In Orthodox Christianity, there is a tradition according to which it is customary to name newborns in honor of a saint or saint, whose memory is celebrated on the day the baby is born. Alternatively, an Orthodox name for a boy can be chosen that is consonant with it, if the parents named the baby with a name not mentioned in the calendar. In this case, the priest can help with the choice before baptism.
Traditions of choice
Choosing a name for a child is a serious and responsible matter. Many families resolve this issue in their own way, and there may be certain traditions.
For example, first-born children are often named after their grandfather or father. Some have their own family lists of “allowed” and “forbidden” names for some reason. Some people follow the church calendar.
When choosing a name, future parents should pay attention to:
It should be remembered that the child will bear his name for the rest of his life.. Therefore, you need to choose one that he will also be pleased to hear. To think through all the options, it’s worth trying to put yourself in the child’s shoes. It is important to pay attention to the pronunciation of the boy’s name and patronymic. They should sound harmonious and be easy to pronounce.
Orthodox names for boys
IN Lately All more people turn to their origins. In Russia, parents are increasingly choosing Orthodox names for boys.
In 2017, Alexander, Maxim, Mikhail, Ivan, Daniil, Dmitry, Matvey were popular. Most likely, their popularity will not decrease in 2018. All of them are found in the calendar of Orthodox names for boys.
The decision of what to name their son is made by many fathers and mothers during pregnancy. Having found out the approximate date of birth, they can use the church calendar of names by date of birth and choose the appropriate one by date of birth.
Options for those born in winter
There are many options for “winter” boys:
Spring and summer names
In spring and summer, the church celebrates the memory of many saints and saints. True, some names sound very unusual for modern people, so parents should think about whether they should call their son that:
Choice for autumn birthdays
Among the autumn names there are many popular and only gaining popularity:
- October 19 - Saint Thomas the Apostle. He was one of the apostles of Christ, a craftsman. Name: Thomas, Tamas, Tom.
- October 31 - Holy Apostle Luke. He was one of the disciples of Christ, had the profession of a doctor, but also an artist. Name: Luke.
- November 8 - Holy Martyr Demetrius. He is appointed patron of pastors. Name: Dimitri.
- November 21 - Saints Michael and Gabriel, the most important angels who announced the birth of Christ and John the Baptist. Name: Mikhail.
- December 13 - Saint Andrew. This was Peter's brother, considered the protector of sailors and fishermen. Name: Andrey.
- December 19 - St. Nicholas. He performed miracles and children love to celebrate the day in his honor. Name: Nikolay.
Russians church names for boys, you can find out the months in any temple from the priest, and also consult with him for adoption best solution. Church list will be much more extensive. Let's take, for example, names for boys in November according to the calendar. It will consist of more than 30 names, with at least one saint name for each day. Both rare and more common names will be presented.
What name to choose for the baby? Should we take into account fleeting fashion or age-old cultural traditions? The answers are in the article. As a bonus: a detailed table with the names of the boys and the patron saints for January.
Saints are not just a church calendar indicating the days of remembrance of saints and the circle of church holidays. This is, first of all, Short story Christianity, since each name in this calendar is associated with some person or event important to Orthodoxy.
By naming your baby after the Saints, you allow him to become part of Orthodox traditions.
How to choose a name for a child according to the church calendar?
Many parents complain that the names in the Saints do not always correspond to what they want. In addition, many names in the Saints are quite dissonant (from the point of view modern man). But this does not mean that parents have no choice.
You can choose a name according to the Saints, focusing on several key dates:
- On the baby's date of birth
- For dates between the date of birth and the date of baptism of the child
- On the date of the baby’s baptism and a few days ahead from the date of baptism
Important: our ancestors considered the day of naming a child to be the eighth day from the date of his birth.
Choosing a name for a boy according to the Saints
Agree, having 30-40 dates with names at your disposal, you can always choose a wonderful name for your baby. The main thing is that the fate and deeds of the saint, whose name you are going to name the baby, inspire both him and you to live, full of light, wisdom and creativity.
Choosing a name for the youngest member of the family usually causes heated debate. The wise remark of Theophan the Recluse will reconcile all the relatives and friends of the baby: “Here the matter will be without any human considerations, as God wills: for birthdays are in the hands of God.”
Rely on the wisdom of the Elder and open the Saints and continue reading the article. Below you will find names for boys corresponding to the Orthodox calendar for January. The tables also contain information about the meaning of each name, its origin, and the patron saint of the name.
