Ishmael

Proper Noun

/ˈɪʃmeɪəl/

Ishmael refers to the first son of Abraham and Hagar in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with themes of exile and survival.

1. In the biblical narrative, Ishmael’s lineage is seen as the forefathers of many Arab peoples.

2. The protagonist of Herman Melville’s novel ‘Moby-Dick’ famously introduces himself with the line, ‘Call me Ishmael.’

3. Many literary and cultural references invoke Ishmael to discuss themes of isolation.

In a broader sense, the name Ishmael can symbolize the outcast or the one who is cast away, reflecting themes of separation and resilience.