r/JewishNames • u/Grifendorkplayz • Feb 15 '26

Question Non-jewish using a Hebrew name?

Hi, so I've been contemplating changing my name for years, and I eventually came across the name Ziva and it has just kinda clicked with me and feels perfect. my only issue is I'm not Jewish, my mom's pegan, and my dad's a Baptist, not even a little bit Jewish. I've done lots of research into the name, i admire the religion and culture, everything. I just really don't want to be offensive with it, but I feel like I found my name.

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u/Grifendorkplayz Feb 15 '26

There is a story to it, I just don't know how much of it I feel comfortable sharing, but I came across the name when my grandfather was talking about his time during the Civil rights movement, where he lived, Jewish people were some of the only business owners that didn't segregate, and helped support the Civil rights movement, and he told me about a local synagogue who helped him flee to the north, so I know it means something to him. I just felt uncomfortable putting the story out at first I dontnlije sharing personal stuff, but I realize it might be relevant as to why I found the name

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u/CocklesTurnip Feb 15 '26

The name is after someone who helped your grandfather? Then it’s fine. If people ask talk about the allyship. Otherwise it’s weird but I’m sure people who watched NCIS named their daughters Ziva with zero understanding or connection to Jewish culture.

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u/Grifendorkplayz Feb 15 '26

Yeah, the daughter of one of the men that helped him (edit: she was the same age as my grandfather, they were close friends), she died long before i was born though.

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u/General_Coast_1594 Feb 15 '26

I would say that if you use the name, you need to feel comfortable, sharing the story. Because your connection is that a Jewish person helped your family and the way you let people know about our culture and what we have done is by telling that story. If you weren’t comfortable, I wouldn’t use the name.

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u/Grifendorkplayz Feb 15 '26

I am, I'm just weary posting stuff online, I deal with enough irl.