Boys' names according to the Saints - January: meaning, origin, patron saint
January is a harsh month and this cannot but affect children born this month. Among the virtues of January babies: patience, determination and restraint. You can see names in other months in the articles: , ,
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Holy Martyr Michael the Theologian, presbyter |
Nikita | from Greek | winner | Holy Martyr Nikita Belevsky, Bishop |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Presentation of St. Peter, Metropolitan |
Prokop | from Greek Procopius | naked sword | Blessed Procopius |
Sergey | from Etruscan | highly respected | Holy Martyr Sergius Tsvetkov, deacon (new martyr) |
Feofan | from Greek | Epiphany | Saint Theophan, Bishop of Monemvasia |
Filaret | from Greek | lover of virtue | Saint Philaret, Metropolitan of Kyiv |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Basil | from Greek | regal | |
David | from Hebrew | Darling | Martyr David of Dvinsky, Armenian |
Ivan | from biblical John | God's mercy | Holy Martyr John Smirnov, hieromonk (new martyr) |
Makar | from Greek | blissful, happy | Holy Martyr Macarius Mironov, hieromonk (new martyr) |
Nahum | biblical | comforting | Saint Naum of Ohrid |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Venerable Paul of Neocaesarea, bishop, preacher |
Basil | from Greek | regal | Holy Martyr Vasily Spassky, priest |
Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. IN Orthodox traditions It is not customary to name children after Jesus Christ. If you nevertheless chose the name Jesus for your son, then the patron saint of the baby will be the holy righteous Joshua (but the name day date will not be January 7!)
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Alexander | from Greek | defender |
1. Holy Martyr Alexander Volkov, priest (new martyr) 2. Holy Martyr Alexander Krylov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Basil | from Greek | regal | Venerable Martyr Vasily Mazurenko, hieromonk (new martyr) |
Gregory | from Greek | awake | Holy Martyr Grigory Serbarinov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
David | biblical | Darling | Reverend David |
Dmitriy | from Greek | belonging to Demeter | Holy Martyr Dimitri Chistoserdov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
from Evfimy, from Greek |
pious | Holy Martyr Euthymius of Sardia, Bishop | |
Joseph | biblical | God will multiply | Apostle Joseph Barsabas |
Konstantin | from Greek | permanent, persistent | Venerable Constantine of Sinadia (Phrygian) |
Leonid | from Greek | descended from a lion | Holy Martyr Leonid Antoshchenko, Bishop of Mari (new martyr) |
Michael | biblical | who is like God |
1. Holy Martyr Mikhail Smirnov, deacon (new martyr) 2. Holy Martyr Mikhail Cheltsov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Nicodemus | from Greek | victorious people | Venerable Nicodemus of Tismania, Romanian |
Nikolai | from Greek | conqueror of nations |
1. Holy Martyr Nicholas Zalessky, priest 2. Holy Martyr Nikolai Tarbeev, priest |
Osip | from the biblical Joseph | God will multiply | — |
Yakov | from the biblical Jacob | hot on the heels |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Alexander | from Greek | defender |
1. Holy Martyr Alexander Cicero, priest (new martyr) 2. Holy Martyr Alexander Dagaev, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Arkady | from Greek | resident of Arcadia | Holy Martyr Arkady Reshetnikov, deacon (new martyr) |
Dorofei | from Greek | God's gift | Holy Martyr Dorotheos of Melitino |
Efim | from Greek Euthymius | pious | Martyr Euthymius of Nicomedia |
Ignat | from Latin | fiery | Venerable Ignatius Lomsky, Yaroslavl |
Leonid | from Greek | descended from a lion | Holy Martyr Leonid Vmktorov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Nikanor | from Greek | contemplating victory | Holy Martyr Nikanor, Apostle from the 70s |
Nicodemus | from Greek | victorious people | Holy Martyr Nicodemus of Belgorod, Bishop (New Martyr) |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Ivan | from biblical John | God's mercy | Venerable John of Pechersk, monk |
Benjamin | from Hebrew Benjamin | son of the right hand, beloved son | Reverend Benjamin |
Georgy / Egor | from Greek | tiller | Saint George of Nicomedia, bishop |
Lavr, Lavrentiy | — | bay tree | Venerable Lavrentiy of Chernigov |
Mark | from Latin | hammer | Venerable Mark of Pechersk |
Thaddeus | from Greek / from Hebrew | gift of God/praise | Venerable Thaddeus the Confessor |
Theophilus | from Greek | God-loving |
1. Venerable Theofl of Pechersk, recluse 2. Venerable Theophilus of Omuch |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Alexander | from Greek | defender |
