Rivka

♀ Girl

Pronounced RIV-kah /ˈrɪv.kə/High

Meaning: The original Hebrew form of Rebecca, from the root r-b-q (רבקה), meaning 'to bind,' 'to tie,' or 'to snare.' Associated with the matriarch Rivka (Rebecca) in the Book of Genesis.High

In 30 seconds: Rivka is the authentic Hebrew form of Rebecca, carrying the full weight of one of the Torah's most beloved matriarchs. Used widely in Jewish communities, it has an earthy, ancient beauty.

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Origin HighHebrew

MeaningThe original Hebrew form of Rebecca, from the root r-b-q (רבקה), meaning 'to bind,' 'to tie,' or 'to snare.' Associated with the matriarch Rivka (Rebecca) in the Book of Genesis.

U.S. rank (2025)#629 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births464 girls (0.03% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 10,018

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Rivka is the original Hebrew name that became Rebecca in Latin and English. The root r-b-q connotes binding or tying, with folk etymologies including 'captivating beauty.' In the Hebrew Bible, Rivka is the wife of Isaac and mother of Jacob and Esau, and one of the four Jewish matriarchs.

Rivka is used predominantly in Orthodox and traditional Jewish communities as the authentic Hebrew form, while Rebecca is more common in secular and non-Jewish contexts. In Israel, Rivka (רִבְקָה) is a standard given name. The name has gained appreciation outside Jewish communities for its strong, ancient sound.

Did you know? In the Book of Genesis, Rivka (Rebecca) is described as a woman of remarkable initiative — she alone decides to leave her family and journey to marry Isaac, making her one of scripture's most independently spirited women.

Overall data confidence 90%

Behind the Name — Rivka — etymology and biblical contextU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

RebeccaRebekahRiva

Nicknames

RivaRiviBecca

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Rivka…

Devorah— fellow Hebrew matriarch name used in traditional Jewish communities

Leah— shares the biblical matriarch heritage and the authentic Hebrew form

Miriam— another Old Testament Hebrew name with strong cultural resonance

Naomi— fellow short, sonorous Hebrew name from the Book of Ruth

Frequently Asked

What does the name Rivka mean?

Rivka is the Hebrew form of Rebecca, meaning 'to bind' or 'to tie.' It is the name of one of the four Jewish matriarchs in the Book of Genesis.

How do you pronounce Rivka?

Rivka is pronounced RIV-kah /ˈrɪv.kə/ — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Rivka a boy or girl name?

Rivka is used exclusively as a girls' name.

How popular is Rivka?

Rivka is most common in Jewish communities and in Israel, where it is a standard given name. In the broader U.S., it is less common but growing as parents seek authentic Hebrew forms.