Ismael

A Quranic Name for Boys

Meaning: Virtuous, Pious, God-Fearing and Devoted to God

Ismael is variant of Ismaeel and has the exact same meaning and pronunciation (see below for full meaning). You can use either Ismael or Ismaeel, both are correct and acceptable. If you like this variant more and you'd like to pronounce it the way it is spelled (different than the original name), this is perfectly acceptable. For more details please see the main entry at: Ismaeel.

Full Meaning of Ismael

Ismael is a direct Quranic name for boys that refers to one of the prophets mentioned in the Quran. Ismael, who is known as Ishmael in the English-speaking world, was the son of Prophet Ibrahim and Hajar, peace be upon them, and he is considered the father of most Arabs, including the Arabs of Quraysh from which Prophet Muhammad ﷺ came (while Ismael’s brother, Ishaak/Isaac, is the father of all Jews).

Ismael comes from Hebrew roots, from the words Isma’ (hearer) and eel (Allah), thus the full meaning is “one who hears Allah”, “one who obeys God’s commands”.

Ismael is mentioned 12 times in the Quran.

And [mention] when Abraham was raising the foundations of the House (in Makkah) and [with him] Ismael/Ishmael, [saying], “Our Lord, accept [this] from us. Indeed You are the Hearing, the Knowing.” (Quran 2:127)