1. Holy Martyr Alexander Organov, priest (new martyr) 2. Holy Martyr Alexander Trapitsyn, Archbishop (new martyr) |
Bogdan | from Greek Theodotus | given by God | Holy Martyr Theodotus |
Basil | from Greek | regal |
1. Saint Basil the Great, Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia 2. Holy Martyr Basil of Ankyria (Caesarea) |
Vyacheslav | from the ancient Slavs. | most glorious | Holy Martyr Vyacheslav Infantov, priest (new martyr) |
Gregory | from Greek | awake | Saint Gregory of Nazianzus the Elder (Theologian), bishop |
Eremey | from Hebrew Jeremiah | exalted by God / may the Lord exalt | Venerable Martyr Jeremiah Leonov, monk (new martyr) |
Ivan | from biblical John | God's mercy |
1. Holy Martyr John Suldin, priest (new martyr) 2. Holy Martyr John Smirnov, priest (new martyr) |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Holy Martyr Michael Bleiwe, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Nikolai | from Greek | conqueror of nations | Holy Martyr Nikolai Bezhanitsky, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Martyr Peter of the Peloponnese |
Plato | from Greek | wide | Holy Martyr Platon (Kulbush) of Revel, Bishop (New Martyr) |
Trofim | from Greek | breadwinner | Holy Martyr Trofim Myachin, priest (new martyr) |
Theodosius | from Greek Theodosius | God-given | Venerable Theodosius of Triglia, abbot |
Yakov | from the biblical Jacob | hot on the heels | Holy Martyr Jacob Alferov, priest (new martyr) |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Basil | from Greek | regal | Martyr Vasily Petrov (new martyr) |
Kozma | from Greek | world order, universe | Saint Cosmas of Constantinople, Archbishop |
Mark | from Latin | hammer | Reverend Mark Deaf |
Modest | from Latin | modest, unpretentious | Holy Martyr Modest |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Venerable Peter of Rome |
Seraphim | from Hebrew | fire Angel | Venerable Seraphim of Sarov, wonderworker |
Sergey | from Etruscan | highly respected | Holy Martyr Sergius |
Sidor | from Isidore | gift of Isis | Blessed Righteous Isidore |
Sylvester | from Latin | forest | Saint Sylvester, Pope |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Alexander | from Greek | defender |
1. Holy Martyr Alexander, Bishop 2. Holy Martyr Alexander Skalsky, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Aristarch | from Greek | best boss | Holy Martyr Aristarchus of Alamea, Bishop |
Artem / Artemy | from Greek | healthy, unharmed | Apostle from 70 Artem of Listria, bishop |
Arkhip | from Greek | chief rider | Apostle from 70 Archippus |
Afanasy | from Greek | immortal | Venerable Athanasius of Syandemsky, Vologda |
Denis | from Greek Dionysus | God of fertility and winemaking | Holy Martyr Dionysius the Areopagite of Athens, Bishop |
Efim | from Greek Euthymius | pious | Venerable Martyr Euthymius of Vatopedi, abbot |
Zosim | from Greek | heading out | Venerable Martyr Zosimus of Cilicia, hermit |
Joseph / Osip | biblical | God will multiply | Apostle from 70 Joseph Barsabas |
Carp | from Greek | fetus | Apostle from 70 Carp |
Clement / Klim |
from Greek / from Latin |
grapevine / gracious | Apostle Clement from 70, Bishop of Rome |
Kondrat / Kondratiy | from Greek | square, broad shouldered | Apostle from 70 Kondrat of Athens |
Luke | from Latin | light | Apostle Luke 70 |
Mark | from Latin | hammer | Apostle from 70 Mark John the Evangelist, bishop |
Nikolai | from Greek | conqueror of nations | Holy Martyr Nikolai Maslov, priest (new martyr) |
Ostap | from Greek Eustathius | stable | Saint Eustathius the First of Serbia, Archbishop |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Holy Martyr Pavel Filitsyn, priest (new martyr) |
Prokhor | from Greek | started singing | Apostle from 70 Prochorus of Nicomedia, bishop |
Rodion | from Greek Herodion | hero, heroic | Apostle from 70 Herodion of Patras, bishop |
Semyon | from Simeon | listening |
1. Apostle from 70 Simeon of Jerusalem 2. Apostle from 70 Simeon Niger |
Stepan | from Greek Stefan | crown, diadem |
1. Apostle from 70 Stephen the First Martyr, Archdeacon 2. Holy Martyr Stefan Ponomarev, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Terenty | Roman family name | smooth, polite | Apostle from 70 Terentius of Iconice, bishop |
Timofey | from Greek | God-worshipping | Apostle from 70 Timothy of Ephesus, bishop |
Trofim | from Greek | breadwinner | Apostle Trophim from 70 |
Thaddeus | from Greek Theodore | gift of God | Apostle Thaddeus 70 |
Philip | from Greek | someone who loves horses |
1. Apostle Philip from 70 2. Holy Martyr Philip Grigoriev, Archpriest |
Yakov | from the biblical Jacob | hot on the heels | Apostle from 70 James |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Gregory | from Greek | awake | Venerable Gregory of Akritsky |
