21 of 25

Write now Article Tools

The Meaning of Michael

"What is in a name?" In this famous line from Shakespeare's play, "Romeo and Juliet", Juliet attempts to convince Romeo that a name is but an artificial and meaningless convention, thus persuading him to denounce his family name and take Juliet as his lover. The rest, shall we say, is history! Historically speaking, however, it appears that all names, very well indeed, do chronicle some real and inspiring meaning.

Etymology and Origin
The name Michael comes from the Hebrew name Mikha'el, which means "who is like God?" In Hebrew tradition, Michael is one of the seven archangels and the only one depicted in the Bible. In the Book of Revelations, Michael the Archangel is portrayed as a leader of the armies of heaven, a field commander for the army of God, and is such considered a patron saint of soldiers.

Popularity
According to the Social Security Administration, Michael has been the 1st and 2nd most popular name for a boy from 1957 to 2006! That is an incredible 49 years! Perhaps the names religious origin has something to do with its popularity?

Fascinating Facts
Renaissance paintings cloak Michael the archangel in a suit of armor, which is thought to symbolize his strength, courage, honesty and integrity. Joan of Arc (c.1412-1431) is said to have seen Michael at the age of 13. He reportedly was a constant source of encouragement to her, even advising her of what flag she should carry into battle. Pope Leo XXIII wrote a famous poem about Michael after seeing him in a vision. The prayer is still believed to provide comfort to those who speak it today.

Namesakes, Places and Famous Persons
Nine British Emperors bear the name of Michael, as does a Czar of Russia. Austrian/Hungarian inventor Michael Pupin invented the Pupin Inductance Coil in 1894. This has made modern day life easier by allowing long distance telephone communication. In Ireland, Skellig Michael, meaning Michael's Rock, is a steep, rocky island 15 kilometers west of the coast of County Kerry. Michael's Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the home of one of Europe's least accessible monasteries.

In modern times, John Travolta played Michael the archangel in the comedy-fantasy motion picture, "Michael", in 1996. Several popular songs have been written that bear the name in their titles, including "Michael from the Mountains", by Joni Mitchell and "Message to Michael" by Dionne Warwick. Michael's Crafts Stores can be found in a number of Southern California locations. Michael Corleone, played by Al Pacino, is a famous gangster in the Godfather Epic written by Mario Puzo and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Many celebrities carry the name, including King of Pop singer, songwriter Michael Jackson, (born August 29, 1958), NBA star Michael Jordan, (born February 17, 1963), and infamous actor Michael Douglas (born September 25, 1944).

Variants of the Name
In English, the name is oftentimes shortened to Mike, while in Ireland, Mick and Russia, Mischka. Female forms of the name include Michelle and Mikaela, although there are women who bear the name, including actress Michael Learned. Meik and Maik are German short forms of the name Michael, and Meical and Meic, Welsh versions. Mehill or Mhill is Albanian for Michael and in Dutch, Cheil is a variation of the name.

So, you ask then, what is in a name? Names help distinguish us from one another. They identify who we are. Names can tell us about our roots, our birth order or the generation we were born to. To date, the name Michael, deep rooted in history, is a name that transcends time and will most likely be a popular name for decades to come.

Learn more about this author, Deborah Trendel.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Behind the name: Michael?
We want to hear your view. Write now!