What does the name “Israel” mean?

The name “Israel” holds a significant place in Islamic tradition, as it is a title given to Prophet Yaqub (AS), one of the esteemed Prophets mentioned in the Holy Qur’an. The meaning of the name is generally understood as “Man of God” or “Servant of God,” reflecting the deep devotion, righteousness, and spiritual connection that Prophet Yaqub (AS) had with his Creator. Linguistically, the word “Israel” is derived from Hebrew, where “Isra” means servant or one who strives, and “El” refers to God. When combined, the name highlights the honor and closeness of Prophet Yaqub (AS) to Allah.

In Islamic teachings, the title “Israel” carries no political or modern-day association; instead, it strictly refers to the noble Prophet and the lineage that descended from him. The Qur’an refers to his children as Bani Israel, meaning “the Children of Israel,” indicating that this name connects directly to a prophetic heritage. Prophet Yaqub (AS) is widely respected for his patience, wisdom, and unwavering faith, qualities that align perfectly with the meaning of his blessed title. His story, especially his love and concern for his son Prophet Yusuf (AS), beautifully illustrates his compassionate and God-centered personality.