Mikhal is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew word "Mikhael," which means "Who is like God?" It is a variant spelling of the more commonly known Michael. The name Mikhal has been used throughout history, most notably by King David's daughter in the Bible.
The name Mikhal first appears in the Bible as the daughter of Saul and sister of Jonathan. She was betrothed to David but eventually married Paltiel son of Laish after her father tried to force David into a treaty by demanding that he prove his worthiness through combat with his men. Despite this, Mikhal remained loyal to David throughout her life.
In Jewish tradition, Mikhal is also considered one of the matriarchs alongside Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah. She is praised for her devotion to God and her faith in His divine power despite facing adversity.
Today, Mikhal continues to be used as a girls' name primarily within Jewish communities but has also gained popularity among other cultural groups who appreciate its unique sound and historical significance. While it may not be as well-known as Michael or Michelle, those who choose this name likely do so because they value its rich history and distinctive character.
The name Mikhal has seen a steady presence in the United States over the past two decades, with an average of about six babies being named Mikhal each year between 1993 and 2008. The highest number of births was recorded in 2005, with eight babies named Mikhal that year. However, there were also years where this number dipped slightly, such as 1993 and 2008, with only five babies being named Mikhal each year during these periods. Despite fluctuations from year to year, the total number of births for the name Mikhal over this span is a respectable 37.