Māra

The name Māra has a dual etymology. One origin traces back to the Hebrew name 'Miriam' (Mary), meaning 'bitter' or 'sea of bitterness', which became widespread through Christian tradition. In this context, it is a cognate of Mary. The other, distinct origin is from Latvian mythology, where Māra is a powerful goddess, often associated with the earth, fertility, protection, and wealth. She is one of the most important deities in the Latvian pantheon, sometimes seen as a counterpart or aspect of Dievs (God).

Due to these two separate roots, the name carries different connotations depending on the cultural context. In Latvia, the mythological association is very strong, giving the name a deep cultural resonance beyond its Christian usage. The name's popularity in Latvia is largely attributed to this indigenous mythological figure, making it a classic and revered name within the country.