Unveiling the Foundations of the 'Bethel' Surname through iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Bethel
Embark on an unforgettable journey of unlocking family history and connecting with distant relatives using the iGENEA DNA Test. An experience that reveals how a simple surname, in this case, "Bethel," could harbor deep-rooted historical and geographical ties.
Utilizing the iGENEA DNA Test has been an enlightening journey into my family's history, specifically shedding light on the origins and purported spread of my surname, Bethel. The process was simple and convenient — a home DNA kit sent, swabbed, returned, and then all that was left was to wait for the comprehensive results. I was astounded by the plethora of information the company secured from a simple swab.
The results astounded me. I discovered that the Bethel surname is rooted in Anglo-Saxon history, primarily infamous in the areas now known as Sussex and Yorkshire in England. The surname bore connection to early 7th-century warriors of the Bethel kingdom, a nugget of historical lore that I had no knowledge of prior to the testing. This explained a lot about the prominence and presence of the Bethel name in regions of the UK, something I had always idly wondered.
Another surprising revelation was the Bethel name being noticeably linked to the ancient Jewish town Beit El. Considering my family and I had always identified as Christian, this introduction to a potential Jewish lineage was astounding and led me to question and further explore this newfound branch of our heritage.
In addition, the DNA database connected me to several individuals bearing the Bethel surname who I shared significant genetic similarities with. To my surprise, these connections were global, spanning countries such as Australia, Canada, and South Africa. Interacting with some of these newfound distant relatives has been an invaluable experience, leading to enlightening exchanges and a broadening of my horizons about our shared surname.
All in all, the iGENEA DNA Test has been an instrumental tool in my journey of self-discovery and understanding the historical nuance behind the Bethel surname. It has not only given me a deeper understanding of my roots but also the opportunity to branch out and connect with others who share my DNA. The world feels a bit smaller, yet so much richer now.
V. Bethel