'Ofra

'Ofra is a Biblical Hebrew name, the original form of Ophrah in the Old Testament. The name derives from a Hebrew word meaning "fawn" or "young deer," evoking qualities of grace and swiftness. In the Old Testament, 'Ofra appears as both a personal name and a place name. As a personal name, it is listed for a descendant of Judah in the book of Chronicles (1 Chronicles 4:14). As a toponym, 'Ofra refers to a city in the territory of the tribe of Manasseh, east of the Jordan River.

Etymologically, 'Ofra is linked to the root ʿ-pr, which in Hebrew can denote covering or dust, but the primary association is with a fawn, suggesting a fondness for the young animals symbolizing innocence and vitality. This root also appears in related names such as Ofer, a modern Hebrew name meaning "fawn."

'Ofra should not be confused with the more familiar modern Hebrew name Ophrah, which is a transliteration variant. In ancient texts, the geographic 'Ofra is known as the hometown of the judge Gideon (Judges 6:11). The city's name highlights the Semitic custom of naming places after animals or natural features, a practice that reflected the surrounding landscape and cultural values. Today, the personal name 'Ofra remains rare, but it preserves a connection to biblical heritage and the natural world.

Key Facts

• Meaning: "fawn"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: Biblical masculine name and place name
• Usage region: Historical Hebrew Bible, with revival in modern contexts