Joseph / Osip | biblical | God will multiply | Martyr Joseph Bespalov (new martyr) |
Matvey | from New Testament Matthew | bestowed by God | Martyr Matthew Gusev (new martyr) |
Novel | from Latin | Roman |
1. Venerable Martyr Romanus of Carpenisium 2. Holy Martyr Romanus the Lacedaemonian |
Sergey | from Etruscan | highly respected | Holy Martyr Sergius Lavrov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Thomas | biblical | twin | Saint Thomas |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Anton | From Greek or Latin | Holy Martyr Anton of Egypt | |
Victor | from Latin | winner | Holy Martyr Viktor Usov, priest (new martyr) |
Vladimir | from Old Russian | the one who owns the world | Holy Martyr Vladimir Pasternatsky, Archpriest |
Georgy / Egor | from Greek | tiller | Rev. George Hozevit |
Gregory | from Greek | awake | Saint-like martyr Gregory of Pechersk, wonderworker |
Dmitriy | from Greek | belonging to Demeter | Holy Martyr Demetrius Plyshevsky, priest |
Eugene | from Greek | noble | Martyr Eugene |
Emelyan | from Greek | affectionate, flattering | Venerable Emilian of Kizicheskiy, Venerable |
Ilya | biblical | My God is Yahweh | Venerable Elijah of Egypt |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Saint Michael Rozov, priest (new martyr) |
Julian / Julius | Roman family name | — | Holy Martyr Julian of Egypt, abbot |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Zakhar | from the biblical Zechariah | memory of the Lord / man | Martyr Zachary |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Holy Martyr Pavel Nikolsky, priest (new martyr) |
Panteley | from Greek | all-merciful | Holy Martyr Panteleimon |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Saint Peter of Sebaste, bishop |
Philip | from Greek | someone who loves horses | Philip II (Fedor Kolychev) Metropolitan of Moscow and All Rus' |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Anatoly | from Greek | resident of Anatolia | Holy Martyr Anatoly Grisyuk, Metropolitan (New Martyr) |
Gregory | from Greek | awake | Saint Gregory of Nyssa, bishop |
Zinovy | from Greek | one who lives according to the will of Zeus | Holy Martyr Zinovy (New Martyr) |
Makar | from Greek | blissful, happy | Venerable Macarius of Pisemsky |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Venerable Pavel Obnorsky (Kovelsky) |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Holy Martyr Peter Uspensky, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Vitaly | from Latin | vital | Venerable Vitaly of Gazsky |
Vladimir | from Old Russian | the one who owns the world | Holy Martyr Vladimir Fokin, priest (new martyr) |
Joseph / Osip | biblical | God will multiply | Saint Joseph of Cappadocia |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Saint Klopsky (Novgorod) |
Nikolai | from Greek | conqueror of nations | Holy Martyr Nicholas Matsievsky, priest (new martyr) |
from Greek Stefan | crown, diadem | Holy Righteous Stephen | |
Terenty | Roman family name | smooth, polite | Holy Martyr Terentius |
Fedor | from Greek | God's gift | Holy Martyr Theodore Antipin, priest |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Afanasy | from Greek | immortal | Holy Martyr Athanasius |
Maksim | from Latin | greatest | Rev. Maxim Kavsokalivit |
Nikifor | from Greek | the one who brings victory | Venerable Nikifor |
Peter | from Greek | stone, rock | Holy Martyr Peter Absalomite (Aniysky) |
Yakov | from the biblical Jacob | hot on the heels | Venerable James of Nizibia, Bishop |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Adam | biblical | Human | Reverend Adam |
Andrey | from Greek | courageous | Righteous Andrew |
Aristarch | from Greek | best boss | Righteous Aristarchus |
Benjamin | from Hebrew Benjamin | son of the right hand, beloved son | Reverend Benjamin |
David | from Hebrew | Darling | Reverend David |
from biblical John | God's mercy | Confessor John Kevroletin, hieroschemamonk (new martyr) | |
Ilya | biblical | My God is Yahweh | Reverend Elijah |
Joseph / Osip | biblical | God will multiply | Venerable Joseph of Raifa (Analitin) |
Isaac | biblical | he will laugh | Reverend Isaac |
Makar | from Greek | blissful, happy | Venerable Macarius |
Mark | from Latin | hammer | Reverend Mark |
Moses | biblical | one who was pulled out of the water | Reverend Moses |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Reverend Paul |
Savva | from Aramaic | old man | Reverend Savva |
Sergey | from Etruscan | highly respected | Venerable Sergius |
Stepan | from Greek Stefan | crown, diadem | Reverend Stephen |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Varlaam | from Chaldean | God's Son | Venerable Varlaam of Arkhangelsk (Keretsky) |
Gabriel | from the biblical Gabriel | God is my strength | Venerable Gabriel of Serbia |
