Abihail is a unisex name of Hebrew origin, found in the English Bible. It means "my father is strength," derived from the Hebrew roots אָב (ʾav) meaning "father" and חַיִל (ḥayil) meaning "strength." In the Old Testament, Abihail appears as the name of several distinct individuals, both male and female, reflecting its use across different tribes and periods. Etymology and Meaning The name Abihail is a theophoric compound, combining the word for "father" (ʾav) with ḥayil ("strength, power, might"). The phrase "my father is strength" can be interpreted as a declaration of faith in God as a source of strength, or as a reference to a human father's protective role. The name is closely related to the Biblical Hebrew form 'Avihayil, which appears in some manuscripts. Biblical Figures According to the Bible, five different people bear the name Abihail: A Levite who lived during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings; he was head of the house of Merari, Levi's youngest son (Numbers 3:35). The wife of Abishur of the tribe of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:29). A leader from Gilead of Bashan, head of the tribe of Gad (1 Chronicles 5:14). The daughter of David's brother Eliab; she married David's son Jerimoth and became the mother of Mahalath, wife of King Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:18). The father of Queen Esther and uncle of Mordecai (Esther 2:15; 9:29). This Abihail is the most notable, as his daughter Esther became queen of Persia and saved the Jewish people from genocide. Cultural and Religious Significance Abihail is primarily known through its biblical appearances, especially as the father of Esther. The story of Esther, celebrated during the Jewish festival of Purim, highlights themes of courage and divine providence. As a name, Abihail has been used among English-speaking Christians since the Protestant Reformation, though it remains rare. Its unisex nature reflects the biblical precedent of both male and female bearers. Related Names The name is directly related to the Biblical Hebrew 'Avihayil, which shares the same meaning. The root name Esther (meaning "star" or possibly derived from the goddess Ishtar) is connected through Abihail's daughter. Meaning: "My father is strength" Origin: Hebrew Type: Unisex first name Usage: English Bible, rare in modern times