Rising since 1992, #4,707 for boys today.
Popularity of Betzalel since 1982
Babies named Betzalel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 23 |
| 1990s | 30 |
| 2000s | 94 |
| 2010s | 123 |
| 2020s | 117 |
Meaning & origin
Betzalel is a biblical Hebrew name with a deeply symbolic meaning: 'in the shadow of God.' In the Book of Exodus, Bezalel was divinely inspired as the chief craftsman of the Tabernacle, making the name historically significant in Jewish tradition. Despite its ancient roots, the name has seen modern usage in the United States, where it first appeared in records in 1982. It has been steadily rising in popularity since the early 1990s, with its peak year in 2023, when it ranked 4,707th. In the 2020s, Betzalel has maintained a position outside the top 4000, reflecting a niche but growing appeal. The name is most frequently given in New Jersey and New York, states with substantial Orthodox Jewish communities. As a rare name, it offers a distinctive choice for families seeking a strong biblical connection.
Betzalel (Hebrew: בְּצַלְאֵל) is a biblical name meaning 'in the shadow of God' or 'under God's protection.' It appears in the Book of Exodus, where Bezalel is the chief artisan of the Tabernacle, chosen by God and filled with wisdom, understanding, and skill. The name has been used among Jewish communities for centuries, with particular reverence for its biblical bearer. In modern times, it has been adopted more broadly, though it remains relatively uncommon outside of religious contexts.
Where Betzalel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Betzy, Tzalel
Variants: Bezalel, Betzelel
Sibling names for Betzalel
Names that share Betzalel's style, for a brother or sister.
