Pronunciation: [zˈɔːɹɪə] (IPA) 
The word "Zorya" is a tricky one when it comes to spelling. Its pronunciation is /zɔːrjə/ which is why many people might spell it with an "a" instead of a "y". The "z" sound is pronounced the same as in "zoo", while the "o" is like in "bore". The "r" is a soft and slightly rolling sound, followed by the "y" sound which is similar to the "ee" in "see". Lastly, the "a" at the end is a short and unstressed one.
Zorya refers to a term primarily used in Slavic mythology and folklore, particularly in Ukrainian and Russian traditions. It represents a celestial being or mythological goddess associated with the rising and setting of the sun. The term "Zorya" is derived from the Slavic word "zarya," which translates to "dawn" or "morning twilight."
In mythology, there are typically three Zoryas, known as the Zorya of the Morning, the Zorya of the Evening, and the Midnight Zorya. They are often depicted as powerful, divine entities, daughters of the sun god, Dazbog or Svarog. Each Zorya is believed to guard and watch over a particular time of day.
The Morning Zorya is associated with the rising sun and ensures its safe passage across the sky. The Evening Zorya takes charge of the sun's descent, protecting it from any harm. The Midnight Zorya oversees the sun's journey through the night sky and protects it during the darkness.
These goddesses or celestial guardians are often portrayed as young maidens, possessing great beauty and bestowing blessings upon those who pay them homage. They are also believed to vigilantly watch over humanity, protecting against evil and offering guidance, particularly during moments of darkness and uncertainty.
The concept of the Zorya has been preserved in various Slavic cultural expressions such as mythology, folk tales, literature, and art. Their roles symbolize the cyclical nature of nature, the passage of time, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, making them integral characters in Slavic mythological beliefs and storytelling traditions.
The word "Zorya" has its origins in Slavic mythology. The term is derived from the Old Slavic word "zorja", which means "dawn" or "morning light". In Slavic mythology, the Zorya are a group of guardian goddesses associated with the sun and the dawn. They are often depicted as three sisters: Zorya Utrennyaya, the Morning Star, Zorya Vechernyaya, the Evening Star, and Zorya Polunochnaya, the Midnight Star. These goddesses were believed to watch over the morning, evening, and nighttime skies, guarding against evil spirits and ensuring the safe transition of the sun and moon during day and night. The word "Zorya" has now become a common name used in modern Slavic languages.
