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Samuel Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Samuel

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name SAMUEL. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Samuel

Gender

Male

Origin

Hebrew

Lucky Number

8

Meaning of the Name

Samuel means 'asked of God' or 'God has heard,' reflecting the biblical story of Hannah's prayers for a child being answered. This Hebrew name carries connotations of divine response to heartfelt requests and dedicated service.

Stages of a Male

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

8

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Saturn

Positive Nature

Ambitious, efficient, realistic, and authoritative.

Negative Traits

Materialistic, stressed, confrontational, and can be overly ambitious.

Lucky Colours

Dark blue, black.

Lucky Days

Saturday.

Lucky Stones

Blue sapphire, amethyst.

Harmony Numbers

2, 4, 6.

Best Suited Professions

Business leaders, managers, financial services, law enforcement.

What People Like About You

Leadership, determination, organizational skills.

Famous People Named Samuel

Samuel L. Jackson

Actor

One of the highest-grossing actors of all time with iconic roles across multiple franchises

Samuel Morse

Inventor

Revolutionized communication with the telegraph and Morse code invention

Samuel Beckett

Writer

Nobel Prize-winning playwright who transformed 20th century theatre

Samuel Adams

Political leader

Key architect of American independence and revolutionary movement leader

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Shmuel Hebrew Samuele Italian Samvel Armenian Samuil Russian/Bulgarian Sámuel Hungarian

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Samuel occupies a central position in Abrahamic religious traditions as one of the most significant prophets and transitional figures in biblical history. As the last of the Judges who anointed Israel's first kings, Samuel represents the bridge between tribal leadership and monarchical rule, embodying both spiritual authority and political transformation. His birth story—where his previously barren mother Hannah dedicates him to God after her prayers are answered—establishes the core meaning 'asked of God' and creates a powerful narrative of divine intervention and human dedication. This foundational story has resonated across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions for millennia, making Samuel a symbol of hopeful perseverance and spiritual commitment.

The name's cultural impact extends beyond religious contexts into broader Western civilization. During the Protestant Reformation and Puritan movements, Old Testament names like Samuel gained popularity as alternatives to saint names, emphasizing direct relationship with God rather than saintly intercession. In American history, Samuel Adams became an iconic figure of revolution and independence, further cementing the name's association with moral conviction and leadership. The enduring presence of Samuel across diverse cultures—from European royalty to African American communities—demonstrates its unique ability to maintain religious significance while adapting to secular contexts, making it one of the most cross-culturally successful Hebrew names.

Extended Personality Analysis

People named Samuel are commonly associated with a distinctive blend of intellectual depth, moral integrity, and practical wisdom. They often possess a natural authority that stems from thoughtful consideration rather than assertiveness, making them effective leaders who earn respect through competence and character. Many Samuels exhibit strong analytical abilities combined with intuitive understanding of human nature, allowing them to navigate complex situations with both logic and empathy. Their decision-making process tends to be deliberate and principled, reflecting the biblical Samuel's role as a judge who weighed matters carefully before speaking truth to power.

In interpersonal relationships, Samuels are typically reliable and loyal, often serving as the stable center in their social or family circles. They may demonstrate protective instincts toward those they care about, sometimes bordering on paternalistic concern. While generally calm and measured, Samuels can display surprising passion when their core values are challenged. Many develop early maturity and sense of purpose, possibly influenced by the childhood calling narrative associated with their namesake. The common nickname 'Sam' adds an accessible, friendly dimension to the more formal Samuel, allowing individuals to balance gravitas with approachability in different contexts. This combination of depth and warmth makes Samuels valued as both advisors and companions.

Modern Usage & Popularity

Samuel maintains robust popularity as a classic yet contemporary male name across English-speaking countries and beyond. In the United States, it has consistently ranked within the top 50-60 boys' names for over two decades, demonstrating remarkable staying power without becoming overused. Its appeal crosses religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic boundaries—equally embraced by conservative Christian families for its biblical significance and by secular parents for its strong, professional sound. The name's versatility contributes to its enduring appeal: formal enough for professional contexts through 'Samuel' while offering friendly, approachable nicknames like 'Sam' or 'Sammy' for personal use. Internationally, Samuel enjoys widespread recognition and positive associations, making it an excellent choice for globally mobile families. Recent naming trends show Samuel resisting the dramatic fluctuations that affect more fashionable names, instead maintaining steady popularity that suggests it's perceived as a timeless, reliable choice rather than a passing trend.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Samuel represents the profound connection between human aspiration and divine response, embodying the concept of earnest requests being met with meaningful answers. The name carries deep connotations of listening—both to the divine and to one's inner moral compass—suggesting an ability to perceive truths that others might miss. As the prophet who transitioned Israel from judgeship to monarchy, Samuel symbolizes boundary-crossing leadership and the courage to navigate periods of significant change while maintaining ethical integrity. The temple calling narrative adds layers of meaning about early destiny recognition and lifelong commitment to higher purposes. Psychologically, Samuel can represent the mediating function between different aspects of consciousness or community, the voice that bridges divides and facilitates understanding. The name also embodies legacy and continuity, as the biblical Samuel's influence extended through multiple generations, making it symbolic of enduring impact and the transmission of wisdom across time.

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