Forbidden Names in Islam
Choosing a name for a child is an important decision in Islam. Names carry meanings and influence a person’s identity. Islam encourages selecting names with good meanings, as a name can reflect a person’s character and faith. However, some names are considered forbidden (haram) or disliked (makruh) in Islam due to their negative meanings, associations, or contradictions to Islamic beliefs. In this article we will talk about different categories of forbidden names in Islam.
Different Categories of Forbidden Names in Islam
1. Names That Indicate Servitude to Other Than Allah
Islam teaches absolute monotheism, and a Muslim must not have a name that implies servitude to anyone other than Allah. Examples include:
- Abd al-Nabi (Servant of the Prophet)
- Abd al-Kaaba (Servant of the Kaaba)
- Abd al-Rasool (Servant of the Messenger)
- Ghulam Muhammad (Servant of Muhammad)
The correct way is to use names that indicate servitude to Allah alone, such as Abdullah (Servant of Allah) and Abdur-Rahman (Servant of the Most Merciful).
2. Names Exclusive to Allah
Certain names belong solely to Allah and should not be used as names unless preceded by ‘Abd’ (Servant of). Examples include:
- Al-Rahman (The Most Merciful)
- Al-Khaliq (The Creator)
- Al-Malik (The King)
- Al-Samad (The Self-Sufficient)
Instead, names like Abdur-Rahman (Servant of the Most Merciful) are permissible.
3. Names with Evil or Negative Meanings
Islam discourages names that have negative or harmful meanings. Some examples include:
- Harb (War)
- Shaitan (Satan)
- Firaun (Pharaoh)
- Dhulm (Oppression)
- Zalim (Tyrant)
Such names carry bad connotations and should be avoided.
4. Names of Non-Muslim Deities
Islam forbids naming children after deities or figures worshipped in other religions. Examples include:
. Zeus
Such names should be avoided.
5. Names of Tyrants and Enemies of Islam
Names associated with notorious oppressors, enemies of Islam, or wicked rulers should be avoided. Examples include:
- Abu Lahab (A known enemy of Islam)
- Haman (An evil figure in the time of Prophet Musa (AS)
- Nimrod (A tyrant mentioned in Islamic history)
6. Names That Promote Arrogance or Pride
Islam emphasizes humility, and names that signify arrogance or self-glorification should be avoided. Examples include:
- Malik al-Muluk (King of Kings)
- Sayyid al-Kawn (Master of the Universe)
- Jabbar (The Compeller – a name of Allah that signifies dominance)
7. Names That Have Unclear or Bad Associations
Some names might have meanings that are disliked in Islamic tradition or are ambiguous. For instance:
- Rijāl (Men) – Too general
- Qadhdhāb – Liar or deceiver
8. Names That Imply Filth or Disgrace
Names that indicate dirt, filth, or anything impure are also discouraged. Examples include:
- Kalb (Dog)
- Himar (Donkey)
- Najas (Impure)
What to Do If Someone Has a Forbidden Name?
If a Muslim discovers that their name falls under the forbidden category, it is recommended to change it to a name with a good meaning. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) changed names that had bad meanings and advised his followers to choose names with positive significance.
Forbidden Names in Islam
Selecting a meaningful and permissible name in Islam is essential. Parents should avoid “forbidden names in Islam” and choose names that carry good meanings, reflect faith, and avoid those that contradict Islamic teachings. The best names are those that honor Allah, the Prophets, or righteous figures in Islamic history. May Allah guide us in choosing the best names for our children.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as religious authority. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to consult qualified Islamic scholars and conduct their own research before making any decisions regarding names.
Read: Names of Sahabah (RA)