Ilya is of Russian origin, meaning "the Lord is my God". It is an ancient Slavic name that was popular among early Russian saints and rulers. In Russia, Ilya is often considered a national hero due to the epic poem "The Song of Igor's Campaign", where he appears as a brave warrior defending his land against invaders. The name Ilya has been traditionally used in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, with Saint Ilya being one of the most venerated saints in Russian Orthodoxy. In the West, Ilya is gaining recognition and popularity due to its unique sound and historical significance. It is often associated with strength, courage, and faith.
The name Ilya has seen varied popularity over the decades, with significant spikes occurring recently.