Iemanjá (Mythical Figure)
Central goddess in Yoruba and Afro-Brazilian religions, symbolizing sea, fertility, and motherhood.
IPA Pronunciation
i.eˈmɐ̃.ʒɐ
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Syllables
Iemanja, derived from Yoruba roots, is revered as the goddess of the sea, fertility, and motherhood. Her name signifies 'Mother whose children are like fish,' symbolizing abundance and protection. Historically, she is a central figure in Afro-Brazilian and Caribbean religions, blending African spirituality with local traditions.
Cultural Significance of Iemanja
Iemanja holds profound cultural importance in Afro-Brazilian Candomblé and Umbanda religions as the mother of all Orishas and protector of fishermen and families. Celebrated annually on February 2nd in Brazil, her festivals symbolize renewal, fertility, and the deep connection between people and the sea. She also appears in Caribbean and African diasporic spiritual practices, embodying feminine power and nurturing qualities.
Iemanja Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Iemanja is embraced globally beyond religious contexts, inspiring art, music, and baby names. Her name conveys strength, spirituality, and cultural pride, especially among Afro-descendant communities. While not mainstream, its unique sound and rich heritage attract parents seeking meaningful, culturally resonant names for girls, reflecting a growing appreciation for African-rooted identities worldwide.
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International Variations12
Name Energy & Essence
The name Iemanja carries the essence of “Goddess of the sea and motherhood” from Yoruba tradition. Names beginning with "I" often embody qualities of inspiration, individuality, and intuition.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Iemanja holds profound cultural importance in Afro-Brazilian Candomblé and Umbanda religions as the mother of all Orishas and protector of fishermen and families. Celebrated annually on February 2nd in Brazil, her festivals symbolize renewal, fertility, and the deep connection between people and the sea. She also appears in Caribbean and African diasporic spiritual practices, embodying feminine power and nurturing qualities.
Teresa de Benguela
Leader of a quilombo (escaped slave community) in 18th century Brazil, often associated symbolically with Iemanja's protective spirit.
Mãe Menininha do Gantois
Prominent Candomblé priestess who helped preserve and promote the worship of Iemanja in 20th century Brazil.
Obá Iyá Ominí
Historical priestess and custodian of Yoruba religious traditions emphasizing Iemanja's worship.
Maria de Lourdes
Early Brazilian folklorist who documented Iemanja's cultural festivals.
Olufunmilayo
Yoruba historian who traced the etymology and spiritual significance of Iemanja.
Mama Oxum
Yoruba priestess who contributed to the spread of Iemanja's veneration in the diaspora.
Lola Kemi
Cultural activist promoting African spiritual heritage including Iemanja worship.
Iemanjá Oliveira
Brazilian singer
Yemanja Smith
Visual artist
Iemanja Santos
Writer
Iemanja Rodrigues
Cultural historian
Yemanja Freitas
Dancer
Iemanja Ribeiro
Poet
Yemanja Costa
Actress
Iemanja Lima
Fashion designer
Iemanja: The Sea's Daughter ()
Orishas and Legends ()
The Spirit of the Sea ()
Afro-Brazilian Tales ()
Mysteries of Candomblé ()
Sea Goddess ()
Legends of the Ocean ()
The Water Mother ()
Iemanjá
🌐Spanish
Iemanjá
🌐French
Iemanjá
🌐German
Iemanjá
🌐Italian
イエマンジャ
🌐Japanese
伊曼佳
🌐Chinese
إيمانجا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Iemanja
Iemanja's ocean festivals in Brazil often feature offerings set afloat on the sea, including flowers and candles, symbolizing gratitude and requests for blessings from the sea goddess.
Personality Traits for Iemanja
Individuals named Iemanja are often associated with nurturing qualities, emotional depth, and creativity. They tend to possess a strong protective instinct, empathy, and resilience. This name suggests a harmonious balance between strength and gentleness, inspiring those who bear it to be caring leaders and advocates for family and community.
What does the name Iemanja mean?
Iemanja is a Yoruba name meaning “Goddess of the sea and motherhood”. Iemanja, derived from Yoruba roots, is revered as the goddess of the sea, fertility, and motherhood. Her name signifies 'Mother whose children are like fish,' symbolizing abundance and protection. Historically, she is a central figure in Afro-Brazilian and Caribbean religions, blending African spirituality with local traditions.
How do you pronounce Iemanja?
Iemanja is pronounced (IPA: i.eˈmɐ̃.ʒɐ). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Iemanja?
Popular nicknames for Iemanja include: Yem, Iema, Manja, Yemi, Janja, Emi, Maja, Iemy, Yema, Mani, Iem, Jem.
Who are famous people named Iemanja?
Famous people named Iemanja include: , , , , .
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Iemanja is a beautiful Yoruba name meaning “Goddess of the sea and motherhood”. Iemanja, derived from Yoruba roots, is revered as the goddess of the sea, fertility, and motherhood. Her name signifies 'Mother whose children are like fish,' symbolizing abundance and protection. His...
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