Belal is a name of Arabic origin, derived from the verb "balala," which means "to mix or combine." It translates to "mixed" or "combined." The name Belal has historical significance as it was borne by several notable figures in Islamic history.
One of the most famous bearers of this name was Belal ibn Rabah al-Habashi, an Ethiopian freed slave who became the first muezzin (the person who calls Muslims to prayer) in Islam. He was appointed by the Islamic prophet Muhammad himself around 624 CE. This significant role has led to many Muslims naming their sons Belal in honor of this historical figure.
The name Belal is also associated with other notable individuals throughout history, such as Belal ibn Al-Harith, a companion of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and a prominent figure during the early Islamic period.
In terms of popularity, Belal is more commonly used in Muslim communities worldwide, particularly among those of Arab descent. However, it has gained recognition beyond these communities due to its historical significance and unique sound.
Overall, the name Belal carries a rich history and cultural significance that continues to resonate within Islamic communities and beyond. Its meaning, derived from a verb suggesting unity or combination, makes it a fitting choice for those seeking a name with deeper meaning.
The name Belal has seen a fluctuating trend in popularity over the past four decades in the United States. According to the annual birth statistics provided, there were five births with the name Belal in the year 1977. This number increased slightly to seven in 1979 and eight in 1980 before dropping back down to five in both 1981 and 1982.
However, starting from 1983, there was a noticeable increase in the number of babies named Belal, with seven births that year. This trend continued, with eight births each in 1984 and 1985, reaching a new peak of nine births in 1986.
The years between 1987 and 1990 saw significant growth in the popularity of the name Belal, with the highest number of births recorded at 24 in both 1990 and 1996. This period also included a notable spike in 1989 with 16 births.
From 1997 onwards, the popularity of the name Belal began to decline slightly, but it remained relatively stable, with an average of about 15-20 births per year until around 2015. Since then, there has been a slight resurgence in popularity, with 17 births in 2015 and 19 births in both 2018 and 2021.
In total, over the past four decades, there have been 683 babies named Belal born in the United States. This data shows that while the name Belal may not be one of the most popular choices, it has maintained a consistent presence in the American naming landscape.