10 Muslim Names That Are Prohibited in Islam

Selecting a name for a child is an important decision in Islam because names have meanings and signify identity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught the importance of good names, as they have religious and social significance. Although Islam promotes beautiful and meaningful names, there are some names that are forbidden or not recommended. These names could have inappropriate meanings, polytheism, or features that only befit Allah. The following list contains 10 categories of forbidden or avoided names in Islam:

1. Names That Imply Worship of Other Than Allah

    Names having partners for Allah (shirk) are out of bounds. For instance:

        Abdul-Masih (Servant of the Messiah)

Abdul-Uzza (Servant of Al-Uzza, a pre-Islamic deity)

The "Abd" (servant) prefix is to be followed by only one of Allah's 99 attributes, i.e., Abdullah (Servant of Allah) or Abdur-Rahman (Servant of the Most Merciful).

2. Names of False Deities or Idols

Names that invoke idols or false gods of the pre-Islamic era are not allowed. Examples include:

        Lat (pre-Islamic goddess)

        Manat (another pre-Islamic goddess)

These names are also related to shirk and are strictly forbidden.

3. Names That Exclusively Belong to Allah

Some of the names belong specifically to Allah and must not be applied to people. For instance:

        Al-Khaliq (The Creator)

        Ar-Razzaq (The Provider)

    To use these names for individuals would be to ascribe divine attributes to them, which is not proper.

4. Names with Negative or Evil Meanings

    Negative or evil meaning names are discouraged. For instance:

        Harb (war)

        Murrah (bitterness)

    Islam favors names that indicate positivity, beauty, and good character.

5. Names of Tyrants or Evil Historical Figures

Giving children names after notorious tyrants or wicked characters is not encouraged. For instance:

        Firaun (Pharaoh, who was known for his tyranny and arrogance)

        Qarun (a rich man who was arrogant and rebellious against Allah)

    These names have bad connotations and are not for Muslims.

6. Names That Mimic Non-Muslim Religious Rituals

Names which are clearly linked to other religions or cultures in a manner that goes against Islam is not encouraged. The following are examples:

        George (linked to Christian saints)

        Diana (linked to Roman mythology)

While certain names are universal, care should be taken to ensure that names which have religious overtones that run counter to Islam are not used.

7. Arrogant or Pretentious Names

    Names with arrogant or superior overtones are avoided. For instance:

        Malik al-Amlak (King of Kings)

        Sultan as-Salatin (Sultan of Sultans)

These names could give rise to pride and are not compliant with the humility advocated in Islam.

8. Angel Names

    Angel names like Jibreel (Gabriel) or Mikail (Michael) are generally not permitted for humans. Though some scholars allow them, others discourage using them to avoid misunderstanding or wrongful implications.

9. Offensive or Ridiculous Names

Names that are offending, obscene, or absurd are not allowed. For instance:

        Kalb (dog)

        Himar (donkey)

These types of names offend and are not in line with the dignity bestowed upon a person by Islam.

10. Names That Mimic Disbelievers in a Fashion That Glorifies Them

Names that mimic non-believers in a way that eulogizes their lifestyle or their beliefs are not encouraged. For instance:

        Napoleon (a non-Muslim historical figure)

        Hitler (a dictator)

Muslims are encouraged to select names that are Islamic in values and identity.

Conclusion

In Islam, names are not mere labels; they have meanings and shape an individual's identity and character. Parents are encouraged to select names with good meanings, Islamic values, and in honor of the child's faith. By avoiding prohibited or discouraged names, Muslims can make sure that their children's names become a source of blessings and pride.

In case of uncertainty, it is always wise to refer to Islamic scholars or reliable sources so that the selected name is proper and acceptable to Allah. May Allah guide us to make the right decisions for ourselves and our families. Ameen.