Hajra is a unique and captivating feminine name of Arabic origin. Derived from the root word 'hajar', which means 'to break or strike', Hajra holds significant historical and cultural importance in Islamic tradition.
The name Hajra is strongly associated with the prominent figure in Islam, Hajar al-Aswad, who played a crucial role in the lives of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his sons, Ismail and Ishmael. According to the Quran, Hajar was an Egyptian handmaiden who accompanied Ibrahim on his journey to Mecca. When Ibrahim left her there with their infant son Ismail, she demonstrated extraordinary resilience and resourcefulness. In search of water for her hungry child, Hajar ran back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times until a spring, known as Zamzam, miraculously appeared.
This remarkable story has not only etched Hajra's name in Islamic history but also inspired the ritual of 'Sa'ee', performed by millions of Muslims during the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. Thus, the name Hajra carries immense reverence and admiration among Muslims worldwide.
In addition to its religious significance, Hajra is also deeply rooted in Arabic culture. It is considered a powerful and strong name that reflects the character traits of courage, determination, and perseverance, all of which are embodied by the historic figure Hajar al-Aswad.
As for its popularity beyond the Arab world, Hajra has gained recognition as an intriguing choice among non-Muslims too, drawn to its unique sound and rich historical background. It is not uncommon to find individuals named Hajra in diverse communities across the globe, each carrying a piece of Islamic history within their name.
In conclusion, Hajra stands out as an exceptional feminine name with deep roots in Arabic culture and Islam. Its powerful meaning and historic significance make it a cherished choice among parents seeking a meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Hajra has seen varied popularity over the past few decades in the United States. The earliest record of this name's usage dates back to 1990, with a total of five babies being named Hajra that year.
Between 1990 and 2003, the number of newborn girls named Hajra fluctuated between five and eight per year. However, starting from 2004, there was a notable increase in this name's usage. The highest point was reached in 2017 with twenty births, which is more than double the previous peak.
The trend continued to rise until 2019 when eighteen babies were named Hajra. However, there was a significant drop in 2020 with only nine births, perhaps due to the global pandemic. The numbers rebounded in 2021 with fourteen births and reached another peak of sixteen births in 2023.
Overall, from 1990 to 2023, there have been a total of 267 newborn girls named Hajra in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not be one of the most common names, Hajra has certainly established itself as a unique and recognizable name choice among parents over the past three decades.