The spelling of the word "Shiphtan" is based on the Hebrew language, which uses a different alphabet and pronunciation than English. In IPA phonetic transcription, "Shiphtan" would be spelled /ʃɪf'tæn/. The initial "sh" sound is the same as the "sh" in "sheep", while the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit". The "f" is aspirated and pronounced with a burst of air, followed by a short "a" vowel sound. The final "n" is pronounced with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth.