Male names in Russia. Slavic female names: history and meanings

At any cultural tradition names are the most significant carrier of information about the development of the people. Names of Slavic origin, for example, have practically disappeared from everyday life. They were replaced by Greek, Roman, Jewish and other names, which are alien in their essence for the descendants of the ancient Russians. This happened immediately after Russia adopted Christianity.

The names of pagan gods, whom at that time they wanted to eradicate not only from the everyday cultural life of the people, but also from their thoughts, were often part of male names. An example of this is the ancient Slavic name Jaromir (Yarilo + mir). Magi and heroes, who bore the names of the primordially Slavic, were baptized by force and called them, as the Christian faith prescribes.

Russian and Slavic names: what's the difference?

V last decade many parents began to call their children by Slavic names. However, few people understand that the same Ivan (Slavic name, it would seem) has nothing to do with Ancient Rus... This name came to us along with baptism, and it came from the Hebrew "John". This also includes popular in recent times the names Zakhar, Matvey, Daniel and Yegor. If you look closely at such names, you can find their analogies in other cultures. For example, Luke in English is pronounced as Luke, Daniel as Daniel. The same Matvey has overseas counterparts (Matthew).

If you remember that Slavic, that is pagan names at one time they tried to eradicate forever, then we can conclude that they cannot have analogues in other cultures, because at that time (1st century AD), the assimilation of peoples did not reach a large scale. So, how do you recognize the ancient Slavic name? How to distinguish it from the biblical, forcibly grafted onto the Slavs names? We will find out about it right now.

What names can be considered primordially Slavic

Almost all men Slavic names have features by which they can be distinguished from aliens. The presence of a part of the word in them is exclusively Slavic origin and is this sign. Slavic names of boys have always carried sacred meaning, so the combination of their components was not just a set of words for the sake of euphony. It is also noted that the sound "A" was used very rarely among the Slavs, especially in proper names. Most often it was replaced by more soft sounds"I", "I" and "E".

As an example, we will give two names, one of which is considered by many to be Slavic: Casimir and Parnassus. If you pay close attention to their components, you can see that Casimir was formed from two words: “show”, “seems” and “world”, which means “showing the world”. But the name Parnas can be disassembled for a long time, gazing intently at the combination of letters and listening to the sequence of sounds. Even if we assume that it is based on concepts such as "steam" and "us", no semantic content this combination does not.

Slavic names for men with two stems

Another noticeable sign by which male Slavic names can be identified are two bases. One part indicated qualities (fame, strength, power, power, and so on). But the second part symbolized the object or sphere of their influence (peace, everything, good, army, gods, etc.). By the way, double names were received by boys who reached a certain age, and before that they had the right to bear a family, simple name. One-part names were also left to the smerds - representatives of the poor class in Russia. It is worth talking in more detail about the naming order of boys and men among the Slavs, since there were many subtleties in this matter.

How names were given in Russia

As mentioned earlier, the Slavic names of boys carried a special meaning and were the key to the essence of man. To prevent the baby from being “spoiled” (to jinx, etc.), at birth he was given a false name. As a rule, it was ugly or did not characterize the boy with better side... The list of Slavic male names of this group includes Kriv, Zloba, Nekras, Durnik or Fool.

When the child grew up and men began to be engaged in his upbringing, he was given a new name that reflected the character of the boy and suited his main purpose. It was also believed that such names endowed a man with certain qualities. Future warriors (warriors, heroes) were most often called compound names: Ratibor, Yaropolk, Dobrognev. Hunters were given names such as Brave, Stoyan, or even called the Wolf, Eagle, etc. Future cultists, and often warriors, were called names with the particle "holy". The newly popular Slavic name Svyatoslav also belongs to them. Farmers and livestock breeders got simpler names: Tishilo, Putyata, Yarilka or Tikhomir. Often, the Slavs gave a middle name to boys, depending on the order of their birth.

There was no system of inheritance of names adopted by other peoples among the Slavs. Therefore, there were no generic names until the adoption of Christianity. But even after that, for several centuries, even the noble ruling families did not practice the naming of boys in honor of grandfathers and fathers.

Slavic names borrowed from animals and plants

Nowadays, few people want to give their son the male Slavic names formed from the names of animals and plants, since they sound, to say the least, strange. The fact is that the peasants (namely, they most often called their children that way) did not change the names of the animals in any way. The sons in this case were called Hares, Ruffs, Pikes, Catfish and Nuts. These Russian (Slavic) names gave the world the surnames Zaitsev, Shchukin and Ershov.

What was born in a row: ordinal names

This group of names is not as numerous and diverse as others. Despite the fact that there were many children in Slavic families, not all descendants were born as boys, and therefore the calculation was carried out up to a maximum of the tenth son. The eldest heir was usually called Pervak ​​or Pervush, the next - Vtorak, followed by Tretyak, Chetverik, Osmin, etc. According to research, ordinal names were often given to children at birth, and then replaced by a new, characteristic two-part name. Nevertheless, in the family of an already matured man, they continued to be called by an ordinal name. Exist in modern Russia and surnames derived from them: Tretyakov, for example.

Formidable Slavic names

In Russia, as in any other state of that time, there were military units. If a boy after seven years was distinguished by strength, tall or endurance, he was sent to be raised by the vigilantes. Their names were given taking into account their purpose and contained information about the invincibility of the body, the severity and steadfastness of the spirit of the warrior. Just like the Greek, Slavic names of this category have meanings such as "stone", "rock".

An example is the names Dubynya (strong as an oak), Gorislav (glorious and at the same time mighty as a mountain), Gorynya and Svyatogor. Names such as Mstislav (glorious for his revenge), Winter (harsh, cold and calculating) and Dobrognev (anger for good) were considered especially formidable.

The names with the particle "bude", "paco" and "howl" spoke about the constant readiness to defend the life of their people. The long-forgotten Slavic names Pakoslav and Budeva can be cited as an example.

Male Slavic names for the glory of the gods

In the families of Slavic clergy (magi), children, as a rule, followed in the footsteps of their father, that is, they continued his Vedic path to spiritual cooperation with higher powers... Their names most often contain particles of "glory", "light", "wise" and "love". By the way, it was this group of names that was the most extensive and diverse, because you can love and praise anyone a natural phenomenon, gods and aspects of everyday life.

These names include Bogoslav (glorifying God), Jaromir (the world belonging to Yarilo, the sun god), Velimudr (possessing great wisdom), Lubomir ( loving world), Svetozar (illuminating with light). This also includes such names as Lyubomysl (loving to think), Bogomysl (thinking about God), Dobroslav (glorifying good), and many others.

How the Slavs called the boys with disabilities

If a boy with physical disabilities (lame, hunchbacked) was born in a Slavic family, at first he was given the usual, "family" name: Nevzor (not seeing others), Nekras and Koschey (skinny, bony). Upon reaching the age of seven, he was given a new name reflecting his condition. As a rule, boys with disabilities and congenital disabilities grew up to be humble, flexible, spiritually rich people. It was these qualities that were reflected in their names. Also, the Slavs tried to give inferior youth names that could give them strength. They consisted of the particles "god", "sweet", "love", "brother" and "sister".

Examples of such names: Blagoslav (glorifying good, kindness), Bogomil (dear to God), Lyubomil, Bratomil and Sestromil (dear to brothers and sisters), Gostemil (dear to guests) and Krasimir (beautiful and peaceful). Thus, the Slavs compensated for the child's physical deficiencies, turning them into spiritual, mental virtues.

However, it happened that a completely healthy man in the physical sense of the name was changed to negative. An example of this is the name Fornication (unlucky, dissolute, fornicator) and Malice or Malice (evil).

Slavic names of rulers, governors and other nobility

Since the ruling strata of the population possessed some kind of benefits, the main feature of their names is the particles "power", "hold" and "led". The formation of such names could not take place without such particles as "peace" and "glory". Since these names were most often mentioned in various historical sources, several dozen of their variations have survived to this day.

Some of the most popular Slavic names are: Vladimir, Vladislav, Vsevolod, Vseslav and Izyaslav. They are still in demand, and they are called sons. Slightly less well-known, and therefore common, are such names as Velislav, Berislav, Berimir and Borimir, Mecheslav, Wenceslav and Velimir. Voivods and famous warriors to whom principalities or volosts were bestowed most often bore names with the "regiment" particle. It is worth remembering the legendary Slavic warriors of Svyatopolk and Yaropolk.

Fake names and nicknames among the Slavs

In addition to names, it was the norm among the Slavs to give nicknames to boys. They did this for several reasons. First, with the help of nicknames, they hoped to ward off evil from the baby. Children's nicknames, or fake names, as mentioned at the beginning of the article, carried a negative meaning. In those days, people believed that evil people or the spirits will not turn on Nekras, the Fool or Kriva. This tradition also existed after the adoption of Christianity. Remember at least the fabulous Ivan the Fool. The same was practiced with names for little girls. An example is also known to everyone from childhood - this is Princess Nesmeyana. The nicknames include the well-known literary works the name Mazai, meaning "smeared".

Nicknames, unlike real names, were known to everyone. Thus, if evil was plotted against the boy (and according to the beliefs of the Slavs, for this it was necessary to know the name of the victim), it simply did not overtake him.

Beautiful names for boys are Slavic. Examples of

V last years male Slavic names are becoming more in demand. Of course, there is no talk of a complete rejection of Greek, Hebrew and Roman. However, returning to their roots plays big role in cultural self-determination. For naming children in accordance with the traditions of their ancestors, such beautiful Slavic names as Svyatoslav, Yaroslav, Vladimir and Vsevolod are increasingly used. Less often you can hear such names as Kazimir, Svyatogor and Dobrynya. The most popular are the names that belong to famous people: actors, musicians and politicians.

For example, the name Vladimir for several decades has been competing with the variants borrowed from other cultures, Alexander, Daniil and Alexey.

In conclusion, I would like to say that not all names that are unknowingly classified as Slavic are in fact such. Be careful when choosing a name for your child. Contact historical sources and try to find signs of their Slavic origin on your own.

As it is believed in many cultures, the name, given to man at birth, to some extent determines it further destiny... This belief was widespread among the ancient Slavs, about whose female names we will talk below.

Naming Traditions in Ancient Rus

So reverent and serious attitude to the name often led to the fact that the person was named twice. One name was known to everyone and served only for communication, while the other, genuine, was not given out to anyone except the closest people, relatives and friends. Old Russian female names were also selected in accordance with this rule. Keeping them secret helped to save the girls from the influence of evil spirits and harmful witchcraft. At the same time, the first name was often, as it is now called, negative. That is, it reflected any negative traits or concepts. This type includes such old Russian female names, like Malice, Nekrasa, Kriva and so on. It was believed that if you call a girl that way, then the property of the name will just depart from her. And in life the opposite will prevail, positive value... They gave this name at birth. The second naming took place when the child reached the age of majority (by ancient standards). That is, this name was part of a person's initiation into adult life, to society. The name was chosen most often on the basis of the personal qualities that the girl possessed. An example here is such old Russian female names as Veselina and Goluba.

Sources of names

The Slavs had a huge variety of names. In general, all old Russian female names known today, as well as male names, can be divided into five groups. The first includes those that are the names of representatives of the animal world or plants. For example, according to this principle, the girl could be called Pike, Swan, and so on. The second group includes a list of old Russian female names that are numerals. That is, the girl could be called the serial number of her birth in the family - Pervush, Osmaya, etc. The third group suggests that the name was given to the child in honor of some goddess. For example, in honor of the goddess of beauty, the baby could be called Lada. The fourth type includes names based on personal qualities person. We have given examples of this type above. And finally, the fifth group is the most beautiful old Russian female names, since they consist of two bases. What makes them especially capacious, sonorous, intricate and filled with deep meaning. The names of Yaroslav, Tikhomir, Radimir can serve as vivid examples here. From this group, by transformation and reduction, a subgroup of simpler names has emerged. Svyatosha, Milonega, Yarilka are typical examples of this kind. Of all the listed groups, Old Russian female names for the child were freely chosen, although hypothetically, the Magi could have some influence on the choice.

Old Russian names after Christianization

The Church, expanding its influence in the Slavic lands, fought earnestly against everything pagan. It is not surprising, therefore, that after Christianization most of the original Russian names were forgotten and replaced by Greco-Roman and Hebrew variants. There were even lists of names banned by the church and to be forgotten. First of all, it included, of course, the names of pagan gods (Lada, for example). In addition, those worn by the leaders of the pagan opposition were prohibited. This was done so that the memory of them was erased. After all, if no one names a child in honor of the disgraced sorcerer, then after the death of the hero of the opposition, no one will remember. Unfortunately, today the original Slavic names in Russia are very rare. Old Russian female names, like male ones, have not yet left the shadows. Although the traditional Christian versions were replaced by Soviet ones, now Western European forms are also actively penetrating.

Old Russian female names and their meanings

Below we provide a list of the main Slavic female names. Due to centuries of oblivion, not all old Russian female names have come down to us. Therefore, it will not be possible to draw up a complete list. But those that remain will be quite enough for our article.

B

Bazhena. This name means the desired child.

Beloslava. The name, consisting of two bases - "white" and "glory". Accordingly, its meaning is "white glory".

Berislava. Means "taking glory."

Blagoslav. Means a woman who glorifies goodness, kindness. Can be reduced to Blagan, Blagin.

Bogdan. Literally means “ given by god". The shortened form is Bozena.

Bozhidar. Almost the same as Bogdana, only not given, but given by God.

Boleslav. it beautiful name should be understood as "glorified".

Borislav. This is the name of a woman fighting for glory.

Boyana. This word in the old days was called storytellers telling legends and myths.

Bratislava. The name is based on two roots: "to fight" and "to praise".

Bronislava. Means defender of glory.

Bryachislav. The first root in the name is closely related in meaning to the modern verb "rattle". Accordingly, the meaning of the name is "to rattle", that is, "to praise on a musical instrument."

V

Velimir. The name comes from the concept of "big world".

Velislav. Literally - "the most glorious". Abbreviated versions: Vela, Wieliczka.

Wenceslas. "Crowned with glory" or "wearing a wreath of glory."

Faith. A name preserved by tradition. Doesn't need translation.

Veselina. Speaks about the cheerfulness and cheerful disposition of her bearer. The female form of the name Veselin. The name Vesela has the same meaning.

G

Gorislav. Means "burning in glory."

Gradislava. This name means a woman who protects glory.

Granislava. The literal meaning is "glory enhancing".

D

Daren. Denotes "donated". Darina, Dara are abbreviated versions of this name.

Dobromila. Obviously, he speaks of a kind and sweet woman.

Dragomir. Literally - "the one that is dearer than the world."

Dobroslava. This name can be interpreted as "glorifying kindness." An alternative meaning is "good reputation".

F

Zhdana. The name means the expected child.

Z

Zvenislava. In modern Russian it means “announcing glory”.

Goldflower. The abbreviated form is Zlata. Obviously, semantically correlated with gold.

AND

Spark. Comes from the word "sincere".

Languor. Speaks of longing. As expected, reflects the fact of difficult childbirth.

TO

Casimir. This name is now common in Poland. Means "showing the world."

Krasimir. "A beautiful and peaceful woman" - this is how this name is understood today. Abbreviated to be Krasa.

L

Lada. The name of the goddess of beauty, love, marriage and peace.

Love. A name that is still popular in Russia today. The Lyubava form is also known. Doesn't need any comments.

Lubomyr. Says that the bearer of the name loves the world.

M

Malusha. Another form is Mlada. Means small or junior.

Milan. Means just a nice woman. Such forms as Milena, Milava, Umila, Militsa, Milada are also known.

Mstislav. Means a woman who glorifies revenge.

Miroslava. This is the name of a woman who glorifies the world.

H

Hope. The Hope form is also known. The name is well known today.

Nekras. A striking example"Negative" name. Means an ugly woman.

NS

Putislav. The meaning of the name is "praising intelligently."

Putimir. This name consists of two pillars: "peace" and "put" (meaning "mind"). Accordingly, he can be understood as "a woman with a peaceful mind."

R

Radislav. It translates as "caring for the glory."

Radmila. This is the name of a sweet and caring woman.

Rodislav. This name means "glorifying the race."

WITH

Svetislava. A name that means "glorifying the light." An alternative form is Svetoslava.

Svetlana. A common name today. He talks about the spiritual lordship of his bearer.

Svetozar. The literal meaning is illuminating with light.

Stanimir. A name that translates into modern Russian as "setting the world."

T

Hardworld. Obviously, the name comes from the phrase "solid peace", which can also be understood as "stronghold of the world."

Tverdislav. Similar to the previous name, but with a shift from peace to glory.

Creator of the world. This is the name of a woman who creates, creates the world.

H

Chaslava. It means a woman who is waiting, that is, waiting for fame. Other known form this name is Cheslava.

Cernava. So they call a black-haired or dark-skinned woman. Another form of the name is Chernavka.

I AM

Yaroslav. This name is not forgotten even today, although it is found mainly in the masculine form. Means a woman who glorifies Yarilo - the sun god.

Jaromira. The interpretation of the name gives an idea of ​​the solar world or the world of Yarila.

The name determines the fate of a person. This is the key to his inner self. After all, it is no accident that in Russia a person had two names, one - false, for everyone, and the other - secret, only for the person himself and his very close people. This tradition existed as a protection from unkind spirits and unkind people. Often the first Slavic name was deliberately unattractive (Kriv, Nekras, Zloba), for even greater protection from the unkind. After all, without having a key to the essence of a person, it is much more difficult to do evil. The rite of the second naming was carried out in adolescence, when the main character traits were formed. The name was given on the basis of these features. Slavic names abounded in their diversity, there were groups of names:
1) Names from animal and flora(Pike, Ruff, Hare, Wolf, Eagle, Nut, Borsch)
2) Names in order of birth (Pervusha, Vtorak, Tretyak)
3) Names of gods and goddesses (Lada, Yarilo)
4) Names by human qualities(Brave, Stoyan)
5) And the main group of names is two-basic (Svyatoslav, Dobrozhir, Tikhomir, Ratibor, Yaropolk, Gostomysl, Velimudr, Vsevolod, Bogdan, Dobrogneva, Lyubomila, Mirolyub, Svetozar) and their derivatives (Svyatosha, Dobrynya, Tishilo, Ratisha, Putyata, Yarilka , Miloneg).
From the listed names, it is easy to trace the process of creating a derivative name: the second part is cut off from the dibasic one and a suffix or ending is added (-neg, -lo, -ta, -tka, -sha, -yata, -nya, -ka).
Example: Svyatoslav: Holy + sha = Holy.
Undoubtedly, the names of people carry a significant part of the culture and traditions of the entire nation. In Russia, with the advent of Christianity, Slavic names almost completely fell into oblivion. There were lists of Slavic names prohibited by the church. Why this happened is easy to guess. One part of the names (Lada, Yarilo) were the names of the Slavic gods, the owners of the second part were people who, even after the Christianization of Russia, tried to restore the cult and traditions (magi, heroes). Today in Russia only 5% of children call Slavic names, which undoubtedly impoverishes the already meager Slavic culture.
The purpose of this section is not only to introduce the concept of true Russian names into the people. An example is the following, not a rare situation: The girl was named Gorislava. Neighbors wondering unusual name they say: "Couldn't call it Ira or Katya in Russian" - no comment. The main goal of this section is to create a global list of Slavic names (by the way, by the way, the largest in Runet) with an attempt to determine the meanings of names and comparisons with historical and legendary personalities.

