We celebrate National Israel Day on February 4 to honor everyone named Israel. This name, also known in its various forms like Yisrael or Yisroel, has biblical roots. Derived from Hebrew, it translates to “God’s Fighter,” a title given to Jacob in the Bible after he grappled with an angel. Historically, Jews have adopted this name, and it also marks the fall of the ancient Kingdom of Israel to the Assyrians in 721 B.C. Today, it denotes the modern state of Israel. In Britain, especially Wales, it’s a tradition to choose biblical names.
History of National Israel Day
The name Israel first appeared in records by a bishop from Caucasian Albania in the 7th century while attempting, albeit unsuccessfully, to convert Alp Iluetuer of the North Caucasian Huns to Christianity in 682. While the name is predominantly linked with the country of Israel, its earliest associations go back to King David around 1000 B.C. King Solomon, David’s son, is credited with building the first sacred temple in ancient Jerusalem. Around 931 B.C., the nation split into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern Judah. The Assyrians overtook the northern kingdom in 722 B.C., and the Babylonians captured Jerusalem in 568 B.C., demolishing the first temple, later replaced around 516 B.C. by a second. From 1517 to 1917, the Ottoman Empire ruled the region now known as Israel. Based on the earliest written record from ancient Egypt, the name Israel has identified an ethnic group in the Levant for over 3,200 years. A hieroglyphic inscription on the Merneptah Stele, also known as the “Israel Stele,” declares, “Israel is laid desolate, its offspring is no more,” dating to the late 13th century B.C.
National Israel Day Timeline
- 722 B.C. – The northern kingdom of Israel is destroyed.
- 7th Century – A bishop of Caucasian Albania first records the name Israel.
- 13th Century – An ancient inscription about Israel is discovered.
- 1517 – The Ottoman Empire takes control of what is now Israel.
FAQs
- What does the Qur’an say about Israel? The “Qur’an” refers to the Land of Israel as the homeland for the Jewish people.
- Is there a prophet named Israel? No, there is not.
- What is Israel’s nickname? Izzy is a common nickname for Israel.
National Israel Day Activities
- Explore Israel’s history: Dive into the origins and unique cultural heritage of Israel.
- Cook Israeli cuisine: Embrace your namesake by trying out traditional Israeli dishes.
- Engage on social media: Celebrate by posting about National Israel Day and connecting with others who share your name.
Interesting Facts About The Name Israel
- 57,000 census records exist for the surname Israel.
- Ben-Gurion named the modern country Israel.
- 44,209 people named Israel are in the U.S.
- California has the highest number of people named Israel.
- 3,101 different last names exist for individuals named Israel.
Why We Love National Israel Day
- Religious significance: The name Israel resonates deeply with religious contexts, offering comfort and motivation to Christians.
- Rich history: With roots stretching back to 931 B.C., the name Israel carries a storied past.
- Bond through names: Sharing the same name can spark instant connection and camaraderie.
What is the date of National Israel Day every year?
Year of Event | Day | Day of the week | Take place |
National Israel Day 2024 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2024 | Sunday | 0 days |
National Israel Day 2025 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2025 | Tuesday | 0 days |
National Israel Day 2026 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2026 | Wednesday | 292 days |
National Israel Day 2027 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2027 | Thursday | 657 days |
National Israel Day 2028 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2028 | Friday | 1022 days |
National Israel Day 2029 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2029 | Sunday | 1388 days |
National Israel Day 2030 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2030 | Monday | 1753 days |
National Israel Day 2031 | Day 4 Month 2 Year 2031 | Tuesday | 2118 days |
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