What does Bethel mean and where does it come from?
Bethel (בֵּיתֵל) is a biblical name derived from Hebrew, referring to a place name in the Old Testament, known as the 'house of God.' It has historical significance in Jewish and Christian traditions, often symbolizing a divine presence. The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world durin
Cultural significance
Bethel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #634 in 1917 — currently #3406 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Bethel?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Bethel?
Bethel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Bethel Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Bethel John
One syllable · timeless choice
Bethel Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Bethel Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Bethel Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Bethel Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Bethel right now?
Rising fast — up 246 spots — currently #3406 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #3406 | 45 | ▲ up 246 · +7% births |
| 2024 | #3652 | 42 | ▼ down 9 |
| 2023 | #3643 | 42 | ▲ up 13 |
| 2022 | #3656 | 42 | ▼ down 931 · -33% births |
| 2021 | #2725 | 63 | ▲ up 223 · +17% births |
| 2020 | #2948 | 54 | ▼ down 395 · -23% births |
| 2015 | #2553 | 70 | ▲ up 861 · +49% births |
| 2010 | #3414 | 47 | ▲ up 627 · +34% births |
| 2005 | #4041 | 35 | ▲ up 503 · +35% births |
| 2000 | #4544 | 26 | ▲ up 3386 · +160% births |
| 1990 | #7930 | 10 | ▼ down 1864 · -9% births |
| 1985 | #6066 | 11 | ▼ down 1714 · -35% births |
| 1980 | #4352 | 17 | ▼ down 173 · +13% births |
| 1975 | #4179 | 15 | ▼ down 283 |
| 1970 | #3896 | 15 | — |
The story of Bethel
Bethel has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. With 5,991 total births recorded, Bethel remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1319 in 1890, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3643 in 2023. Bethel is used for both genders: 83% female and 17% male.
Names that peaked alongside Bethel in 1917:
Bethel by decade
Bethel peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 160 | |
| 1900s | 296 | |
| 1910s | 1,011 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,221 | |
| 1930s | 789 | |
| 1940s | 521 | |
| 1950s | 345 | |
| 1960s | 257 | |
| 1970s | 147 | |
| 1980s | 112 | |
| 1990s | 111 | |
| 2000s | 331 | |
| 2010s | 630 | |
| 2020s | 153 | |
💎With 5,991 total births, Bethel is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Bethel?
Famous people named Bethel
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Bethel (historical community leader)
Bethel led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
B(
Bethel (historical figure)
Bethel bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Bethel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Bethel also consider these
How is Bethel written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Bethel
What does the name Bethel mean?
Bethel means "Hebrew" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Bethel?
Bethel is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Bethel?
Bethel originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Bethel?
Bethel is a two-syllable name pronounced BETH-ul. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bethel a common or rare name?
Bethel is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.