About the name Simeon
Etymology & meaning
Simeon derives from the Hebrew Shimon (שִׁמְעוֹן) — "he has heard", "the one God has heard". Through the Greek Συμεών it entered Bulgarian, giving Симеон, Симо, Мони and Сим, with the feminine Симона, Симеона and Симка.
History & patron saint
The patron is Saint Simeon the Stylite — a 5th-century Syrian ascetic who spent decades in prayer atop a tall pillar, from which his name derives. His commemoration on 1 September coincides with the start of the church new year in the Orthodox calendar, giving the day a double meaning. The Church also venerates Saint Simeon the God-Receiver — the elder who received the infant Christ in the temple with the words "Now lettest thou thy servant depart", which became part of the evening office.
Traditions & customs
As the day opens the church new year, it is understood as the start of a fresh working cycle — a time for taking stock and planning the autumn labours. Celebrants receive guests at a table laden with the produce of the closing summer. In some regions a blessing of the waters is held on this day for the coming year's fertility.
Popularity & notable bearers
Simeon is among the names with the greatest historical weight in Bulgaria — it was borne by Tsar Simeon I the Great, under whom the country reached its widest extent and its Golden Age of letters. In modern times it was borne by Tsar Simeon II, later prime minister of Bulgaria.
Suitable gifts
A book — history in particular, as a nod to the Golden Age — an icon of Saint Simeon, or seasonal gifts from the summer harvest such as honey, home-made preserves and wine all suit.