LIST OF SLAVIC NAMES

Bazhen is a welcome child, a welcome one.
The names have the same meaning: Bazhai, Bazhan. From these names surnames arose: Bazhanov, Bazhenov, Bazhutin.
Bazhena is a female form named after Bazhen.
Beloslav - From BEL - white, to turn white and SLAV - to glorify.
Abbreviated names: Belyay, Belyan. From these names surnames arose: Belov, Belyshev, Belyaev.
Beloslava is a female form named after Beloslav.
Abbreviated name: Belyana
Berimir is the one who cares about the world.
Berislav is the one who takes glory, who cares about the glory.
Berislav is a female form named after Berislav.
Blagoslav - glorifying kindness.
Blagoslav is a female form named after Blagoslav.
Abbreviated names: Blagana, Blagana, Blagina.
Fornication - dissolute, unprofitable.
One of the "negative" names. From this name a surname arose: Bludov. Historical personality: Fornication - voivode Yaropolk Svyatoslavich.
Bogdan is a child given by God.
The name has the same meaning: Bozhko. From these names surnames arose: Bogdanin, Bogdanov, Bogdashkin, Bozhkov.
Bogdana is a female form named after Bogdan.
Abbreviated name: Bozena.
God-lover is a lover of God.
From this name the surname arose: Bogolyubov.
Bogomil - dear to God.
The name has the same meaning: Bohumil.
Bozhidar - a gift from God.
Bozhidara is a female form named after Bozhidar.
Boleslav is famous.
Historical personality: Boleslav I - Polish king.
Boleslav is a female form named after Boleslav.
Borimir is a fighter for peace, a peacemaker.
Borislav is a fighter for glory.
Abbreviated names: Boris, Borya. From these names surnames arose: Borin, Boriskin, Borisov, Borisikhin, Borichev, Borishchev. Historical personality: Boris Vseslavich Polotsky - Prince of Polotsk, the founder of the Drutsk princes.
Borislav is a female form named after Borislav.
Borsch is one of the personified names of the plant world.
In a literal translation: Borsch - tops of plants. From this name comes the surname Borshchev.
Boyan is a storyteller.
The name was formed from the verb: bayat - speak, tell, chant. The names have the same meaning: Bayan, Bayan. From these names came the surname: Bayanov. Legendary personality: songwriter - Boyan.
Boyana is a female form named after Boyan.
Bratislava - From BROTHERS - to fight and GLORY - to praise.
Bratislava is a female form named after Bratislava.
Bronislav is the protector of glory, the guardian of glory.
The name has the same meaning: Branislav. Abbreviated name: Armor.
Bronislava is a female form named after Bronislav.
Bryachislav - from BRYACHI - to rattle and GLORY - to praise
Historical personality: Bryachislav Izyaslavich - Prince of Polotsk.
Budimir is a peacemaker.
From this name came the surnames: Budilov, Budishchev.
Velimir is a big world.
Velimir is a female form named after Velimir.
Velimudr is knowledgeable.
Velislav is a great glory, the most glorious.
Velislav is a female form named after Velislav.
Abbreviated names: Vela, Velika, Wieliczka.
Wenceslas - dedicated to glory, crowned with glory.
Wenceslas is a female form named after Wenceslas.
Faith is faith, faithful.
Veselin is cheerful, cheerful.
Veselina is a female form named after Veselin.
The name has the same meaning: Vesela.
Vladimir is the owner of the world.
The name has the same meaning: Volodimer. From this name came the surnames: Vladimirov, Vladimirsky, Volodimerov, Volodin, Volodichev. Historical personality: Vladimir I Svyatoslavich Red Sun - Prince of Novgorod, Grand Duke Kievsky.
Vladimir - female form named after Vladimir.
Vladislav is the owner of fame.
The name has the same meaning: Volodislav. Abbreviated name: Vlad. Historical personality: Volodislav is the son of Igor Rurikovich.
Vladislav is a female form named after Vladislav.
Abbreviated name: Vlada.
Vojislav is a glorious warrior.
Abbreviated names: Voilo, Warrior. From these names came the surnames: Voeikov, Voinikov, Voinov. Historical personality: Voin Vasilyevich - from the clan of the Yaroslavl princes.
Vojislav is a female form named after Vojislav.
Wolf is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Volkov.
Raven is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surnames: Voronikhin, Voronov.
Vorotislav - returning glory.
Vsevolod is the ruler of the people, who owns everything.
From this name came the surnames: Vsevolodov, Vsevolozhsky. Historical personality: Vsevolod I Yaroslavich - Prince of Pereyaslavsky, Chernigov, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Everyone is loved by everyone.
Vsemila is a female form named Vsemil.
Vseslav is all-glorious, famous.
The name has the same meaning: Seslav. From this name came the surname: Seslavin.
Historical personality: Vseslav Bryachislavich Polotsky - Prince of Polotsk, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Vseslav is a female form named after Vseslav.
Vtorak is the second son in the family.
The names have the same meaning: Second, Vtorush. From these names came the surnames: Vtorov, Vtorushin.
Vyacheslav is the most glorious, the most glorious.
The name has the same meaning: Vatslav, Vysheslav. From these names came the surnames: Vysheslavtsev, Vyacheslavlev, Vyacheslavov. Historical personality: Vyacheslav Vladimirovich - Prince of Smolensk, Turovsky, Pereyaslavsky, Vyshgorodsky, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Vyachko is a legendary person: Vyachko is the progenitor of the Vyatichi.
Godoslav - The name has the same meaning: Godlav. Historical figure: Godoslav - the prince of the Bodrici-rarog.
Goluba is meek.
From this name came the surnames: Golubin, Golubushkin
Gorazd is skillful, capable.
The surname Gorazdov originated from this name.
Gorislav is fiery, burning in glory.
Gorislava is a female form named after Gorislav.
Gorynya is like a mountain, huge, indestructible.
Legendary personality: hero - Gorynya.
Gostemil - dear to another (guest).
From this name came the surname: Gostemilov.
Gostomysl - thinking about another (guest).
Historical personality: Gostomysl - Prince of Novgorod.
Gradimir is the preserving world.
Gradislav - the guardian of glory.
Gradislav is a female form named after Gradislav.
Granislav - Improving Glory.
Granislav is a female form named after Granislav.
Gremislav is famous.
Gudislav is a renowned musician who trumpets glory.
Abbreviated name: Gudim. From these names came the surname: Gudimov.
Daren - donated.
Daren is a female form named after Daren.
The names have the same meaning: Darina, Dara.
Nine is the ninth son in the family.
From this name came the surnames: Devyatkin, Devyatkov, Devyatov.
Dobrogneva
Dobrolub is kind and loving.
From this name came the surname: Dobrolyubov.
Kind - kind and sweet.
Dobromila is a female form named after Dobromil.
Dobromir is kind and peaceful.
Abbreviated names: Dobrynya, Dobrysha. From these names came the surnames: Dobrynin, Dobryshin. Legendary personality: hero - Dobrynya.
Dobromir is a female form named after Dobromir.
Good thinking is kind and reasonable.
From this name came the surname: Dobromyslov.
Dobroslav - glorifying kindness.
Dobroslava is a female form named after Dobroslav.
Dobrozhir
Domazhir -
Domaslav - glorifying relatives.
Abbreviated name: Domash - your own, dear. From this name came the surname: Domashov.
Dragomir is dearer than the world.
Dragomir is a female form named after Dragomir.
Dubynya is like an oak, indestructible.
Legendary personality: hero - Dubynya.
The squad is a comrade.
The common name has the same meaning: Friend. From these names came the surnames: Druzhinin, Drugov, Drunin.
Ruff -
one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Ershov.
Lark is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Zhavoronkov.
Zhdan is a long-awaited child.
From this name came the surname: Zhdanov.
Zhdana is a female form named after Zhdan.
Zhiznomir - living in the world.
Zhirovit
Zhiroslav
Hare is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Zaitsev.
Zvenislava - announcing the glory.
Winter is harsh and merciless.
From this name came the surname: Zimin. Legendary personality: Ataman Zima from Razin's army.
