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Mara Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Mara

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MARA. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Mara

Gender

Female

Origin

Christian

Lucky Number

6

Meaning of the Name

Mara means 'bitter' and originates from the biblical story where Naomi adopted this name after experiencing profound grief. In Christian tradition, it serves as both a variant of Mary and an abbreviation of Tamara, carrying themes of sorrow transformed into strength.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

6

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Venus

Positive Nature

Harmonious, responsible, caring, and artistic.

Negative Traits

Overly idealistic, superficial, possessive, or jealous.

Lucky Colours

Pink, turquoise.

Lucky Days

Friday.

Lucky Stones

Diamond, turquoise.

Harmony Numbers

2, 3, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Artists, musicians, teachers, healthcare workers.

What People Like About You

Warmth, nurturing nature, artistic flair.

Famous People Named Mara

Mara Wilson

Actress and Writer

Starred in beloved films like 'Matilda' and 'Mrs. Doubtfire' before transitioning to writing

Mara Liasson

Journalist

National Political Correspondent for NPR, known for incisive political coverage

Mara Abbott

Professional Cyclist

Two-time US National Road Race Champion and Olympic cyclist

Saint Mara

Biblical Figure

The name Naomi adopted after personal tragedy, symbolizing grief and resilience

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Mara holds profound significance in Judeo-Christian tradition, originating from the Hebrew word 'marah' meaning 'bitter.' Its most famous biblical appearance occurs in the Book of Ruth, where Naomi, after losing her husband and two sons, declares 'Call me Mara, for the Almighty has made my life very bitter.' This moment captures the raw human experience of grief and transformation, making the name eternally connected to themes of suffering and redemption. Beyond its biblical roots, Mara appears in various cultural contexts - in Buddhism, Mara represents temptation and spiritual obstacles, while in Slavic traditions, it connects to folk mythology and seasonal cycles. The name's journey through different cultures reflects its complex symbolism, balancing themes of sorrow with resilience and spiritual growth, making it a name that speaks to universal human experiences across time and geography.

Extended Personality Analysis

Individuals named Mara often exhibit a unique blend of depth and resilience that sets them apart. They tend to be introspective and emotionally aware, possessing an understanding of life's complexities that belies their years. This emotional intelligence allows them to navigate challenging situations with grace and wisdom, often serving as pillars of strength for others during difficult times. Mara's are typically strong-willed and independent, yet they maintain a compassionate nature that draws others to them for counsel and support. Their combination of inner strength and sensitivity makes them both reliable friends and formidable individuals when facing adversity. Many Mara's develop a philosophical outlook on life, finding meaning in both joy and sorrow, and often become sources of wisdom within their communities, embodying the name's heritage of transforming bitterness into strength.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary times, Mara has experienced a notable resurgence in popularity, particularly among parents seeking names with biblical roots but less common than traditional choices like Mary or Martha. The name maintains steady usage in English-speaking countries, often appealing to those who appreciate its blend of strength and melancholy beauty. Its relative rarity compared to similar names gives it a distinctive quality while remaining familiar and easily pronounceable. Recent years have seen Mara climb baby name charts, reflecting a growing appreciation for names with deep historical roots and emotional complexity. The name's versatility allows it to work well across different cultures and languages, contributing to its enduring appeal among parents looking for a name that is both meaningful and distinctive without being overly unusual.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Mara represents the bittersweet nature of human experience - the profound recognition that sorrow and joy often coexist and inform one another. It embodies the concept of transformation through suffering, much like Naomi's journey from bitterness to redemption in the biblical narrative. The name carries deep connotations of wisdom gained through hardship, resilience in the face of adversity, and the profound understanding that comes from experiencing life's full spectrum of emotions. In a broader sense, Mara symbolizes the alchemical process of turning pain into strength, making it a powerful emblem of human endurance and spiritual growth. Its dual nature as both a name of grief and a variant of Mary (meaning 'beloved' or 'wished-for child') creates a rich tapestry of contrasting yet complementary meanings that speak to the complexity of human existence.

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