Nameberry of the Day: Shiva
March 8
Today, on March 7, is the Hindu festival Maha Shivaratri, honoring and celebrating the deity Shiva.
Shiva is considered to be the Supreme Lord who creates, protects, and transforms the universe. Maha Shivaratri commemorates the wedding of Shiva and the goddess Parvati, and the day includes fasting, prayer, and meditation.
In India, the Sanskrit name Shiva — which has attributed meanings such as “lucky” and “auspicious” — is used predominantly for boys as per the male deity.
Like many Hindu deities, Shiva has a plethora of alternative names, some of the most intriguing including Rudra, Jati, and Hara.
As a girl’s name, Shiva has separate Persian origins meaning “charm” and “eloquence”.
In the US, the name is equally rare for boys and girls, with only 12 baby boys and 9 baby girls given the name in 2022.
Most Westerners pronounce Shiva with a long e sound, as in Viva. For example.
In case you missed these Names of the Day:
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