Ivan | from biblical John | God's mercy | Venerable John Kushchnik |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Holy Martyr Mikhail Samsonov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Venerable Paul of Thebes |
Prokhor | from Greek | started singing | Venerable Prokhor of Pshinsky |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Anton | From Greek or Latin | entering into battle, opposing |
1. Reverend Anthony Great 2. Venerable Anthony of Dymsky 3. Venerable Anthony of Krasnokholmsky |
Victor | from Latin | winner | Holy Martyr Victor Evropeytsev, priest (new martyr) |
Georgy / |
from Greek | tiller | Martyr George |
Ivan | from biblical John | God's mercy | Saint John of Rostov, bishop |
Paul | from Latin | small, junior | Holy Martyr Pavel Uspensky, priest (new martyr) |
Name | Origin | Meaning | Patron Saint |
Alexander | from Greek | defender | Holy Martyr Alexander Rusinov, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Afanasy | from Greek | immortal |
1. Saint A\Athanasius the Great 2. Venerable Athanasius of Sandem 3. Righteous Afanasy Navolotsky |
Vladimir | from Old Russian | the one who owns the world | Holy Martyr Vladimir Zubkovich, Archpriest (New Martyr) |
Dmitriy | from Greek | belonging to Demeter | Reverend Dmitry |
Eugene | from Greek | noble | Holy Martyr Eugene of Isadsky, priest (new martyr) |
Emelyan | from Greek | affectionate, flattering | Venerable Emelian |
Ephraim | from Semitic Ephraim | prolific | Saint Ephraim of Milas, bishop |
Hilarion | from Greek | funny | Venerable Hilarion |
Kirill | from Greek | Lord | Saint Cyril of Radonezh |
Maksim | from Latin | greatest | Saint Maximus the New |
Michael | biblical | Who's like God | Holy Martyr Mikhail Kargopolov, priest (new martyr) |
Nikolai | from Greek | conqueror of nations | Holy Martyr Nicholas Krasovsky, priest (new martyr) |
Sergey | from Etruscan | highly respected | Holy Martyr Sergius Lebedev, priest (new martyr) |
Video: Is it possible to give a child a name not according to the church calendar? Priest Igor Silchenkov
The tradition of naming a child in honor of a saint goes back centuries - in Rus' it appeared after the adoption of Orthodoxy. It was believed that a person who bears the name of a saint has a close connection with him and even adopts some of his good qualities and strength. Moreover, parents, giving a child a name in honor of a powerful saint, count on the fact that this saint will be in everything life path the baby will protect him from the dark forces of evil, will be his guardian angel. A name in honor of a particular canonized saint was chosen by parents or a clergyman according to the Saints, or Monthly Book - a list of names of canonized saints, compiled by months and dates. In the Saints, or in the Orthodox church calendar, each date is a church holiday, or a day of remembrance of a saint. Almost every day of the year is the day of remembrance of at least one saint, and in some cases there may be up to several dozen of them on the same date. The same name in the Orthodox church calendar corresponds to several dates at once - on these days the person named in honor of the saint celebrates his name day.
Names according to the calendar in the church calendar
The church calendar is an inexhaustible source of names even for modern parents who are not always true believers and Christians who observe all traditions. The fact is that the list of names of saints currently contains more than 1000 names of very different origins. Among them there are names of Slavic and Greek origin, Latin and Hebrew names. Many names from the Saints are currently an anachronism, but in last years There has been a tendency to name a child with a rare, little-used name. In the event that parents want to choose a rare and unusual name, The Saints are a wonderful source of inspiration.
How to choose the right name for a child according to the Saints?
According to the rules, parents choose a name for their child according to the Saints, based on his date of birth. Most often they look at which saints are commemorated on the child’s birthday, but it is permissible to choose a name among the names of saints whose memory is celebrated on the eighth day from the child’s birth. This tradition is connected with the fact that in ancient times it was on the eighth day that the child’s naming celebration was held. If there are no suitable names that fall on the child’s birthday, as well as on the eighth day from the day of his birth, then we can choose a name from those that fall on the fortieth day from the child’s birth. This tradition is connected with the fact that it was on the fortieth day that the child was brought to the temple for baptism. As an exception, a child can be named after a particularly revered saint in the family.
