NAMES FOR MUSLIM CHILDREN (PB)

Psychologists now apprehend the wisdom of the effect a person’s name hos on his life. But Muhammad (Sallallaahu-alayhi-wasallam) had revealed this fact to his followers already 1400 years ago. His teaching to his followers was that children should be given good names, and that meaningless names and those having unsavoury connotations should be avoided. Subsequently, we find many incidents mentioned in the Hadith where Rasoolulloh (sallallaahu-alayhi-wasallam) changed the names of people with this object. Another aspect of o person’s name is that it bespeaks o person’s religion. Hence the name of o Muslim is usually of such o nature that by the mere mention of it, the listener understands that the person so addressed, is o Muslim. lt is for this reason that our elders laid great emphasis on keeping good and pleasant names. But since the widespread of western culture throughout the world, it has become customary amongst Muslims not to toke into congnisance themeaning of the home when naming a child. Many do not even bother to ascertain whether it is permissible for one to keep such a name or not. Often, even if the name is correct and suitable, then by way of abbreviating it, its lslamic connotation is distorted. In fact, at times it even become unlawful to address one by such a name. For example, Abdur-Rahmaan is called Rahmaan, Abdur-Razzaaq, Razzaaq, Abdul-wahhaab, Wahhaab – whereas Rahmaan, Razzaaq and Wahhaab are the exclusive epithets of Allah Ta’ala. To address any creation by such a name, is therefore unlawful. While this disease is rampant in the entire Muslim World, it is more in vague in South Africa: Sulaimaan is called Solly; Yoosuf is coiled Joosub, Essop or Joe; Uthmaan is coiled Ozman etc. In this way the blessed names of the Ambiyaa (alayhlmus-salaam) and Sahaabad (radhlyallaahu-anhum) are distorted and needlessly rendered meaningless. Moreover, one may never know whether the one so addressed is Muslim or not. Hence, with regard naming Children, there was a need for compiling a book wherein all misconceptions could be eradicated and guidance could be given as to the Importance of giving correct and meaningful names. Alhamdolillah, respected brother, Molana Qaree Muhammod Rafeeq, teacher of Madrasah Islamia, Lenasia has fulfilled this need proficiently in the pages to follow. The respected compiler has in his introduction explained most ably the lslamic teachings regarding a new-born child. The Masaa’il pertaining to Tahneek, Azaan, Duaas, circumcision, naming a child and many more have been explained in detail. Apart from having compiled a book on Muslim names in an alphabetic order, he has also rendered their meanings and their literal and historical aspects as well. During my tour of South Africa, l have had a cursory perusal of the book from various portions and found lt to bedpost invaluable in my opinion it should find its place into the home of every Muslim-that no family should remain without it. May Allah grant the compiler the best of rewards in both the worlds for the services rendered by him, and may He also grant this book aCCeptance and grant him the guidance to render more and greater service of this nature. Ameen. ( Muhammad Taqee Uthamani)