Origin and Meaning of Hillel
Meaning & Origin
To praise or to be praised
Origin: Hebrew - The name Hillel is derived from the Hebrew root 'halal', which means 'to praise'.
Interesting Facts
- Hillel is a significant name in Jewish tradition, closely associated with Hillel the Elder, a famous Jewish religious leader and scholar of the 1st century BCE.
- In Jewish culture, Hillel is often used in connection with the Hillel organization, which supports Jewish campuses and promote Jewish identity among students.
- Hillel the Elder is noted for his influential teachings and for sayings that have been preserved in the Mishnah, a foundational text of Rabbinic Judaism.
- The name Hillel has seen fluctuations in popularity, often rising during periods of increased Jewish cultural pride and observance.
- Variations of the name include Hillel's female counterpart, Hila, and other names stemming from the same Hebrew root, such as Halel.