Shiphrah

Pharaoh and the Midwives, James Tissot c. 1900
Meaning and Origin
Shiphrah, a name rooted in Hebrew origins, carries the profound meaning of splendor. This etymology reflects a sense of brightness and magnificence, which aligns beautifully with the moral courage and inner strength demonstrated by the biblical figure bearing this name. The linguistic roots of Shiphrah suggest a connection to beauty and radiance, qualities that transcend mere physical attributes and embody spiritual and ethical brilliance.

Pharaoh and the Midwives, James Tissot c. 1900
Name Shiphrah in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
Today, the name Shiphrah is recognized in 54 countries, with notable popularity in Lesotho, Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Malta. Its enduring appeal across diverse cultures reflects the universal admiration for its biblical roots and the inspiring narrative it represents. In many Christian communities, the name is celebrated as a symbol of moral courage and divine splendor.
Country | Variant | Rank |
---|---|---|
Lesotho | Sefora | 436 |
Congo, The Democratic Republic of the | Sefora | 1053 |
Malta | Sefora | 1418 |
Israel | שפרה | 1795 |
India | Sipra | 2205 |
Italy | Sefora | 3212 |
Côte d'Ivoire | Sefora | 3333 |
Slovakia | Sifra | 3872 |
Kenya | Shiphrah | 3880 |
Guatemala | Sefora | 3920 |
Uganda | Shiphrah | 4518 |
Estonia | Sipra | 4808 |
Ukraine | Шифра | 5344 |
Nicaragua | Sefora | 5345 |
South Africa | Sefora | 6002 |
Showing top 15 of 54 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
The significance of Shiphrah is most vividly illustrated in her courageous actions as one of the Hebrew midwives in the Book of Exodus. With a Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100, her association with God is evident in her moral decision to defy Pharaoh’s decree to kill male Israelite infants. This act not only preserved the lives of countless children but also demonstrated unwavering faith and obedience to God over earthly authority. Her Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 further highlights her alignment with the values embodied by Jesus, such as compassion, protection of the vulnerable, and resistance to oppression.
Biblical Context
Shiphrah appears briefly but powerfully in Exodus 1:15, where she is named alongside Puah as one of the Hebrew midwives tasked by Pharaoh to commit infanticide against male Israelite babies. Her refusal to comply with this heinous order not only saved lives but also set the stage for the eventual liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian oppression. By attributing her actions to her fear of God, the scriptures underscore her profound spiritual conviction and moral integrity.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- Exodus 1:15