Reuel

Reuel is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin. In Hebrew, Reuel (often rendered Re’uʾel) is commonly interpreted as meaning “friend of God” or “God is my friend,” though exact etymology can vary with vocalization. The name appears in English transliterations as Reuel, Rueuel, or Ruel, and it is sometimes shortened to Ruel. It is most often found in religious or biblically informed naming contexts.

In the Hebrew Bible, Reuel is the name of a Midianite priest who is described as the father of Zipporah, Moses’ wife. He is portrayed as a local figure of authority among the Midianites, and Moses ultimately resides with his family briefly after fleeing Egypt. In some traditions and later Jewish and Christian interpretations, Reuel is identified with Jethro, the priest of Midian named in Exodus, though the two names appear in different textual passages in the biblical canon.

Modern usage of the name Reuel remains rare and is largely confined to communities with strong ties to Hebrew or biblical naming patterns. When used today, it is typically in contexts that honor biblical heritage, religious education, or family histories, rather than as a common contemporary name.

Overall, Reuel exemplifies a theophoric Hebrew name that has persisted in religiously informed circles, carrying a meaning connected to friendship with God while maintaining a distinct biblical association through the figure of the Midianite priest who is linked to Moses’ wife Zipporah.