Maya

Maya is a feminine name with many meanings and origins. Largely rooted in the Indian philosophical concept of Māyā, Maya means "illusion" or "magic," embracing that which is mystifying and ever-changing. It can also be considered illusion personified, perhaps even representing the frame we view reality through. Maya is sometimes used as an alternative name for Durga, a Hindu warrior goddess usually depicted riding on a lion or tiger. Maya is also another name for Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth. Digging deeper into Maya's divinity, Durga and Lakshmi are considered aspects of the supreme Divine Mother.

Some say Maya is a respelling of the Greek Maia, translating to "good mother" or "foster mother," deepening Maya's maternal vibe. Not only is Maia one of the seven sisters of the Pleiades and mother of Hermes, Maia also exists in Roman mythology as a fertility goddess.

Not stopping there, Maya also flows forth from mayim, a Hebrew word meaning "water," symbolizing the refreshing presence your child will bring. You'll also recognize Maya as the name of the Native American people and civilization of the Yucatán in southeast Mexico. This ancient society had a rich faith system and is known for building extraordinary structures like the Tikal and Chichén Itzá.

There's been some debate in The Bump forums as to Maya's spelling and pronunciation, particularly on how it differs from variants like Maia, Mya, and Mia. We like veggiemo's take: "I think Maya is a beautiful name and you can't go wrong with that spelling."