Marija is a feminine given name of Slavic origin, derived from the Latin name Maria, which in turn is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam. The name Marija means "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness," although it is often associated with other meanings such as "sea of sorrow" or "wished-for child."
The name Marija has a rich history and can be traced back to ancient times. In the Bible, Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron, and she played an important role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt. The name Maria became popular in the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great, who is said to have had a vision of a woman named Maria before his conversion to Christianity.
Over time, Marija has been adopted by many cultures and languages around the world. In some Slavic languages, such as Croatian and Serbian, Marija is used interchangeably with Maria, while in other languages, such as Finnish and Estonian, Marija is considered a distinct name with its own pronunciation and orthography.
Today, Marija remains a popular given name for girls throughout Eastern Europe, as well as in other parts of the world where Slavic cultures have had an influence. It is often associated with qualities such as strength, determination, and grace, although these traits are not universally applicable to all individuals named Marija. Ultimately, the meaning and significance of the name Marija will vary depending on cultural and personal interpretations.
The name Marija has been a popular choice among parents in the United States since the early 1960s. Over the span of nearly six decades, there have been a total of 514 babies born with this name.
The number of births per year fluctuated significantly during this period. The highest peak was reached in 2008 with 21 births, while the lowest point occurred in several years, including 1962 and 1984, with only 5 births each.
Despite these variations, it is clear that Marija has remained a consistent choice for parents throughout different eras. This demonstrates the enduring appeal of this name among American families.