What is the origin of the surname Samuel?

The surname Samuel has Hebrew origins, derived from the given name "Samuel," which means "God has heard." It is commonly associated with the biblical figure Samuel, a prophet and leader in ancient Israel. The surname may have been adopted by families of Jewish descent, as well as by non-Jewish populations influenced by the name through various cultures and languages over time. Variants of the name can be found in different regions, reflecting local linguistic adaptations.