Rafael: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days, a tradition particularly celebrated across Europe and parts of Latin America, often serve as secondary birthdays honoring the saint or historical figure associated with the given name. For the distinguished name Rafael, this tradition is marked on multiple dates across the calendar year, reflecting its wide geographical adoption. We delve into the classic origin, which establishes its profound meaning, and explore the elegant and artistic mood it projects globally. Furthermore, we examine Rafael's enduring usage and history within the United States. Finally, we highlight its widespread name day observances, such as the major dates of September 29th in Spain and October 24th in the USA.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Rafael's name day is celebrated
on March 24 in Sweden,
June 20 in Hungary,
September 29 in Austria, Croatia and Spain and
October 24 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
The name Rafael has a long-standing tradition within the United States, particularly gaining prominence through Hispanic cultural contributions and immigration patterns. It has consistently held a moderate level of popularity, establishing itself as a recognized classic rather than a fleeting trend. This distinguished name avoids common Anglicization and maintains its authentic pronunciation across different communities. Historically, its presence reflects a deep connection to classic European and Latin American naming conventions, imported heavily starting in the late 19th century. Therefore, Rafael is recognized in the American context as both traditional and elegantly multicultural.
Name origin and meaning
Rafael is a classically derived name stemming from ancient Hebrew sources, shared prominently across major religious traditions. Its core structure is built upon elements signifying divine assistance and health, giving it a powerful theological foundation. The profound meaning of this appellation is traditionally translated as "God has healed" or sometimes "Healed by God." This deeply meaningful and positive association has allowed the name to permeate numerous cultures and languages globally. It is an internationally recognized name due to its significant history in religious texts and literary tradition.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Worldwide, Rafael is nearly exclusively categorized as a masculine name and is strongly identified as such across numerous cultures. This classification holds true across the vast majority of countries, including those in Europe, North America, and Latin America. There are very few, if any, feminine equivalents or established unisex usages of this specific spelling in common usage globally. For example, in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, it is a foundational and traditional male name used historically for generations. Therefore, regardless of regional variance in pronunciation, Rafael functions fundamentally as a classic identifier for males.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
Rafael carries a strong, inherently romantic and elegant mood that suggests classic sophistication. The name projects a sense of profound creativity and refinement, often evoking images of classic artistry and grace. It possesses a distinguished, serious tone tempered by a smooth, melodic cadence when spoken aloud. This blend makes the name feel both historically robust and gently artistic, suggesting a personality that is thoughtful and cultured. Ultimately, Rafael offers a warm yet authoritative vibe that immediately establishes a sense of timeless charm.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Rafael
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 7 – The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 2 - The Diplomat
Traits: Cooperative, intuitive, emotional, peacemaker.
Strengths: Great mediator, sensitive, nurturing, works well in partnerships.
Challenges: Can be indecisive, overly dependent on others, or overly sensitive.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.
Name days: Name Rafael
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Sweden | March | 24 | Gabriel, Rafael |
 Hungary | June | 20 | Rafael |
 Austria | September | 29 | Gabriel, Gabriela, Michael, Michaela, Rafael, Rafaela |
 Croatia | September | 29 | Arkandeli, Gabrijel, Mihovil, Rafael |
 Spain | September | 29 | Gabriel, Miguel, Rafael |
 USA | October | 24 | Denver, Rafael, Rafaela, Raphael, Raphaela |
Name days: Similar names (Rafael)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Poland | January | 24 | Chwalibóg, Felicja, Mirogniew, Rafaela, Rafał, Tymoteusz |
| Poland | June | 20 | Bogna, Bogumiła, Bożena, Florentyna, Franciszek, Michał, Rafaela, Rafał, Sylwery |
| Poland | October | 24 | Antoni, Boleczest, Filip, Hortensja, Marcin, Rafaela, Rafał, Salomon |
Rafael: An Elegant and Global Classic.
The name Rafael stands as a powerful male identifier, universally recognized for its theological origin meaning “God has healed.” Its history in the USA showcases a consistent, traditional usage rooted deeply in multicultural heritage, maintaining its authentic spelling. The inherent mood of the name is one of sophisticated elegance, blending strength with a romantic, artistic sensibility confirmed across all regions. Confirmed almost exclusively as a masculine name across continents, Rafael maintains a distinguished profile worldwide. The continued importance of this classic name is further underlined by its varying name day celebrations throughout the year, marking special dates like March 24th in Sweden and June 20th in Hungary.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
