Maija: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are a cherished cultural tradition, particularly across Europe, where specific calendar dates are assigned to celebrate those bearing a certain name. The name Maija, originating primarily in Finland and Latvia as a variant of Maria, embodies classic strength and a refreshing, grounded mood. This historically resonant name is recognized on May 10th in Latvia and on July 2nd in Finland, marking important dates for celebrations. Its cultural relevance ensures that Maija is not just a moniker, but a link to deep heritage. The name’s reserved elegance and established history make it a notable choice globally.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Maija's name day is celebrated
on May 10 in Latvia and
July 2 in Finland.
The Story Behind This Name
Maija is a name deeply rooted in Northern European linguistic traditions, particularly popular in the Baltic and Nordic regions, most notably Finland and Latvia. Historically, it has served as a local variation of a very widespread and ancient classical name form. While less common in the contemporary United States, where the spelling Maya is dominant, Maija maintains a certain unique appeal due to its distinct phonetic quality. Its usage often reflects heritage connections in immigrant communities across North America. The name's historical prominence tracks closely with periods of cultural flourishing in Finnish and Latvian society. It remains a classic choice celebrated within these specific global communities.
Name origin and meaning
Maija is primarily understood as a Finnish and Latvian diminutive or variant of Maria. As such, its ultimate meaning derives from the classical Aramaic root, often interpreted as “sea of bitterness,” “rebelliousness,” or perhaps “wished-for child.” In some contexts, it is also linked to the Roman deity Maia, representing the concepts of springtime and growth. However, the Nordic and Baltic usage overwhelmingly favors the connection to the biblical Mary. This established lineage ensures Maija carries a profound historical and cultural weight.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Maija is unequivocally classified as a feminine given name globally. There are virtually no recorded instances or established traditions where Maija is utilized as a male or unisex identifier. Its strong association with the female variant of Maria reinforces this gender identity across all languages where it appears. This strict classification is observed consistently throughout Finland, Latvia, and other regions where the name is culturally relevant. Therefore, Maija is considered a historically and currently female-only designation.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Maija projects a distinctive blend of traditional strength and crisp elegance. Its sound structure lends itself to a mood that is both grounded and slightly reserved, reflecting its Northern European roots. It carries a tone that suggests reliability, wisdom, and a connection to nature, avoiding overly romantic or frilly connotations. The vibe is classic yet refreshingly straightforward, offering an alternative to softer, more common variations. Overall, Maija evokes a strong, quietly confident, and enduring personality.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Maija
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 7 – The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.
Name days: Name Maija
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Latvia | May | 10 | Maija, Mairita |
 Finland | July | 2 | Kukka-Maaria, Maaria, Maija, Maiju, Maikki, Mari, Maria, Marika, Meeri, Riia |
Maija A Name of Heritage and Strength
Maija stands as a distinctly feminine name deeply embedded in Finnish and Latvian culture, deriving its meaning as a variant of Maria. It projects a strong and elegant mood, appealing to those seeking a classic name with unique geographic flair. The enduring nature of Maija is highlighted by its official recognition through name day traditions celebrated annually on May 10th and July 2nd. Though less ubiquitous in the USA than other spellings, its usage signifies a profound appreciation for Nordic and Baltic heritage. Maija is a powerful name offering historical depth and cultural resonance across the world.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