There are significantly more male names in the Saints than female ones. Therefore, girls can be named after a male saint, if there is a usable analogue male name in the female version: so, if the date of birth of a girl falls on the day of remembrance of St. Eugene (Victor, Alexandra, Anastasia, Apollinaria), then it is permissible to name her Eugene (Victoria, Alexandra, Anastasia, Polina) in honor of a male saint, choosing him as a patron for child.
According to popular beliefs, May boys are one of the most stubborn but purposeful children with strong character. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the days of the holy Great Martyr George the Victorious and the Apostle John fall in May. These saints themselves were people of exceptional spiritual strength. In this regard, it is not surprising that babies born on Orthodox holidays are distinguished by their strong character.
Back in the 12-13th century, shortly after the Baptism of Rus', the tradition of naming children in honor of revered righteous people was already widespread. It is believed that a child named after a holy righteous Christian will have a role model in front of him all his life. The patron saint will help you make a difficult decision at a crossroads and will illuminate the path through life.
Choosing a name is a big decision
When preparing for childbirth, expectant mothers devote a lot of time to choosing a name for the child. There is a great temptation to name your son an original and memorable name. But we need to understand how responsible this decision will be. The name you give your child will carry him throughout his life, and, more importantly, to stand before God. It is no coincidence that since ancient times the names were borne sacred meaning, which is why during the sacrament of baptism so much attention is paid to choosing a name for Christmastide.
If you know for sure that your child will be born in May, you need to choose a name for the boy in advance. Usually in Rus' names were chosen according to the calendar. The child was named after the name day closest to his birthday. In May Orthodox name days there are a lot, so you can safely open the list and choose. Another option is to contact church calendar. You can also discuss this issue with your spiritual mentor.
Matching name and character
Names have a great influence on a child's character. This is not only the choice of a protective angel that will always protect your child from adversity, but also a serious event that in some way determines the fate of a person. Name days in May offer many options for strong and strong-willed names for a boy. Let's look at some of them, as well as what characteristics they carry for a boy.
- George is a name of Greek origin, meaning “farmer”.
the 6th of May The memory of St. George the Victorious (one of the most revered holy great martyrs in Orthodoxy) is traditionally honored. Georgy can be described as an attentive listener, good and true friend. He is diligent and responsible, devoid of rancor.
- Gregory is a name also of Greek origin. Means "not sleeping."
One of the oldest Christian names, identified with the qualities of an ideal Christian. Gregory is characterized by the ability to stand up for himself and for his ideals of justice. As a child, the boy Gregory studies the world with curiosity, and as he grows up, he knows how to weigh his words so as not to offend people.
- Ivan is a common Orthodox name, derived from the Hebrew "John", which means "merciful of God."
May 21st Orthodox Christians all over the world pay respect to the memory of John the Theologian, the closest follower to Christ, who did not abandon Him even during the crucifixion. Ivan is an active boy, with a great will and difficult character. One can definitely say about the Ivanovs that the saying “To be born in May means to toil all your life” is true. Such people are open, always ready to help, honor traditions and foundations, and with fortitude endure all trials along the way.
- Paul is a name of Latin origin meaning “small.”
Pavels are usually sociable and moral people. Such a boy in childhood observes the prohibitions of his parents. Growing up, he becomes a homebody, calmly moving towards his goal.
- Kirill - among the ancient Greeks this meant “lord”, and from Persian it meant “sun”.
May 24 celebrate the memorable day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who gave literature to the inhabitants ancient Rus'. The boy, whose name is Kirill, is characterized by curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. He does not succumb to the influence of others, but chooses his own path.
Boy's name according to the calendar
In the Orthodox month book there are many options for how to name a boy in accordance with the date of his birthday. Each day in the May calendar has several male names, so future parents should not have problems choosing. Traditionally, the name was determined according to the calendar as follows:
- or on the birthday of a child;
- or on the eighth day from birth;
- or on the fortieth day from birth, when it is necessary to perform the sacrament of baptism.
Mother and father have at least fifteen alternatives to choose from. Important point, which must be taken into account - some Orthodox names in the world have a slightly different form. For example, someone named Dionysius at baptism, whose Angel days fall on the 4th, 19th, 25th and 31st, will be called Denis in the world. The situation is the same with Yegor, whose baptismal form according to the calendar is George.
Boys' names by date of birth
Below we provide a list of Angel days in May so that you can choose a name for your newborn baby boy according to the calendar:
As you can see, there are a lot of options. If you are guided by the criteria that we talked about above when determining names according to the calendar, then three dates are highlighted, and then the child’s name is selected. The main thing here is the desire of the parents, but in case of difficulty, they can turn to a spiritual mentor or priest who will baptize the baby to choose a different name.
