Anja

Anja is the Scandinavian, German, Dutch, and South Slavic form of Anna, which derives from the Hebrew name Channah, meaning grace or favour. The name spread throughout Europe largely through early Christian veneration of Saint Anne, the traditional mother of the Virgin Mary. It remains widely used across northern and central Europe as a familiar, independently registered form rather than merely a diminutive. Related forms include Anna, Anne, Anya, Annika, and Hanna.