Rafael: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are traditional cultural celebrations marking the day associated with a person's given name, often tied to religious calendars. The name Rafael is celebrated on various dates globally, reflecting its widespread appeal. Rafael, meaning "God has healed," boasts a long history of global popularity, particularly across the Americas and Southern Europe. Its classic origin and masculine gender identity contribute to its sophisticated and elegant mood. This overview explores the rich background, tone, and specific observance dates associated with the name Rafael.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Rafael's name day is celebrated
on March 24 in Sweden,
June 20 in Hungary,
July 21 in Romania,
September 29 in Austria, Croatia and Spain and
October 24 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
Rafael is a name highly popular across the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking world, including Latin America and Iberian Europe. In the United States, it is a well-established name, primarily due to large Hispanic populations, and often appears consistently within the top 300 names nationally. Historically, the name gained significance through religious veneration, lending it a long-standing tradition in Catholic cultures worldwide. Its widespread adoption means the name maintains a strong presence across continents, from Europe to the Americas and parts of Asia. The spelling sometimes varies (Raphael) but Rafael is dominant in Romance language contexts.
Name origin and meaning
The name Rafael has profound roots in ancient Hebrew tradition. It is derived from the elements *Rafa*, meaning "to heal," and *El*, referring to God. Consequently, the literal interpretation of the name is "God has healed" or "Healer of God." This strong theological background established the name early in religious texts and subsequent European naming conventions. It transitioned into various Romance languages, maintaining its spelling almost perfectly across cultures.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Rafael is overwhelmingly classified as a male given name globally. In almost every country where the name is used, particularly in Spanish, Portuguese, and Slavic cultures, it is reserved exclusively for males. There are virtually no documented instances of Rafael being used as a feminine name, maintaining a strong masculine identity throughout history. It is therefore considered a strictly masculine name worldwide, with no notable unisex usage. The distinct masculine sound and historical association cement its gender classification across continents.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Rafael carries a mood that is both strong and profoundly classic, evoking a sense of elegance and refined tradition. It possesses a romantic tone, often associated with artistry, faith, and historical depth, particularly in European and Latin cultures. The name sounds confident and established, lending a dignified and serious persona. Rafael maintains a sophisticated vibe, avoiding overly playful or modern connotations. It projects strength tempered by grace, suggesting a personality that is reliable and impactful.
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 |
 Romania | July | 21 | Iezechiel, Partenie, 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 A Timeless Classic Male Name
In conclusion, Rafael is a profoundly classical male name with roots meaning "God has healed." Its global popularity, especially in the US and the Spanish-speaking world, confirms its enduring appeal across generations. The name projects a dignified and strong mood, characterized by elegance and historical depth. Reflecting its widespread adoption, Rafael enjoys recognition through multiple name days celebrated internationally, including dates in Sweden, Spain, Hungary, and the USA. This combination of strong meaning, clear gender, classic vibe, and widespread cultural acceptance makes Rafael a timeless choice.
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!
