About the name Kliment
Etymology & meaning
Kliment derives from the Latin Clemens — "merciful", "gentle", "lenient". The name was borne by several early Christian bishops and popes, and acquired a special significance in Bulgaria through one of the disciples of the Slavic apostles. Familiar forms are Клим and Клименти, with the feminine Климентина.
History & patron saint
The patron is Saint Clement of Ohrid — a disciple of Cyril and Methodius who came to Bulgaria after the Slavic scholars were driven from Moravia. He founded the Ohrid Literary School, taught thousands of pupils and, by tradition, created or perfected the Cyrillic alphabet. He is regarded as the first Slavic bishop and one of the most significant educators in Bulgarian history. His feast falls on 25 November.
Traditions & customs
The feast of Saint Clement of Ohrid is also the patron day of Sofia University, which bears his name — Bulgaria's oldest higher school. The celebration therefore has a distinctly scholarly character, marked with academic ceremonies, awards and events devoted to Bulgarian letters. Celebrants keep the day in the usual way, though the good wishes often include success in study or scholarship.
Popularity & notable bearers
Kliment is a rarer but highly respected Bulgarian name, closely bound to education and letters. Its presence in the names of the university, of schools and of community centres across the country makes it widely recognisable even where it is uncommon as a given name.
Suitable gifts
The most fitting gift is a book — the day is inseparable from learning. An icon of Saint Clement of Ohrid, quality writing instruments or a facsimile of an Old Bulgarian manuscript suit equally well. For students and academics the gift is often paired with greetings for the university’s patron day.