Rebekah
Meaning and Origin
The name Rebekah originates from the Hebrew name Rivkah (רִבְקָה), which means 'a noose' or 'to bind.' This etymology carries both a literal and figurative sense, symbolizing someone who binds or captivates, often associated with beauty and charm. In its deeper cultural and historical context, the name reflects the qualities of allure and influence, as seen in Rebekah's role in biblical narratives. The idea of 'binding' can also extend metaphorically to her pivotal role in family dynamics and covenantal relationships in the Bible.
Name Rebekah in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
The name Rebekah has a global presence, being found in 172 countries and particularly popular in nations such as Australia, Bermuda, and Israel. Its enduring appeal lies in its biblical roots and timeless qualities of grace and strength. Variants like 'Rebecca' are widely recognized and used across cultures, further cementing its universal appeal.
Country | Variant | Rank |
---|---|---|
Australia | Rebecca | 19 |
Bermuda | Rebecca | 21 |
Israel | Rebecca | 24 |
Cayman Islands | Rebecca | 39 |
Réunion | Rebecca | 52 |
Congo, The Democratic Republic of the | Rebecca | 55 |
New Zealand | Rebecca | 55 |
Malta | Rebecca | 55 |
United States | Rebecca | 60 |
United Kingdom | Rebecca | 65 |
Vanuatu | Rebecca | 68 |
Uganda | Rebecca | 78 |
Isle of Man | Rebecca | 83 |
Martinique | Rebecca | 84 |
Ireland | Rebecca | 100 |
Showing top 15 of 172 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
Rebekah holds a prominent place in biblical history as the wife of Isaac and the mother of Esau and Jacob. Her Divine Proximity Index of 94.0/100 highlights her strong association with God's divine plan, while her Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underlines her indirect connection to the lineage of Christ through Jacob, her son, who became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. Rebekah's spiritual significance lies in her role as a matriarch of Israel, whose story illustrates themes of faith, providence, and human agency in God's overarching plan.
Biblical Context
Rebekah's story is primarily found in the Book of Genesis (chapters 24–28). She is introduced when Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. Rebekah's kindness and hospitality are evident when she offers water to the servant and his camels, fulfilling the sign he prayed for. This encounter underscores her divine selection as Isaac's wife. Later, Rebekah becomes a pivotal figure in the birthright story, favoring Jacob over Esau and orchestrating the deception that leads to Jacob receiving Isaac's blessing. This act, while controversial, aligns with God's prophecy that 'the elder shall serve the younger.'
Divine Proximity Metrics
God Proximity
SNA: 3.46 | Percentile: 93.97
Biblical References
- Genesis 20:13
- Genesis 26:4
- Genesis 35:8
- Genesis 49:30
- Genesis 20:10