Deborah is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the biblical figure Deborah, who was a prophetess and judge in ancient Israel. Her name means "bee" or "honey bee," which symbolizes industriousness, sweetness, and productivity.
The story of Deborah begins in Judges Chapter 4 of the Old Testament. She is introduced as a wise and courageous woman who becomes a judge over Israel after they fall into sin and are oppressed by their enemies. As a judge, Deborah leads her people with justice and compassion, delivering them from their enemies' hands.
Deborah's most notable accomplishment was rallying the Israelites to fight against the Canaanite army led by Sisera. She called upon Barak, another Israelite leader, to lead an army against Sisera. Although Barak hesitated at first, Deborah encouraged him and accompanied him into battle. The result was a decisive victory for the Israelites, with Sisera's army routed and Sisera himself killed by Jael, a Kenite woman.
Throughout history, the name Deborah has been associated with strength, leadership, and wisdom. It has been used in various cultures and countries, particularly among Jewish communities and those influenced by biblical traditions. Today, Deborah remains a popular choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Deborah saw a rise between 1958 and 1961 with five births each year, resulting in a total of ten children sharing this name over these years.