Betzalel is a Hebrew masculine given name. The name comes from the Bible, specifically in Exodus 31:2, where it is written that Betzalel was chosen by God to be the chief artisan for the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wandering in the wilderness.
The name Betzalel means "in the shadow of God" or "in the shade of God." It can also mean "God is my shelter," as it combines the Hebrew words "bet," meaning house or shelter, and "zel," meaning shadow. This etymology reflects the idea that Betzalel was under divine protection and guidance throughout his life.
Betzalel is mentioned several times in the Bible, not only for his role in building the Tabernacle but also as the father of Oholiav, who assisted him in this task. His name has been carried on through generations, appearing in Jewish families throughout history.
Today, Betzalel remains a lesser-known but meaningful Hebrew name, appreciated by those who seek unique and significant names for their children or themselves. It is often associated with creativity, craftsmanship, and divine inspiration, given its biblical context. However, it's essential to remember that like any name, the personality traits and life path of an individual named Betzalel are not determined by the name itself but rather shaped by their personal experiences, upbringing, and choices.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Betzalel has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. From 1982 to 2023, there have been a total of 345 births registered with the name Betzalel.
During this period, there were several years where the name was quite popular. For instance, from 2003 to 2006, the number of babies named Betzalel consistently reached double digits each year, ranging from 12 to 14 births annually. This trend continued in subsequent years as well, with peaks in 2018 (18 births) and 2023 (26 births).
However, there were also periods where the popularity of the name was lower. Between 1987 and 1995, for example, the number of babies named Betzalel fluctuated between 5 to 7 births per year. Similarly, from 2010 to 2013, the figure ranged from 7 to 11 births annually.
Despite these fluctuations, it's clear that overall, the name Betzalel has gained traction in recent years. This positive trend suggests that parents continue to choose this name for their newborns, contributing to its growing popularity and presence in American society.