Tekla

Tekla is a female given name typically used in Eastern European countries such as Poland, Hungary, and Finland. The name has diverse origins and holds significance in various cultures. In Finnish, "Tekla" means "glory of God" or "God's glory." It derives from the Greek name "Thekla," which has a similar meaning. The name gained popularity in Finland during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, inspired by the character Tekla in the play "Hänen olivat linnut" by Finnish playwright Aleksis Kivi.

In Poland, Tekla is a variant of the biblical name "Thecla," which is associated with Saint Tekla. Saint Tekla was a follower of Saint Paul and a woman of great faith who converted to Christianity. As a result, the name Tekla often symbolizes feminine strength and devotion in Polish culture.

The name Tekla also has roots in Hungary, where it is a diminutive of the name "Teréz," meaning "Theresa" in English. Tekla was particularly popular in the early 20th century in Hungary when many Hungarian Jews chose it as an alternative to the common name "Erzsébet" (Elizabeth) to align with their Jewish identity.

Although Tekla is not as common as some other names, it carries a sense of uniqueness and history. It is a name that reflects strength, faith, and divine connection in different cultures. Due to its international presence, Tekla can be seen as a bridge between Eastern European traditions and the global community.