Hibernate is a powerful framework for Java that simplifies database interactions through Object-Relational Mapping (ORM). It allows developers to work with data in the form of Java objects, eliminating the need for complex SQL queries and enabling easier data manipulation. By managing the mapping between Java classes and database tables, Hibernate streamlines the process of persisting data. It supports various databases and provides features like caching, lazy loading, and transaction management, making it a popular choice for enterprise applications that require robust data handling.