Gibrans

Gibran is an Arabic surname that also functions as a given name in several Arab and Middle Eastern communities. The name is believed to derive from the Arabic root “g‑b‑r” which conveys the notion of a “gateway” or “entrance,” suggesting a symbolic opening or passage. Variants include Jibran, Gibran, and Jibran, reflecting differences in transliteration from Arabic or Persian into the Latin alphabet.

Notable individuals bearing the surname include Khalil Gibran (1883–1931), a Lebanese‑American writer, poet, and visual artist who is best known for his book The Prophet. Gibran’s poetry and prose blend Eastern mysticism with Western literary traditions, and his work has been translated into more than 50 languages. Other prominent figures with the name Gibran include Gibran Hamdan, an emerging contemporary Iraqi artist, and Gibran Walid, a Lebanese film director known for his work on social-documentary projects.

In addition to its use as a personal name, Gibran appears in place names and cultural references throughout the Levant. For example, Gibran village in the southern district of Lebanon is recognized for its historic olive groves and traditional architecture. The name is also used in various institutions and organizations in Lebanon and Jordan, often honoring the legacy of Khalil Gibran and symbolizing cross‑cultural dialogue.

Because of its literary, cultural, and geographic significance, the name Gibran continues to be celebrated in academic circles, community organizations, and literary festivals across the Middle East and the diaspora.