Meaning of the Harari family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Harari coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Harari name meaning and origin
The surname Harari originates from the Hebrew word for "mountain dweller." It is commonly associated with individuals from the Harar region in Ethiopia, which has historical significance in Jewish heritage. Harari families often carry cultural ties to Jewish ancestry and traditions.
History of family crests like the Harari coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Harari name variations and their meaning
Hailing from a rich linguistic tapestry, the family name Harari showcases fascinating variations across several cultures. In Italy during the 16th century, the name morphed into Hararini, reflecting the natural inclination to adapt surnames to local phonetics. Similarly, in the Iberian Peninsula during the 17th century, the Harari name evolved into Arari, influenced by the region's frequent drop of consonants and the introduction of the vowel-final naming convention. By the 19th century, as migration spread, Harari took on the adaptation of Hararić in Slavic regions, a transformation highlighting the addition of Slavic linguistic markers such as diminutives. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, diasporic communities, particularly in Israel, have embraced the name, resulting in variations such as Harariov, reflecting the Hebrew linguistic influences that shaped modern surnames. These adaptations reveal the name’s journey through time, illustrating how cultural interactions and linguistic evolution shape familial identities across generations.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