Choosing a name according to the Orthodox calendar
When deciding what to name their son, many turn to the calendar of Orthodox holidays to find a holy righteous patron for the child. This the right decision, which we have already talked about. There are several major Orthodox holidays in May, the proximity of which to the birth of your child will help you decide on your future name.
- May 6 – memory of St. George the Victorious. You can name your son Georgy or Yegor.
- May 8 – memory of the Apostle Mark.
- May 10 – memory of the holy martyr Simeon. The son can be called Semyon.
- May 13 – memory of Jacob Zabedeev. The modern version of the name is Yakov.
- May 15 – memory of St. Athanasius the Great. Also the day of the discovery of the relics of the passion-bearers Boris and Gleb. At baptism they were given the names Roman and David, which have been very common in recent years.
- May 21 – memory of John the Theologian. It is customary to call boys born on this day Ivan.
- May 24 is the day of remembrance of Saints Cyril and Methodius. In addition, since Cyril’s name in the world was Constantine, you can name your son that way.
These righteous people left a significant mark on the history of Orthodoxy. If one of them becomes the Patron Saint of your baby, he will always be accompanied by light and good luck in life.
The name, like a guiding star, accompanies a person throughout his life. Therefore, parents pay great attention to choosing a name in Russian for their baby.
After all, whether it will contribute to happiness and success or cause contradictions depends on how it is combined with the influence of planets and constellations, in consonance with the surname and patronymic. Below is full list holy church names in Russian for boys in alphabetical order with an interpretation of their meaning, which will help parents make a choice.
Should you name your baby according to the calendar of Christian names or the church calendar and why?
In Russia there is orthodox calendar or calendar, which lists all the names for each day of the year, indicating the heavenly patron.
It is believed that if they give the name of the saint whose memorial day falls on the baby’s birthday, then he becomes the patron or Guardian Angel of the child, helps and protects him in life. For this reason, parents, when choosing a beautiful Russian men's or female name for for the little one, they turn specifically to the calendar.
A complete list of how to name boys according to the calendar alphabetically, their meanings
- Adam– earth, man (Heb.). A person with this name is characterized by tall moral principles, determination, nobility, gratitude, incredible willpower. They can withdraw into themselves and are not very sociable.
- Alexander– protector of people (Greek). Signs of the name are willpower, nobility, courage, sociability, excellent leadership qualities. They look for support within themselves. Instability of character.
- Alexy– protector (Greek). Reliability and tenderness, integrity of character, respect for family values - these traits are determined by the name. Wounded pride.
- Anatoly– eastern (Greek). High intelligence, sociability, balance, health and sexuality. They can perform unpredictable and inexplicable actions.
- Valery- cheerful, strong (lat.). A sense of humor, curiosity, activity, optimism are the main features. Egocentrism, instability in friendship.
- Basil– royal (Greek). Broad-mindedness, lightness, love for the earth and animals. Exceptional intelligence and mental strength. Some passivity and suspicion.
- Benjamin- son of the most beloved of wives (Heb.). Gentleness and non-conflict character. A penchant for collecting. They may seek solace in alcohol.
- Victor– winner (lat.). Trustworthiness, fairness, thoroughness. High intelligence and efficiency make it possible to achieve success in any field. High impulsiveness and ardor. If they are not fulfilled, they become addicted to alcohol.
- Vitaly– life (lat.). Great zest for life, sociability. Amorousness.
- Vladimir- owner of the world (glory). The name itself gives the power of love and recognition. Breadth of soul, enormous capacity for work, nobility. Risk-taking, adventurism.
- Vladislav- (glory). Dignity, firmness, tact. Tendency to show off, pomposity.
- Vsevolod- owning everything (glory). Talent, sociability, sociability. They can hold grudges and selfishness for a long time.
- Vyacheslav- great glory (glory). Gentleness, devotion, sociability, high diligence, a very developed sense of justice. Hot temper.
- Gennady– noble (Greek). Calmness, balance, perseverance, thoroughness and accuracy, nobility.
- Georgiy– farmer (Greek). Purposefulness, responsibility, commitment to family values. Extraordinary intelligence and courage. Tendency to arrogance.
- Hermann– half-blooded (lat.). High intuition, communication skills. Tendency to tell fictitious stories about oneself, hot temper.
- Gleb- tall, big (glorious). Courage, originality, thoroughness. They make excellent leaders. They can give the impression of an outwardly gloomy person.
- Gregory– awake (Greek). Vitality, sociability, perseverance, intelligence. The name protects from external negativity. Hotness can determine a difficult fate.
