Shifra
Shifra is a Jewish girl name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Beautiful; to make fair”.
| Meaning | Beautiful; to make fair |
|---|---|
| Gender | Girl |
| Origin | Hebrew |
| Written as | שִׁפְרָה |
| Pronunciation | SHIF-rah |
| Tradition | Jewish, Christian |
| Used in | Israel, United States |
Meaning and origin of Shifra
Shifra comes from the Hebrew root sh-p-r, 'to be beautiful' or 'to improve'. In Exodus 1:15-21 Shiphrah and Puah are the Hebrew midwives who defy Pharaoh's order to kill newborn Israelite boys, and God rewards them for it. Rabbinic tradition identifies Shifra with Jochebed, mother of Moses, explaining that she 'beautified' the babies. The name is popular among Orthodox Jewish families.
Is Shifra a Jewish name?
Yes, Shifra is a biblical name: the brave midwife of Exodus 1. She is admired in Jewish tradition as an early example of courageous civil disobedience.
How popular is Shifra?
Used mainly in Orthodox Jewish communities in Israel and the United States.
Gifts with the name Shifra
- Shifra name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Shifra baby gifts (Amazon)
- Jewish baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Shifra
Names similar to Shifra
More Jewish girl names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Shifra mean?
Shifra means 'Beautiful; to make fair'. It is of Hebrew origin.
Is Shifra a Jewish name?
Yes, Shifra is a biblical name: the brave midwife of Exodus 1. She is admired in Jewish tradition as an early example of courageous civil disobedience.
How do you pronounce Shifra?
Shifra is pronounced SHIF-rah.
Is Shifra a boy or girl name?
Shifra is usually a girl name.