
  Sarah
  ,
  Elijah
  ,
  Malachi
• Theme: God