- Dmitriy– god of fertility (Greek). Persistence, ingenuity, sociability, good nature. They can easily become discouraged due to failures.
- Eugene– noble (Greek). Passionate, reliable, committed, tolerant. Possible psychopathic behavior.
- Efimy– complacent (Greek). Extreme hard work, huge reserves vitality. Very high sensitivity.
- Zachary- memory of the Lord (Heb.). Focus, hospitality, hard work, love for people. They may become depressed.
- Jacob– second by birth (Hebrew). Masculinity, determination, speed, sociability.
- Ignatius– unknown (lat.). Great abilities allow you to achieve success in any profession. Prone to violence and cunning.
- Igor- defender of God (glorified). Resilience, conscientiousness, sociability. They may overestimate themselves.
- Or me- the fortress of the Lord (Heb.). Restraint, balance, attentiveness to others, purposefulness.
People with this name very often achieve significant success in their careers.
- Innocent– innocent (lat.). Modesty, richness of spiritual life. Vulnerability.
- John– the grace of God (Heb.). Sensitivity, purposefulness. The name reveals the breadth of nature. Tightness.
- Joseph– multiplied (Heb.). Firmness, determination, success. Closedness.
- Hippolytus– (Greek). Hardness, mobility. Touchiness, lack of flexibility.
- Ismail– hears God (Heb.). Giftedness, brightness.
- Julius– Iuliev (Greek). Ambition, balance, activity.
- Kirill– sun (pers.). Curiosity, success. The name enhances loyalty to the family.
- Konstantin– hard, permanent (vb.). Responsibility, integrity, sense of humor. Tends to be fickle.
- Lavrentiy– laurel (lat.). Leadership, sociability. Stubbornness.
- a lion- kindness, gentleness. Stealth.
- Leonid- like a lion (Greek). Kindness, sociability, efficiency.
- Leonty- lion (Greek). Intelligence, good leaders. Arrogance.
- Macarius– blessed (Greek). Sociability, diligence, non-conflict. Changeability of character.
- Maksim– greatest (lat.). Self-sufficiency, restraint, intuition, easily establishes contacts with any people.
- Mark– dry, fading (lat.). Sobriety, practicality, unpretentiousness. Shows self-centeredness.
- Michael- like GOD (Heb.). Uniqueness, success. The name enhances the strong-willed qualities of a person.
- Modest– modest (lat.). Activity, willpower, sexuality, endurance. An inferiority complex may develop.
- Mstislav- defender of glory (glory). Internal energy, rich imagination. Self-love.
- Nahum– consolation (Heb.). Calmness, complaisance. Excessive touchiness.
- Nikita– winner (Greek). Leadership, creativity, intelligence. Lack of constancy in affections.
- Nikolai– conquering people (Greek). Kindness, tenderness, hard work, reliability. Tendency to do unexpected things.
- Oleg- saint (glorified). The soul of the company, activity, determination. Ruthlessness towards offenders.
- Paul– small (lat.). Kindness, responsiveness, hard work. Jealousy.
- Peter– stone (Greek). Good nature, truthfulness, intuition. High vulnerability.
- Plato– wide (Greek). High intelligence, efficiency, self-sufficiency. Self-love.
- Rodion– heroic (Greek). Independence, sociability, self-control. Ambition.
- Novel- Roman (lat.). Reasonableness, willpower, efficiency, wonderful mind. Closedness.
- Savva– wine (Heb.). Integrity, spirituality, uncompromisingness. Craving for loneliness.
- Seraphim– fiery (Heb.). Communication skills, ambition, fairness.
- Sergius– highly revered (lat.). Conscientiousness, communication skills, openness. Tendency to idealize.
- Stephen– crown (Greek). An excellent leader, an optimist. Not vindictive. Amorous.
- Tarasiy– exciting (Greek). Willpower, innovative thinking, energy. Takes a long time to make a decision.
- Timofey– worshiper of God (Greek). The ability to have deep feelings, independence, mobility. Emotional instability.
- Felix– happy (lat.). Intelligence, independence, communication skills. Snobbery.
- Theodore- God's gift (Greek). Good nature, balance, easygoingness, reliability. It is necessary to develop a sense of humor.
- Phillip- lover of horses (old). Purposefulness, justice, constancy. Excessive temper.
- Filaret– lover of virtues (Greek). Demanding, purposeful, amorous.
- Khariton– gracious (Greek). Reliability, morality, authority.
- Yuri- farmer (glorified). Originality, firmness, good nature, intuition.
By choosing a name according to the calendar, you can superimpose the energy and character of the name onto the zodiac properties of the newborn’s nature so that they are consonant and do not contradict each other. Then a Guardian Angel will help the person, and the stars will shine brighter.