Greek Name Day of Erasmia and Erasmea, individuals named after the Christian saint or martyr Erasmia are celebrated. Name Days, predominantly observed in Catholic and Eastern Orthodox countries, honor saints or martyrs associated with particular dates. These celebrations often hold greater significance than birthdays. The name Erasmia, derived from the Greek word meaning ‘beloved,’ commemorates one of the 40 virgins who met a tragic fate at the hands of Licinius, the ruler of Thrace. These 40 virgins were mercilessly tortured and killed as punishment for their teacher Ammon’s refusal to renounce Christianity and embrace paganism.