The name Esequiel is a Spanish and Portuguese form of the Hebrew name Ezekiel, which means "God strengthens" or "God will strengthen." It has its origins in ancient Israel and can be traced back to the biblical prophet Ezekiel, who lived in the 6th century BCE.

Ezekiel was one of the major prophets in the Hebrew Bible and was known for his vivid prophecies and visions. The Book of Ezekiel, which is part of the Old Testament, recounts his prophetic messages and experiences during the Babylonian exile of the Israelites. Ezekiel's name became associated with strength, courage, and divine support, which contributed to its enduring popularity as a given name.

The earliest recorded use of the name Ezequiel in its Spanish form dates back to the 13th century, when it appeared in historical records and documents from Spain and Portugal. This was likely influenced by the spread of Christianity and the translation of the Bible into various languages, including Spanish and Portuguese.

Over the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the name Esequiel. One of the earliest examples is Esequiel de Molina (c. 1470-1529), a Spanish theologian and philosopher known for his work on the rights of indigenous peoples in the Americas. Another prominent figure was Esequiel Navarro (1844-1920), a Chilean politician and diplomat who served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

In the 20th century, Esequiel Padilla (1890-1951) was a Mexican composer and musician who played a significant role in the development of Mexican folk music. Esequiel Hernández (1971-1997) was a young American citizen killed by US Marines in a controversial incident near the Texas-Mexico border, which sparked debates about border security and the use of force.

Esequiel Muñoz (born 1987) is a contemporary Spanish actor and model known for his roles in television series and films. He is one of the more recent public figures to carry the name Esequiel, reflecting its continued use in Spanish-speaking cultures.