Asma

Asma is a feminine name borrowed from ancient Hebrew and is widely used today in Russia and the countries of the CIS. The name originates from the word "azmu," meaning "high" or "great." In Judaism, Asma is closely linked to the name of the Goddess Mother – Mara (the Earth Mother deity), symbolizing power, holiness, and spiritual elevation. Historically, the name spread around the world through Jewish diaspora, especially from Spain during the period of the Spanish Inquisition, when many Jews emigrated to Italy, from which the name entered other European nations. In Russia, Asma gained recognition and usage relatively recently, primarily among the secular and intellectual circles of the 19th-20th centuries, and in recent years, its popularity has been growing steadily. A girl named Asma is often perceived as strong, intelligent, and possessing a deep inner world. She typically exhibits a developed intellect, original thinking, and a sense of beauty. Her character can be described as balanced, yet she is not afraid to take responsibility or propose bold ideas. She is often inclined to deep thinking and spiritual quests, and she is kind and compassionate. Among the notable bearers of the name Asma are, for example, the Russian supermodel Asma Tarquinsky and her sister, also a model, as well as the Russian actress Asma Abramova. The name gained broader recognition through the TV series "Secrets of the Lost" (also known as "Stargate SG-10"), where the main character was named Asma. Additionally, historical figures like the Russian poet and publicist Asher Shaul Moschkovsky bear this name. The popularity of the name Asma is not high in Russia today, but it is increasing. The name is particularly common in CIS countries, Central Asia, and among people of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. Variants of the name include Asmin, Asmia, Asmuna. Diminutives are Asik, Asenka, Asyunya.