Etymology
Ozihel is the Latin form of the Hebrew name Uzziel, used in the Latin Old Testament (the Vulgate). The name Uzziel is composed of two Hebrew elements: ʿoz meaning "strength, power" and ʾel meaning "God", thus conveying the meaning "my power is God" or "God is my strength". This epithet reflects the recurrent biblical theme of divine empowerment and protection.
Biblical Context
In the Hebrew Bible, Uzziel appears as a name borne by several minor characters, primarily from the tribe of Levi. One notable Uzziel was a son of Kohath (and thus grandson of Levi), making him an ancestor of the Levitical families (Exodus 6:18). Another is a prophet mentioned in the time of King Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:14). The Latinized form Ozihel may be found in older Catholic Bibles such as the Douai-Rheims, which were translated from the Vulgate.
Linguistic Variants
In addition to Ozihel, other transliterations of the Greek form appear in biblical translations. The Oziel variant is used in the Septuagint and some vernacular versions that follow Greek tradition (e.g., in some European languages). The name has also been occasionally used in Christian families, especially in Latin-influenced cultures, but remains quite rare today.
- Meaning: "My power is God" or "God is my strength"
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: Biblical male name (form of Uzziel)
- Usage: Latin Old Testament (Vulgate), rare in modern times