nazir

Nazir, in Jewish tradition, refers to a Nazirite, a person who takes a vow of consecration described in the book of Numbers. The vow typically requires abstaining from wine and grape products, avoiding contact with corpses, and not cutting the hair for the duration of the vow, symbolizing separation to the divine. Nazirite vows are voluntary and can be for a set period or lifelong depending on the individual's intention. At the conclusion of the vow, the Nazirite shaves the hair and presents offerings at the sanctuary as part of the ritual, with the hair itself often burned as part of the ceremonial finish.

Notable Nazirites in the Hebrew Bible include Samson and Samuel, both described as Nazirites from birth. Samson is famed for his uncut hair as a sign of his vow, while Samuel is presented as dedicated to God from childhood. The Nazirite tradition emphasizes personal dedication and separation unto specific religious purposes, distinct from other forms of ritual purity in ancient Israel.

Outside biblical usage, Nazir is a common given name and surname in various cultures, especially in Arabic-, Urdu-, and Turkish-speaking communities. In these contexts, Nazir is typically a male name and may be interpreted as meaning or implying a watchful, observing, or overseeing role, reflecting linguistic roots related to seeing or guarding. The name remains in use across many Muslim-majority and South Asian communities.