Shifra is a Hebrew name that appears in the Old Testament as one of two midwives who defied Pharaoh's decree to kill newborn Hebrew boys. The name is a Hebrew form of Shiphrah, which may derive from a Hebrew root meaning "to be beautiful" or "to be fair." In the biblical account (Exodus 1:15–21), Shiphrah and Puah are commanded by the Egyptian king to kill all male Hebrew infants at birth, but they fear God and refuse to carry out the order. When questioned, they explain that Hebrew women give birth so quickly that the midwives arrive too late. As a result, God blesses the midwives, and the people of Israel continue to multiply. The story highlights themes of civil disobedience, faith, and divine justice.
Etymology
The name Shifra is the Hebrew vocalization of the biblical name Shiphrah (שִׁפְרָה). The root š-p-r is associated with beauty or pleasantness — related to the Hebrew word shafir ("beautiful") and the Arabic ṣafara ("to shine"). The name thus carries connotations of fairness, radiance, or goodness. In post-biblical use, Shifra and its variant forms have been used among Jewish communities worldwide, and more recently, among Hebrew-speaking Israelis.
Notable Bearers
In modern times, notable bearers include Shifra Horn (born 1947), an Israeli author known for her novels on Jewish history; and Shifra Sacks (born 1998), an Israeli chess player and titled national master. The name also appears in rabbinic literature, where the midwife Shiphrah is sometimes identified with Jochebed, the mother of Moses, though this is a later Jewish tradition not found in the biblical text itself.
Cultural Significance
The story of Shiphrah and Puah has been retold as an early example of nonviolent resistance. Feminist interpretations emphasize their agency in protecting life despite risk; religious takes often highlight their reverence for God above earthly rulers. The names Shifra and Puah now serve as symbols of moral courage and maternal defiance. Their legacy is taught in Jewish schools and studied in Christian contexts as well, making Shifra a name deeply rooted in interfaith ethical discourse.
- Meaning: "Beautiful" or "fair" (via Shiphrah)
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: Given name
- Usage regions: Hebrew-speaking Jewish communities, Israel; among Christians and others who use the Bible for naming
- Related: Forms include Shiphrah; sometimes linked to the name Sufir