Zlatomir is a golden world.
Goldflower - gold-colored.
Abbreviated name: Zlata.
Malice is one of the "negative" names.
From this name came the names: Zlobin, Zlovidov, Zlydnev.
Surrender
Izyaslav - who took glory.
Historical personality: Izyaslav Vladimirovich - Prince of Polotsk, the founder of the Polotsk princes.
Sincere - sincere.
The name has the same meaning: Spark.
Iskra is a female form named after Iskra.
Istislav - glorifying the truth.
Istoma - languishing (possibly associated with difficult childbirth).
From this name came the surnames: Istomin, Istomov.
Casimir - showing the world.
Casimir is a female form named after Casimir.
Koschey is thin, bony.
From this name came the surnames: Koshcheev, Kashchenko.
Krasimir - beautiful and peaceful
Krasimira is a female form named after Krasimir.
Abbreviated name: Krasa.
Curve is one of the "negative" names.
From this name comes the surname: Krivov.
Lada - beloved, dear.
The name of the Slavic Goddess of love, beauty and marriage.
Ladimir is good at peace.
Ladislav - glorifying Lada (love).
Swan is the personified name of the animal world.
The name has the same meaning: Lybid. From this name comes the surname - Lebedev. Legendary personality: Lybid is the sister of the founders of the city of Kiev.
Ludislav
Luchezar is a luminous ray.
Love - beloved.
From this name came the surname: Lyubimov.
Love is beloved.
The name has the same meaning: Lyubava. From these names came the surnames: Lyubavin, Lyubimtsev, Lyubavin, Lyubin, Lyubushin, Lyubimin.
Loved - beloved, dear.
Lubomyr is a loving world.
Lubomyr is a female form named after Lubomyr.
Lyubomysl - loving to think.
Lyuboslav - loving glory.
Lyudmil is dear to people.
Lyudmila is a female form named after Lyudmila.
Historical personality: Ludmila is a Czech princess.
Mal - small, junior.
The name has the same meaning: Small, Mladen. From these names came the surnames: Maleev, Malenkov, Maltsov, Malyshev. Historical personality: Mal is a Drevlyan prince.
Malusha is a female form named after Mal.
The name has the same meaning: Mlada. From these names came the surname: Malushin. Historical personality: Malusha is the wife of Syatoslav Igorevich, mother of Vladimir Svyatoslavich.
Mechislav is a glorifying sword.
Milan is cute.
The name has the same meaning: Milen. From these names came the surnames: Milanov, Milenov.
Milana is a female form named after Milan.
The names have the same meaning: Milava, Milada, Milena, Militsa, Umila. From these names came the surname: Milavin. Historical personality: Umila is the daughter of Gostomysl.
Milovan - caressing, caring.
Milorad is sweet and joyful.
From this name came the surname: Miloradovich.
Miloslav is sweetly praising.
Abbreviated name: Miloneg.
Miloslav is a female form named after Miloslav.
Peaceful - peace-loving.
From this name came the surname: Mirolyubov.
Miroslav is a glorifying world.
Miroslava - female form named after Miroslav.
Silent - taciturn, taciturn.
From this name came the surname: Molchanov.
Mstislav - glorifying revenge.
Historical personality: Mstislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Tmutorakansky, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Mstislav is a female form named after Mstislav.
Hope is hope.
The name has the same meaning: Hope.
Nevzor is one of the "negative" names.
From this name the surname Nevzorov originated.
Nekras is one of the "negative" names.
From this name came the surname: Nekrasov.
Nekras is a female form named after Nekras.
Eagle is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Orlov.
The eighth is the eighth child in the family.
The name has the same meaning: Osmusha. From these names came the surnames: Osmanov, Osmerkin, Osmov.
Ostromir
Peredslava - The name Predslava has the same meaning. Historical personality: Predslava is the wife of Svyatoslav Igorevich, mother of Yaropolk Svyatoslavich.
Peresvet is very light.
Historical personality: Peresvet is a warrior of the Kulikovo battle.
Putimir - reasonable and peaceful
Putislav - praising intelligently.
The name has the same meaning: Putyata. From these names came the surnames: Putilov, Putilin, Putin, Putyatin. Historical personality: Putyata is a Kiev governor.
Radigost - caring for the other (guest).
Radimir - caring about the world.
The name has the same meaning: Radomir. Abbreviated name: Radim. From these names came the surnames: Radilov, Radimov, Radishchev. Legendary personality: Radim is the progenitor of the Radimichi.
Radimir is a female form named after Radimir.
The name has the same meaning: Radomir.
Radislav - one who cares about fame.
The name has the same meaning: Radoslaw.
Radislav is a female form named after Radislav.
Radmila is caring and sweet.
Radosveta - sanctifying with joy.
Joy is joy, happiness.
The name has the same meaning: Rada.
Reasonable - reasonable, reasonable.
From this name came the surname: Razin. Historical personality: Razumnik - a disciple of Cyril and Methodius.
Ratibor is a defender.
Ratmir is the protector of the world.
Rodislav is a glorifying family.
Rostislav - increasing glory
Historical personality: Rostislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Rostov, Vladimir-Volynsky; Tmutarakansky; The ancestor of the princes of Galitsky and Volynsky.
Rostislav - female form named after Rostislav.
Sbyslava
Svetislav is a glorifying light.
The name has the same meaning: Svetoslav.
Svetislava is a female form named after Svetislav.
Svetlan is bright, pure in soul.
Svetlana is a female form named after Svetlana.
Svetovid - seeing light, perspicacious.
The name has the same meaning: Sventovid. The name of the West Slavic God.
Svetozar - illuminating with light.
Svetozar is a female form named after Svetozar.
The name has the same meaning: Svetlozara.
Svyatogor is indestructible holiness.
Legendary personality: Svyatogor is an epic hero.
Svyatopolk is the leader of the sacred army.
Historical personality: Svyatopolk I Yaropolkovich - Grand Duke of Kiev.
Svyatoslav is a sacred glory.
Abbreviated name: Saint. Historical personality: Svyatoslav I Igorevich - Prince of Novgorod and Grand Duke of Kiev.
Svyatoslav is a female form named after Svyatoslav.
Slawomir is peace-glorious.
Nightingale is the personified name of the animal world.
From this name came the names: Nightingale, Soloviev. Legendary personality: Solovey Budimirovich is a hero from epics.
Catfish is the personified name of the animal world.
Snezhana is white-haired and cold.
Stanimir is the one who establishes the world.
Stanimir is a female form named after Stanimir.
Stanislav is the glorious one.
From this name came the surname: Stanischev. Historical personality: Stanislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Smolensky.
Stanislav is a female form named after Stanislav.
Stoyan is strong, unbending.
Sudimir
Sudislav
Tverdimir - from Tverd - firm and WORLD - peaceful, peace.
Tverdislav - from Tverd - firm and SLAV - to praise.
From this name came the surnames: Tverdilov, Tverdislavov, Tverdislavlev.
Creator - creating the world.
Tihomir is quiet and peaceful.
From this name came the surname: Tikhomirov.
Tihomir - female form named after Tihomir.
Tour is the personified name of the animal world.
Legendary personality: Tur is the founder of the city of Turov.
Brave is brave.
Chaslav is a glory-eager.
Chaslava is a female form named after Chaslav.
The name has the same meaning: Cheslava.
Cernava - dark-haired, dark-skinned
The name has the same meaning: Chernavka. From these names came the surnames: Chernavin, Chernavkin.
Pike is the personified name of the animal world.
Yarilo is the sun.
Yarilo - God of fruits in the form of the sun. From this name came the surname: Yarilin.
Jaromir is a sunny world.
Yaropolk is the leader of the solar army.
Historical personality: Yaropolk I Svyatoslavich - Grand Duke of Kiev.
Yaroslav - praising Yarila.
From this name came the surname: Yaroslavov. Historical personality: Yaroslav I Vladimirovich - Prince of Rostov, Prince of Novgorod, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Yaroslav is a female form named after Yaroslav.

