A Rose By Any Other Name...

A Practical Perspective: How to Pick a Hebrew Name

Converts have always selected Hebrew names that speak to them personally; Ruth has long been a favorite for obvious reasons. [Ruth, the grandmother of King David, is perhaps the Bible's best-known convert.] Most converts choose a biblical name. There are 2,800 personal names in the Hebrew Bible, and although fewer than five percent of those are in current use, all of them are yours to consider.

As a convert, I was blessed with being able to choose my own Hebrew name. I chose a double first-name in consultation with my rabbi. My Hebrew name is רחל אסתּר בּת אברהם ו שׂרה Rachel-Esther bat-Avraham v'Sara [Rachel-Esther the daughter of Abraham and Sarah]. Converts are considered orphans under Jewish law and we are "adopted" by Avraham and Sara.

I chose the name רחל [Rachel] because she was the mother of Yosef haTzaddik [Joseph the Righteous] and also because she cried for her children (the Jews) and was only comforted by G-d when she was told that even though her children would go into the galut [exile], they would return to Eretz Yisrael [Land of Israel]. I chose the name אסתּר [Esther] for her strength and wisdom. She, along with her cousin Mordechai, saved the Jews from the evil Haman.

Choosing a Hebrew name should not be taken lightly. Consultation with the rabbi and thoroughly exploring Hebrew names are essential for all converts. This Hebrew name will be used in all religious functions (e.g. being called for aliyah [saying a blessing over the Torah]) as well as on a Ketubah [marriage contract]. Choose well, and live up to the name you chose.