The name Hillel originates from the Hebrew language and culture. It is derived from the Hebrew root word "halal" which means to praise or celebrate. The name can be traced back to ancient times, with its earliest known use dating back to the Biblical era.

One of the most prominent historical figures associated with the name Hillel is the famous Jewish scholar and philosopher Hillel the Elder, who lived from around 110 BCE to 10 CE. He is renowned for his influential teachings and his role in the development of the Jewish oral tradition known as the Mishnah. Hillel the Elder is often referred to as one of the greatest sages in Jewish history.

Another notable figure with the name Hillel is Hillel ben Gamaliel II, a Jewish patriarch who lived in the 4th century CE. He was an influential leader of the Jewish community in Judea and played a crucial role in the compilation of the Jerusalem Talmud, a central text in Jewish religious literature.

In the 12th century, there was a Jewish philosopher and rabbi named Hillel ben Samuel, who was born in Verona, Italy, and is known for his contributions to the field of Jewish ethics and philosophy.

In more recent history, Hillel Kook, born in 1915 and died in 2001, was an Israeli rabbi and prominent figure in the Religious Zionist movement. He served as the Chief Rabbi of Israel from 1964 to 1983.

Another notable person named Hillel is Hillel Butman, a South African-born Israeli conductor and composer who was born in 1925 and passed away in 2022. He was widely recognized for his contributions to Israeli classical music and his work in promoting cultural exchange between Israel and other nations.

While the name Hillel has its roots in the Hebrew language and Jewish culture, it has also been adopted and used in various other cultures and communities around the world, particularly in areas with significant Jewish populations or influence.