Mawu-Lisa
Mythological deity symbolizing the moon and sun duality in West African Vodun religion
IPA Pronunciation
/ˈmɑː.wuː/
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Syllables
Mawu is derived from the Fon language of the Ewe-Fon people in West Africa, representing the moon goddess associated with creation, fertility, and protection. Historically, Mawu is part of the dual deity Mawu-Lisa, symbolizing balance and harmony between feminine and masculine forces in traditional Vodun beliefs.
Cultural Significance of Mawu
In West African Vodun tradition, Mawu is revered as the moon goddess and a creator deity. She symbolizes nurturing, the feminine divine, and balance in nature. Mawu is often paired with Lisa, the sun god, together embodying cosmic duality and harmony. Her presence in folklore emphasizes respect for nature, cycles of life, and spiritual protection.
Mawu Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Mawu remains a meaningful name in parts of West Africa and among the diaspora, symbolizing heritage and spiritual strength. Though not widely used globally, it has gained interest as a unique unisex name reflecting cultural roots and the divine feminine. Its association with balance and creation appeals to parents seeking a meaningful, unconventional name.
Name Energy & Essence
The name Mawu carries the essence of “Goddess of the moon and creation” from Ewe-Fon (West African) tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In West African Vodun tradition, Mawu is revered as the moon goddess and a creator deity. She symbolizes nurturing, the feminine divine, and balance in nature. Mawu is often paired with Lisa, the sun god, together embodying cosmic duality and harmony. Her presence in folklore emphasizes respect for nature, cycles of life, and spiritual protection.
Mawu Dzogbede
Traditional priestess known for preserving Vodun rituals in Benin
Mawu Adjo
Folkloric figure embodying creation and fertility in Ewe culture
Mawu Kossi
Cultural leader who promoted Ewe traditions during colonial resistance
Mawu Yawo
Noted storyteller preserving oral histories of the Fon people
Mawu Tchio
Historian specializing in West African spiritual beliefs
Mawu Hounmenou
Folklore scholar and author on Vodun mythology
Mawu Akouavi
Ewe cultural ambassador and educator
Mawuena Trebarh
Business Executive
Mawu Kwami
Artist
Mawu Ankomah
Activist
Mawu Kofi
Musician
Mawu Esi
Author
Mawu Dede
Educator
Mawu Agbo
Filmmaker
Mawu Sena
Chef
Mawu and Lisa: The Divine Twins ()
Spirit of the Moon ()
The Balance of Light ()
African Legends: Mawu ()
Celestial Sisters ()
The Creator's Path ()
Moonlight Stories ()
Ewe Tales ()
Mawu
🌐Spanish
Mawu
🌐French
Mawu
🌐German
Mawu
🌐Italian
マウ (Mau)
🌐Japanese
玛乌 (Mǎ wū)
🌐Chinese
ماوو
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Mawu
Mawu is part of the dual deity Mawu-Lisa, representing the moon and sun, illustrating the importance of balance in West African spirituality.
Personality Traits for Mawu
Individuals named Mawu are often seen as balanced, nurturing, and wise. They exude calmness and a protective nature, inspired by the goddess's traits. Creative and harmonious, Mawu personalities tend to be intuitive, empathetic, and deeply connected to their environment and community.
What does the name Mawu mean?
Mawu is a Ewe-Fon (West African) name meaning “Goddess of the moon and creation”. Mawu is derived from the Fon language of the Ewe-Fon people in West Africa, representing the moon goddess associated with creation, fertility, and protection. Historically, Mawu is part of the dual deity Mawu-Lisa, symbolizing balance and harmony between feminine and masculine forces in traditional Vodun beliefs.
How do you pronounce Mawu?
Mawu is pronounced (IPA: /ˈmɑː.wuː/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Mawu?
Popular nicknames for Mawu include: Maw, Wu, Mawi, Maws, Mawu-Boo, MuMu, Wuwu, Mawsy, Mawster, Mawmoo.
Who are famous people named Mawu?
Famous people named Mawu include: , , , , .
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Mawu is a beautiful Ewe-Fon (West African) name meaning “Goddess of the moon and creation”. Mawu is derived from the Fon language of the Ewe-Fon people in West Africa, representing the moon goddess associated with creation, fertility, and protection. Historically, Mawu is part of the dual de...
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