In our century, educated parents are paying more and more attention to Old Church Slavonic names, giving them to their children. Thus, they return to the original Russian traditions that have existed in Russia since ancient times in naming.

Old names in modern times

New sound in modern world acquire the names Vsevolod and Milana, Mstislav and Darina. Such a lively interest of modern residents in rare, long-not used ancient Slavic names is not surprising. In search of a name for their child, parents strive to make it original and unusual. In addition, they want the baby's name to be sonorous and poetic. In addition to the above, modern parents do not forget about the content and semantics of the name.

The Slavs used to give children names with meaning. At the same time, the name must necessarily have only positive energy. Old Slavic names meet all these requirements. The Russian person intuitively understands their meaning, and the beauty with which they sound will not leave anyone indifferent. Ancient Slavic names (male and female) today are considered by many parents as best names for their children.

Double naming

The name determines the fate of a person. It serves as the key to his inner peace... The ancients Slavic tribes adhered to the tradition of double naming, which was based on belief in the mystical connection of the name and the person to whom it was given. It is no coincidence that in Russia a person had two names: one was false - for everyone, and the other secret - for himself and his closest friends. The names were supposed to serve as protection from evil spirits and bad people... Often the first false Slavic name was given purposefully unattractive (Malice, Kriv, Byaka, Nekras, Likho).

It was believed that the name is the key to a person, and not knowing the essence of the individual, it is much more difficult for him to harm. The rite of secondary naming was performed upon reaching adolescence, when all the main character traits had already been formed, and it was already possible to judge which of them had become predominant. Based on these features, a name was given.

The meaning of ancient Slavic names

Let's analyze the ancient Slavic names and their meanings.

