Shifra

Origin & Etymology

Shifra is a Biblical Hebrew name derived from the root sh-p-r meaning beautiful, good, or to improve. The name appears in Exodus 1:15 as one of two Hebrew midwives who defied Pharaoh's order to kill all Hebrew newborn boys. Shifra and her colleague Puah risked their lives by telling Pharaoh that Hebrew women gave birth before the midwives could arrive. For this extraordinary act of moral courage, they are among the earliest individuals in world literature celebrated for civil disobedience in defense of human life.

Popularity Story

Shifra has seen a revival in Jewish communities as parents seek authentic biblical names with heroic associations. It is gaining traction in Israel and among diaspora Jewish communities who value meaningful heritage names with strong female role models.

Cultural Significance

Shifra holds enormous significance in Jewish tradition as a heroine of the Exodus narrative. Her defiance of Pharaoh represents moral courage, and she is celebrated in both traditional Jewish scholarship and contemporary feminist biblical studies. The Talmud identifies Shifra with Yocheved, Moses's own mother.

Fun Facts

• Shifra and Puah are the first named heroes in the Book of Exodus, appearing before even Moses
• The Talmud teaches that Shifra was actually Yocheved, the mother of Moses
• Shifra and Puah are among the earliest figures in recorded history celebrated for civil disobedience

Shifra in Other Languages