by Nora Carver

Created on: December 01, 2007   Last Updated: July 25, 2008

When faced with the task of naming our eighth child and youngest daughter, my husband and I were bombarded by friends and loved ones with a myriad of names, some unique, interesting or unusual. The one name that stuck out was Sophia. It brought to mind not only the stunning beauty of such famous figures as Sophia Lauren the actress, but the intelligence and wisdom associated with the classical Greek archetypical woman. But what exactly did the name Sophia mean? After a little research we realized that we had chosen the perfect name for our spunky, curious, intelligent and thoughtful little angel. It was a name fit for a queen, and has been used by several including Queen Sonia of Norway and Sophia Dorothea wife of King George I of Great Britain. Well at least it was apt for our little princess in our opinion.

The name Sophia has been used for centuries. Though it experienced a slight decline in the United States during the 1920's and 30's, it is as popular today as it ever was. It has been recorded by census in English speaking countries since at least the 17th century.

The name is usually credited to the Ancient Greeks during the Hellenistic period meaning "lover of wisdom" but the Hebrew tradition puts the origin of the name at a much earlier date. The beginning of time to be exact. According to Agnostic traditions, which rely heavily on early Hebrew mythology, Sophia was the mother of the universe. It is her "spark" of life that exists in all living things. She also is the consort of God and as such the tri fold element in the Holy trinity. She is sometimes called Sophia Pistis and is considered to be the feminine side of God. Sophia is the voice of, the creative power of, and the translator of the word of God. Pretty heavy stuff huh?

Sophia has been used as both a male and female name though it is more popular in modern use as a feminine name. Though the most common meaning of the name comes from the Greek "wisdom" there are other connotations of the name as well. Other meanings or traits of the name include: righteous, wise, loving, communicative, knowledgeable, protective, giving and truthful. As the patron of all those who are wise, these are the traits that are most associated with wise and knowing men (or women).

The tale of the Saint Sophia of the Greek Orthodox church has been a beacon of hope for generations of women. She is considered the patron saint of widows. According to legend, Saint Sophia was a widow woman from Milan who gave away all her

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