Shemuel

Shemuel is the Hebrew form of the given name Samuel. In Jewish and Christian traditions, Samuel is a central figure in the Books of Samuel, and the name is widely used in Hebrew-speaking and diaspora communities.

The name is typically interpreted as a combination of 'shem' meaning name and 'El' meaning God, yielding "name of God." Another common interpretation derives from 'shama' meaning to hear, combined with 'El,' yielding "God has heard."

According to the Hebrew Bible, Samuel is a prophet and the last judge of Israel. His mother Hannah, who had long prayed for a child, dedicated him to God; he is raised by the priest Eli in Shiloh. As a youth, Samuel receives a divine call and becomes a transitional leader, anointing Saul as the first king of Israel and later anointing David. He plays a key role in shaping the early monarchy and prophetic leadership, guiding Israel during the shift from tribal federation to centralized rule.

In Judaism and Christianity, Samuel is regarded as a major prophet; the Books of Samuel recount his life and deeds. His legacy includes establishing prophetic institutions and overseeing the transition to the Davidic dynasty.

Today, Shemuel is used as a given name in Hebrew-speaking communities and among diaspora populations; in Hebrew it is often transliterated as Shmuel, and in English as Samuel. The spelling Shemuel appears in various transliterations of Hebrew texts.