By its meaning Old Church Slavonic names conditionally subdivided into several groups:

• Names repeating the names of various representatives of flora and fauna (Raven, Oryol, Orekh). Such names are not used these days.
• Old Church Slavonic names reflecting various traits human character... For example, Veselin can mean "cheerful", and the name Brave means "courageous"; Dobrolub means loving and kind. In the modern world, it is the names of this group that have become widespread.
• Names referring to various mythical characters. These were mainly the names of the ancients Slavic deities... So, Lada is the Slavic goddess of love, Yarilo - slavic god sun.
• Interesting Old Slavic names indicating the order in which the child was born in the family. The logic was quite simple. The first son received the name Pervush, the second son was called Vtorak, the third - Tretyak, and so on.

For a more detailed study of Slavic names and their meanings, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following lists.

Names of men

Old Slavic names of boys and their meaning:

1. Bazhan. This means "the desired child."
2. Belogov. It means "enlightened".
3. Borislav. This is believed to be interpreted as "fighting for glory."
4. Vsevolod. The interpretation of this name is "who knows everything."
5. Luchezar. Means radiant, luminous.
6. Radimir. The meaning of the name is "rejoicing in the world, caring for the world."
7. Svyatopolk. It means "in command of the holy regiment."
8. Trojan. It means "third".
9. Chedomir. Derived from two words: "world" and "child".
10. Yarema. Explained as "yoked."

Names of women

Ancient Slavic female names and their meanings:

• Bogdana means "given by God himself";
• Faith. It means "faithfulness";
• Dalina. Means far;
• Christmas tree. The name comes from the name of the tree - spruce;
• Zlata. It is interpreted as "the color of gold";
• Lana. Means "sweetheart";
• Lyubin. Derived from the word "love";
• Milada. Is interpreted as "cute";
• Stanislav. “Holy glory” has a meaning;
• Yuna. Derived from the word "young".

Dibasic Slavic names and their meaning

One of the largest groups of Slavic names is names with two stems. Until the era of Christianity began, the names of this group were most widespread.

Many of the names used by the Slavs are composed of 2 stems. For example, the name Lubomyr is considered to be derived from two words - "love" and "peace", and Boguslav is a derivative from "glory" and "god". It sounds very nice and at the same time the name has an absolutely clear meaning. It is thanks to this that Slavic names have received a second life in our time, becoming very popular among contemporaries. Most often, these names are given to children who were born in Poland, Ukraine, Serbia, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic.

These names are divided into two subgroups. The main group includes two main names (Tikhomir, Svyatoslav, Ratibor, Dobrozhir, Gostomysl, Yaropolk, Velimudr, Vsevolod, Bogdan, Lyubomila, Dobrogneva), and the second contains names derived from the names of the main group (Dobrynya, Svyatosha, Ratisha, Tishilo , Yarilka, Putyata, Miloneg).

History of Slavic names

Without a doubt, a significant part is associated with the names of people. cultural life and the formation folk traditions... In Russia, with the advent of Christianity, the ancient Slavic names were almost completely forgotten. There were even lists of ancient Slavic names that were banned Christian Church... It is quite easy to guess the reasons for what is happening. Some of the names (Yarilo, Lada) were the names of the ancient Slavic gods. Some of them made up a group of people who, after the baptism of Rus, tried to help restore the Old Church Slavonic cult and traditions.

Slavic names are not in vogue in Russia today. They are called only 5% of babies born. This makes Russian culture poorer. Although the ancient Slavic names (male) are undoubtedly true Russian.

The propaganda of Slavic names is of great importance. People are trying to preserve ancient Slavic female names, full list which can be found in special editions.

Some of the names are very popular. Let's talk about two of them.

The meaning of the name Bogdan

Bogdan often becomes a late and only boy, the fruit of long expectations. Parents, sometimes regardless of their desire, call those children who were born after great anxieties and fears. In infancy, Bogdan is prone to colds. At the same time, the mother, worried about the health of her son, does not refuse him anything.

The role of the father in upbringing is almost not felt. The child becomes attached to the mother, jealous of her for almost everyone. He lacks sociability, so he does not converge with peers very well. V school years Bogdan is friends with children who enjoy authority with his comrades, who are able to intercede for him. Subject grades are not very good. Despite the presence of abilities, the natural laziness to which Bogdan is prone interferes. True, over time, laziness dulls.

In adulthood, Bogdan is a calm man with good self-esteem. He strives to get well in life, to make a career. A man is able to reach heights in any particular profession that does not require improvisation.

In the family, Bogdan wants to be an indisputable leader. He likes wives that are submissive, allowing him to show his power. Such categoricalness is manifested not only in relations with his wife, but also in communication with colleagues and acquaintances. Having gone through alcohol, Bogdan can get involved in an argument for any reason, without listening to the arguments of his opponent. However, he has many character traits that turn him into good husband... For example, he persists in looking for additional income, being economical in spending. Bogdan loves to spend money only on vacation for the whole family.

The meaning of the name Radmila

Parents continue to pick up Radmila - this is one of the most popular names. It combines 2 words: joyful and sweet. Despite the fact that the girl has a calm character, you should not leave her alone. Due to her developed imagination, it is not easy to predict what will come to her mind when she is on her own.

Prone to colds and other infectious diseases. Absolutely not afraid of dogs. Regardless of the size of the animals, he boldly approaches them and strokes them.

Radmila asks adults a variety of different, sometimes childish questions that can be puzzling. He enjoys communicating with strangers, as parents are sometimes tired of answering numerous questions. Radmila maintains sociability for the rest of her life. Radmila does not always feel pleasure when she finds herself in the center of someone else's attention. She is inherently imperious, but this trait makes her a potential leader.

Such ancient Russian names were spread to this moment... Names have long history, and, apparently, it will not end soon.

In ancient times, when the parents of their daughter wanted to name her by some name, they always looked first at the manifestations of her character traits, abilities, craving for something specific. Slavic names for girls must necessarily reflect not only the purpose of the future mother and wife, but also some of their personal traits. If today they choose more names of foreign origin or from the Orthodox namebook, then earlier the Slavs relied on ritualism and even religious traditions. Beautiful Slavic names for girls were given in accordance with the personality. In the rite of naming, the key role was played by the sorcerer conducting the rite. Subsequently, traditions changed, Slavic Russian names for girls began to be assigned at birth. Perhaps now is the time when we can use rare Slavic names for girls?

According to culturologists, the Slavs have never given names to their children since infancy. In addition, it was in their habit to always name children or an adult already with several names. We still have folk custom give nicknames to a person who already has a first name, patronymic and family name.

