Bilal is a name of Arabic origin, derived from the word "bilal" which means "precious, valuable". It has been widely used in various Muslim communities around the world due to its association with one of the companions of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad, Bilal ibn Rabah.
Bilal ibn Rabah was an Ethiopian who was enslaved before being freed by Abu Bakr, a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad. After his emancipation, Bilal became a devoted follower of Islam and eventually served as the first muezzin, the person responsible for calling Muslims to prayer five times a day. His powerful voice and devotion made him an ideal candidate for this important role.
The name Bilal has been popular among Muslims throughout history, with many notable figures bearing the name. In addition to Bilal ibn Rabah, other prominent individuals include Bilal al-Haytham, a renowned Islamic scholar from the 14th century, and Bilal Phillips, a modern-day Islamic missionary and author.
In recent years, the name Bilal has also gained popularity outside of Muslim communities,appearing in various pop culture references such as films, television shows, and literature. Despite its increasing secular usage, the name remains deeply rooted in its religious origins and continues to be cherished by Muslims worldwide.
The name Bilal has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Between 1964 and 2023, there have been a total of 5,514 births registered with the name Bilal.
Looking at the data year by year, we can observe a consistent rise in the number of babies named Bilal. The first peak occurred in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with 63 births in 1980 and 56 births in 1982. However, it was not until the late 1990s that the name Bilal started to gain real traction.
The year 1997 marked a turning point, with 127 births recorded for the name Bilal, which was the highest number at the time. This trend continued into the new millennium, with another peak in 2002 when there were 168 babies named Bilal.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Bilal has remained high and relatively stable. Between 2016 and 2023, the number of births for the name Bilal has fluctuated between 152 and 178, indicating that it continues to be a favored choice among parents in the United States.
It is worth noting that the rise in popularity of the name Bilal mirrors broader trends in naming practices in the United States. As American society becomes more diverse, parents are increasingly drawn to names with cultural significance or international origins like Bilal. This shift reflects the country's changing demographics and growing global connections.