Coastin Carl
👩🦱 National MARIA Day ORIGIN & HISTORY
National MARIA Day is celebrated on the 8th Day in May. This is a day to honor and appreciate everyone with the name “Maria” anywhere in the world. The name Maria has a rich and fascinating history that spans many cultures and centuries.
One of the most commonly known origins of the name is its Hebrew roots. In the Old Testament, the name “Miriam” is used for Moses’ sister, which means rebelliousness or bitterness. In the New Testament, the Greek version of the name, “Mariam”, was used for the mother of Jesus, who is commonly referred to as “Mary” in English.
Over time, the name Maria became a popular name throughout Europe, especially among Christians who revered the mother of Jesus. The name has been translated into various languages and has taken on different forms: including Marie in French, Mary in English, Marija in Croatian, and Mariella in Italian.
In many cultures, the name “Maria” is associated with purity, grace, and motherhood. It has been used as a symbol of hope and strength, and it has been given to many notable figures throughout history, including several saints and queens.
In the Spanish-speaking world, the name “Maria” has been particularly popular, and it is often combined with other names to create compound names, such as “Maria Teresa” or “Maria Isabel.” These compound names have become a common way for parents to honor multiple family members or to add a special meaning to their child’s name.
Overall, the name Maria has a long and storied history, and it continues to be a beloved and popular name around the world.
The Rich History of MARIA
The name “Maria” has multiple possible origins. One of the most commonly cited origins is the Hebrew name “Miriam”. This name is used in the Old Testament for the sister of Moses.
Another possible origin of the name is the Egyptian term “mry” which means beloved or loved one. This name was used for both males and females in ancient Egypt and may have been brought to Europe by the Crusaders.
In addition, the name Maria is also associated with the Roman goddess of fertility, Maia. It’s believed that the name “Maria” may have evolved from the Latin name Marius which was a name commonly used by Roman soldiers.
Regardless of its specific origins, the name Maria has become a widely used and beloved name around the world, particularly among Christians who revere the mother of Jesus, often called Mary. The name has taken on many different forms and spellings across various languages and cultures, but its meaning of “beloved” or “rebelliousness” continues to be associated with the name to this day.
Overall, Maria is a widely recognized and beloved name with a rich history and cultural significance.
Choosing MARIA as a baby name
The popularity of the name “Maria” can vary from year to year and certainly isn’t immune to cultural fads and personal preferences. Maria is a very popular baby name, both in the United States and around the world. In the United States, Maria has consistently ranked among the top 200 most popular baby girl names since the 1880s.
Around the world, Maria is a popular name in many countries and cultures. Of course, it’s a particularly popular name in Spanish-speaking countries, where it’s often used in honor of the Virgin Mary. The name has also been popular in many European countries, including Italy, Portugal, Poland, and others.
🥰 HOW to Celebrate & Observe National MARIA Day?
Not sure how to LOVE the day? We’ve got a few interesting ideas to consider that may help get you started.
Here are some activities that you can do on National MARIA Day!
💙 Attend a RELIGIOUS event
Well, if you’re Catholic or come from a predominantly Catholic country or culture, you could attend a Mass or procession honoring Mary.
For instance, in the Catholic Church, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, which celebrates the Virgin Mary’s ascent into heaven, is celebrated on August 15th and is a holy day of obligation. Additionally, some countries like Mexico, celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th, which is a significant religious holiday for those with the name Maria!
💙 FIND a classic MARIA-inspired book
If you’re looking for a quieter way to celebrate the name Maria, consider reading a classic book or melody inspired by the name. “For Whom the Bell Tolls” by Ernest Hemingway, “The Sound of Music” by Maria von Trapp, and “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert are well-known examples, but there are many other great works out there to explore.
💙 RESEARCH the name “Maria”
Learn more about the name and its historical reference. Research the history and meaning of the name “Maria” and share what you learn with others. You can also explore the cultural and religious traditions associated with the name. There could be famous people throughout history named Maria, including activists, politicians, or artists. Read about their lives and accomplishments to learn more about the name and its significance.
💙 Give MARIA a GIFT
Here are some gift idea suggestions for your friend, family member, neighbor, or work colleague named MARIA!
- Personalized item: How about a keychain, mug, or piece of jewelry with the name “Maria” engraved on it? Anything can make a thoughtful and unique gift.
- Books or movies: If your person named “Maria” enjoys reading or watching movies, you can give them a book or movie featuring a character with the same name.
- Artwork or decorative items: You can give a piece of art or an ornamental piece with the name “Maria” on it. Alternatively, choose something that reflects the person’s interests or personality.
- Gift card or experience: You can give a gift card or plan an experience that the person named “Maria” would enjoy and possibly never forget – such as a meal at their favorite restaurant or tickets to a memorable concert or event.
