Penina Bat Elkanah
Biblical figure, one of the wives of Elkanah and rival to Hannah in the Old Testament.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈpɛnɪnə
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Syllables
Penina is a Hebrew name meaning 'pearl.' It originates from the Hebrew word 'peninah,' symbolizing something precious and rare. Historically, pearls have been treasured for their beauty and rarity, making the name Penina evocative of value, purity, and elegance. It also appears in biblical texts as the name of one of Jacob's wives, adding religious and cultural weight to its use.
Cultural Significance of Penina
Penina holds significance in Jewish culture as a biblical name borne by one of Jacob's wives. In biblical narratives, Penina was one of the two wives of Elkanah, known for her rivalry with Hannah, who prayed fervently for a child. The name symbolizes beauty and value, akin to a pearl, and is often chosen for its spiritual and cultural resonance within Jewish communities and beyond. Pearls in many cultures represent wisdom and purity, enhancing the name's appeal.
Penina Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Penina is a relatively uncommon but cherished name, appreciated for its melodic sound and deep roots. It appeals especially to parents looking for a meaningful biblical or Hebrew name that is distinctive yet accessible. While not among the most popular names globally, it enjoys steady use in Jewish and Israeli communities and is gaining slow recognition in multicultural settings due to its elegance and rich heritage.
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International Variations8
PeninahPeninePennynePéninaPeninnaPenenaPennaPenia
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More Girl Names Starting With P10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Penina carries the essence of “Pearl” from Hebrew tradition. Names beginning with "P" often embody qualities of patience, perfectionism, and philosophical thinking.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Penina holds significance in Jewish culture as a biblical name borne by one of Jacob's wives. In biblical narratives, Penina was one of the two wives of Elkanah, known for her rivalry with Hannah, who prayed fervently for a child. The name symbolizes beauty and value, akin to a pearl, and is often chosen for its spiritual and cultural resonance within Jewish communities and beyond. Pearls in many cultures represent wisdom and purity, enhancing the name's appeal.
Penina Moise
19th-century American Jewish poet and hymn writer, recognized for her contributions to Jewish liturgical music.
Penina Taylor
Contemporary Jewish educator and author known for her work in Jewish outreach and education.
Penina Axelrad
Noted mathematician contributing to aerospace research and education.
Penina Lieber
An advocate and writer on Jewish culture and women's issues.
Penina Roth
Jewish educator and community leader involved in cultural preservation.
Penina Segal
Israeli figure known for contributions to the arts and education.
Penina Goldstein
Prominent Jewish community organizer and philanthropist.
Penina Moise
Poet and Hymn Writer
Penina Taylor
Jewish Educator and Author
Penina Axelrad
Mathematician
Penina Lieber
Writer and Advocate
Penina Roth
Educator
Penina Segal
Artist and Educator
Penina Goldstein
Philanthropist
Penina Davidson
Basketball Player
The Chosen ()
A Stranger Among Us ()
The Rabbi's Daughter ()
One Night with the King ()
Touched by an Angel ()
The Hebrew Hammer ()
Shtisel ()
Fiddler on the Roof ()
Parents: Natalie Portman & Benjamin Millepied
Penina
🌐Spanish
Pénina
🌐French
Penina
🌐German
Penina
🌐Italian
ペニナ
🌐Japanese
佩妮娜
🌐Chinese
بنينه
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Penina
The name Penina directly translates to 'pearl,' which has historically been a symbol of wisdom and purity across many cultures, making it a name that carries timeless elegance.
Personality Traits for Penina
Individuals named Penina are often perceived as graceful, thoughtful, and uniquely radiant, much like a pearl. They tend to have a calm and nurturing demeanor, paired with inner strength and resilience. Peninas are imaginative, empathetic, and often drawn to creative or humanitarian pursuits. Their name reflects a personality that values authenticity, beauty in simplicity, and loyalty.
What does the name Penina mean?
Penina is a Hebrew name meaning “Pearl”. Penina is a Hebrew name meaning 'pearl.' It originates from the Hebrew word 'peninah,' symbolizing something precious and rare. Historically, pearls have been treasured for their beauty and rarity, making the name Penina evocative of value, purity, and elegance. It also appears in biblical texts as the name of one of Jacob's wives, adding religious and cultural weight to its use.
How do you pronounce Penina?
Penina is pronounced (IPA: ˈpɛnɪnə). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Penina?
Popular nicknames for Penina include: Penny, Nina, Pina, Pen, Peni, Nini, Penny-Pen, Pena, Penni, Penny Bear.
Who are famous people named Penina?
Famous people named Penina include: , , , , .
Which celebrities named their baby Penina?
Celebrity babies named Penina include children of: Natalie Portman & Benjamin Millepied.
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Penina is a beautiful Hebrew name meaning “Pearl”. Penina is a Hebrew name meaning 'pearl.' It originates from the Hebrew word 'peninah,' symbolizing something precious and rare. Historically, pearls have been treasured for their beauty and rarity, ma...
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