Ophira

Ophira is an alternate transcription of the Hebrew name אוֹפִירָה (see Ofira). It is a feminine given name derived from the masculine name Ophir, which appears in the Old Testament as the name of a son of Joktan (Genesis 10:29) and also as a place name associated with great wealth, particularly gold. The meaning of Ophir is unknown, though it is often linked to the prized gold of the biblical land of Ophir.

Linguistic and Biblical Origins

The chain of derivation moves from Ophir to Ofir, the modern Hebrew form, and then to its feminine counterpart Ofira. Ophira is thus a New World form of Ofira, introduced as a distinct name alongside Ofira due to alternative transliteration conventions. In modern Israel, Ofir is also used as a feminine name, adding to the complexity.

Notable Bearer

The best-known bearer is Ophira Eisenberg (born 1972), a Canadian American comedian, writer, and actress. She hosted the NPR show Ask Me Another and has performed with storytelling troupes such as The Moth.

Usage and Distribution

Ophira is primarily used among Hebrew-speaking communities, both in Israel and the diaspora. Variants include Ophir, Ofir, and Ofira, all of which share the same etymological root. The name is uncommon but carries strong cultural resonance because of its biblical connections to wealth and exotic provenance.

• Meaning: Unknown, linked to biblical regions of gold.
• Origin: Hebrew.
• Type: Feminine given name.
• Usage Regions: Hebrew-speaking communities worldwide.