About the name Rafail / Raphael
Etymology & meaning
Rafail comes from the Hebrew Refael — "God heals". It is the name of the healing archangel of the Book of Tobit; Bulgarian also uses Rafael, with Rafi as the colloquial short form.
History & patron saint
The Holy Archangel Raphael is honoured on Arhangelovden (8 November) — the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and all the heavenly powers, when the whole angelic circle of names celebrates. In Orthodox tradition Raphael is the angel of healing and of travellers.
Traditions & customs
Arhangelovden is among the most honoured autumn feasts — with a kurban for health and ritual loaves. Rafail celebrates beside Mihail, Gavril and Angel at a shared rich table.
Popularity & notable bearers
Rafail is rare but globally recognisable; in Bulgaria it has been carried chiefly by clergy, while the form Rafael gains ground among newborns.