Beautiful Slavic names for girls were assigned in adolescence. Destiny for every girl played special role... It could be both personal and generic, having family or community significance.

The first feature includes the personal qualities of the child, which will remain with him for life. And to the second - social role future mother, wife, continuer of the family. There is also a third meaning - this is the identification of a girl with one or another Goddess of the Slavic pantheon of gods. Then the girl could involuntarily attract divine power to herself by her own name alone.

Features of Slavic names for girls

A primordially Slavic name for a girl is considered a rare occurrence today. People are already accustomed to calling girls names of Greek, Germanic, Roman and even English origin. It is also popular today to name children from a church Orthodox namebook. But most of them include Jewish names, mixing with Greek versions.

The Slavs' female names could be complex or simple, depending on the clan structure, traditions and personal characteristics, time of birth, circumstances. In Russian fairy tales, even today you can find names consisting of an additional nickname: Elena the Wise, Marya the Artisan, Kroshechka Khavroshechka, Varvara Krasa - Long Scythe, Ognevushka-Poskakushka and others. In addition to fairy tales, in the life of the Slavs there were names: Zarina Svetlaya, Dobronrava Solnechnaya, Yasun Krasa, Dobryana Kunitsa, Vedana Groza and others.

In addition to double names that spoke about the special qualities of a child, or a special time and hour when he was born, the children of the Slavs were also called secret names. Only the priest conducting the ceremony, the Native Gods, who blessed the child and the girl herself, knew about this name. This name should not be told to anyone, because there is a belief that with its help evil forces can completely take possession of the person wearing secret name... The function of such a name is to protect against various failures, attacks evil spirits, from the evil eye and other negativity.

If they wanted to mark the girl with the power of any Goddess, then they assigned her name either with the root of the name of the Goddess, or calling the child with an integral divine name. Such a relationship with the Native Gods allowed the future girl to get married successfully, the future mother - to conceive, give birth and raise good children, the future wife - to be true friend, a companion and bearer to her husband.

SLAVIC NAME

What Slavic name could you have if you lived in those distant times?

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There are the following names associated with the pantheon of Slavic goddesses: Lada, Zara (derived from Zarya Zaryanitsa), Maria (derived from Mary, Morena), Dana. Female names derived from the Gods: Yarila, Velesynya, Perunitsa.

How to choose Slavic names for girls

Rare Slavic names for girls (Vedagora, Gorislava and others) or common ones, such as Lada, for example, were chosen according to a special principle. It consisted of the following:

1. A temporary name was given. From the moment of birth and up to a certain age, girls were not given any specific name, but simply called - "child", "child", "girl", or even a number - "second", "third".
2. Name After observing what inclinations the girl showed, what she was striving for, the parents could help choose a name.
3. Honor ancestors. Could call the girl by the name of any outstanding personality in the family. For example, great-grandmothers-needlewomen, grandmothers-witches and so on.
4. Honor the ancestral God. When a certain god or deities were worshiped in the Slavic family, their names could also be passed on to people at the request of parents or grown-up children.

The naming was carried out for the girl so as to first "wash away" in a lake where there is no flowing water (for boys - in a river with flowing water) a temporary name. Then they "attached" a new name through a special ritual. The sorcerer performed the ceremony at the temple. All this is done when the girl reaches a certain age:

• if the qualities of a future magician, priestess, witch were manifested, then the girl was named at 9 years old;
• when a child shows all the qualities of a warrior, or she was a princess - at the age of 12;
• children showing the qualities of other classes - at the age of 16.

Slavic mythology describes a number of conditions in the traditions of the ancient Slavs, when children or adults could be renamed. This usually happened if a new name "from the language of the people" was already fixed in a girl or woman, given the passage of a particular stage of life, where she showed herself in a special way. Could conduct new rituals of naming when, for some reason, earlier given name did not fit. It rarely happens when a temporary name is assigned to a child for life.

The name of a girl, girl, woman must necessarily sound! Our ancestors, the Slavs, believed that the spoken words had magic power, including this applied to names that were repeated aloud more often than other words. A future mother, wife must necessarily receive strength from Nature, the elements, the gods, in order to safely create virtuous offspring. Slavic culture The Russian North has largely preserved these traditions in many ways, especially in the villages.

Slavic female names

AGNIA - fiery, enlightened
ALLA - highly spiritual
BAZHENA - desired
BELA - white, clean
BELOYARA - light
BORISLAVA - fighting for glory
BOYANA - fighting, courageous
BRATISLAVA - taking glory
BELOSLAVA - glorifying purity
BELYANA - enlightened, spiritualized
God-lover - loving her gods
VLASYA - long-haired
VELENA - imperative
SPRING - spring
VLADA - okay, slim
VELMIRA (Velemira) - ruler of the world (people)
VEDANA (Vedeneya, Vedenya) - in charge
VELIMIRA - very peaceful, balanced
FAITH - knowing Ra (sun, primordial Light)
VSESLAVA - all glorifying
GALA - sincere
GALINA - feminine, earthy
DANA (Danuta) - given
DARYANA (Daria) - courageous
DRAGOMIRA (Dorogomila) - dear, sweet to the world (society)
ZLATA (Zlatana) - golden, golden-haired
ZVENISLAVA - calling for glory
ZLATOYARA - ardent, strong as the sun
INNA (Inga) - feminine
KARINA - brown-eyed, rasenka
LYUBAVA (Lyuba, Lyubima, Lyubusha) - favorite
LUDA - human
LUCHEZARA - radiant, illuminating with light
LYUBOYARA - loving Yarila
LYUDMILA - dear to people, humane
MILA (Mlava, Milica) - sweetheart
MIRA (Mirava, Mirana, Miron, Mireta) - peaceful, reconciling
OLESYA - forest
OLGA (Olyana) - playful
OGNESLAVA - glorifying Fire
POLADA - flexible
PEREYASLAVA - took over the glory of her ancestors
RUSYA - fair-haired
RITA - born according to the Law of Birth
Svetana (Light, Light) - light
SNEZHANA (Snezhina) - snowy, white-faced
SVETLANA (Svetlena) - bright, pure soul
FLOWERS - blooming, delicate
YADVIGA - nurse
YANA - courageous
YAROSLAVA - glorifying Yarilu-sun