Mithra is a unique and distinctively beautiful name with origins tracing back to ancient Persia, also known as Iran. It is derived from the Old Persian word "Mithra," which was used to refer to the Indo-Iranian deity Mithras.
In the ancient Zoroastrian religion of Persia, Mithra was revered as a god of light, truth, and covenant. He was believed to be the protector of the earth and all its inhabitants, upholding the principles of justice and righteousness. The name Mithra is therefore deeply rooted in spiritual and cultural significance, symbolizing purity, wisdom, and divine protection.
The history of the name Mithra is intertwined with that of the Mithraic cult, a mystery religion that spread throughout the Roman Empire during the 1st to 4th centuries AD. The cult worshipped the god Mithras, who was often depicted as a young man sacrificing a bull, a symbol of creation and renewal. Despite its popularity, little is known about the beliefs and practices of this secretive religion.
Today, Mithra continues to be a name associated with strength, courage, and divine protection, as it has been throughout history. It is a name that carries a rich cultural heritage and a deep spiritual significance, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Mithra experienced a notable increase in popularity between 2014 and 2017, with a significant jump from 22 births in 2014 to 34 births in 2016, followed by an even higher peak of 43 births in 2017. However, since then, the number of annual births with this name has decreased, reaching 15 births in 2023. Overall, there were a total of 293 babies named Mithra between 2009 and 2023.