- Donation to a charity: If the person named “Maria” is socially conscious, why not donate to a charity that aligns with their values in their name.
💙 RAISE Social Awareness
Use social media posts with the hashtags #NationalMariaDay, #Maria, #FunHolidays, #MayHolidays, #Holiday, #FindADayToLOVE, #iHEARTdays to support the importance of celebrating, promoting, and sharing with the world why you ❤️ National MARIA Day.
LEARN how to pronounce the name MARIA
MULTIPLE PRONUNCIATIONS OF MARIA
MARIA … IN SONG
SIX Fun Facts you never knew about National MARIA Day
- The name Maria is traditionally a female name, although it is not exclusively used for girls or women. In some countries like Spain and Italy, it’s also used as a middle name for boys or as a masculine name in combination with another name (e.g. Juan María or José María). But in most parts of the world, Maria is most commonly given to baby girls.
- Maria is NOT considered a gender-neutral name. However, there are others commonly used as gender-neutral names, such as “Jordan”, “Taylor”, or “Charlie”.
- In some cultures, Maria is considered a lucky name and is believed to bring good fortune to the person who bears it.
- The song “Maria” from the musical “West Side Story” is one of the most famous songs about the name Maria, and it has been covered by many artists over the years.
- If you’re a fan of “The Sound of Music”, you might remember the character Maria von Trapp, who was played by Julie Andrews in the film adaptation.
- The name Maria is the most popular name for baby girls in Mexico!
Famous PEOPLE 🎙️ also named MARIA
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Maria Montessori
Italian physician and educator, best known for developing the Montessori method of education.
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Maria Gaetana Agnesi
Italian mathematician and philosopher, known as the “Mother of Calculus” for writing the first major textbook discussing both differential and integral calculus. She even examined the cubic curve now known as the “Witch of Agnesi”.
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Maria Menounos
American television personality, journalist, and actress. Menounos has written several books advocating health & wellness after her mother was diagnosed with brain cancer and she discovered pancreatic cancer.
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Maria Mitchell
American astronomer and first female professor of astronomy, best known for discovering a comet in 1847. The King of Denmark even awarded her a gold medal prize for the discovery.
Future DATES for National MARIA Day
| Year | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 8 | Monday |
| 2024 | May 8 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 8 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 8 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 8 | Saturday |
📛 Maria FAQ
WHEN is National MARIA Day?
- National MARIA Day is an annual celebration held on May 8th each year.
What are some variant names similar to MARIA?
- There are several variations & derivatives of the name “Maria”. Here are just a few:
- Mary – English version of the name Maria and is one of the most common derivatives.
- Mariah – Variation of the name Maria that became popular in the United States in the 1990s, thanks in part to the singer Mariah Carey.
- Marielle – French name that combines the name Maria with the suffix -elle, and is often used as a diminutive or pet form of the name.
- Marie – This is the French version of the name Maria and is also a popular name in English-speaking countries.
- Miriam – Hebrew name that is closely related to the name Maria and is oftentimes used as a variant.
- Mariam or Maryam – Arabic version of the name Maria and is often used in Muslim cultures.
- Maja – Slavic version of the name Maria and is usually used in countries such as Poland, Serbia, and Croatia.
- Mia – Shortened form of the name Maria that’s become a popular name in its own right.
- Mariana – Combines the name Maria with the Latin name Anna and is often used in Spanish and Italian cultures.
- Marietta – Italian and Spanish diminutive of the name Maria, and can also be used as a standalone name.
- Manya – Russian nickname for the name Maria and is often used as a term of endearment.
- Masha – This is a diminutive of the name Maria that is commonly used in Russia and other Slavic countries.
- Marisa – Combination of the names Maria and Luisa which is often used as a standalone name in Spanish-speaking cultures.
Why we L💜VE National MARIA Day
Most names have a beautiful meaning with an equally long and complicated history. And MARIA is no exception:
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They’ve Got PERSONALITY … Lots Of PERSONALITY
People called Maria are frequently associated with grace, strength, and purity through its biblical origins as the mother of Yahashua; they’re also often known for their friendly and welcoming nature. They tend to be very hospitable and enjoy making others feel comfortable.
Maria is derived from the Latin name Marius, which means “male, virile” or “dedicated to Mars” (the Roman god of war). In this context, the name Maria can represent strength and courage.
In Hebrew, the name Maria is related to the name Miriam, which means “bitter” or “defiant”. This interpretation can represent a strong-willed and independent personality.
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STRONG Willpower & Loyalty
Marias can be determined and resolute, with a strong sense of purpose and direction in life. They’re often fiercely loyal to their friends & family and will go to great lengths to protect and defend those they care about.
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Creativity AND Intelligence
Many Marias are artistic and enjoy expressing themselves through music, art, or writing. They can be highly intelligent and curious, with a love of learning and a passion for acquiring new knowledge.
