Rivka
RIV-kah
Rivka is the original Hebrew form of Rebecca, from the Hebrew root r-b-q meaning “to bind” or “to tie,” likely referring to a snare or a connection of faithfulness. In the Torah, Rivka was the wife of the patriarch Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob.
Her story in Genesis portrays her as a decisive, resourceful woman who acts independently to secure Jacob’s blessing—making her one of the most complex female figures in the Hebrew Bible.
Rivka is at its all-time US peak: No. 710 in 2024 with 395 births. Like Chana and Yosef, its rise reflects a trend toward authentic Hebrew forms in Jewish communities.
What the name Rivka means
The name is standard in Ashkenazi Jewish communities, where it is the primary form. The anglicized Rebecca was the dominant form in secular and Christian contexts for centuries, but Rivka is gaining ground as Jewish families reclaim Hebrew originals.
Two syllables—RIV-kah—are firm and grounded. The hard consonant cluster at the start and the open -ah ending create a satisfying contrast of strength and softness.
Parents choosing Rivka want the biblical original rather than its Greek and Latin intermediaries, a decision that carries strong cultural and religious significance.
Related forms include Rebecca (English/Latin via Greek), Rebekah (Hebrew-flavored English spelling), Rebeka (Slavic), and Rebbeca—all tracing back to the same Hebrew root.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Rivka
Rivka - similar names
Not seeing what you want? Browse all names by origin or popularity