Shaul

Shaul is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin, the Hebrew form of Saul. It derives from the root sha’al, meaning to ask, request, or inquire, and is often understood as “the desired one” or “the one asked for.” In Hebrew, the name is written Sha’ul, with a glottal stop, and is commonly transliterated as Shaul, Shaul, or Saul.

In the Hebrew Bible, Sha’ul (Saul in English) is the first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. He reigned in the early monarchy and achieved several military successes, but later disobeyed God’s commands in ways that led to divine rejection of his house and the anointing of David as his successor. His narrative appears chiefly in the Books of Samuel.

In modern usage, Shaul remains a common given name in Israel and among Jewish communities. The English form Saul is widely used, while the Hebrew spelling Sha’ul remains standard in Hebrew-language contexts. The name’s popularity has persisted across centuries, reflecting its biblical heritage.

Notable people named Shaul include the Israeli politician Shaul Mofaz, who has served as defense minister and in other prominent governmental roles.