Discover the forbidden names Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cautioned against for children and the reasons behind these restrictions. Explore the recommended names and the auspicious timing for bestowing a name upon a newborn.
The Significance of Names
Names serve as a lifelong identity, and thus, bestowing a good name upon a child is both a right and a responsibility of parents. However, not all names are permissible, as there are certain names prohibited by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ due to their negative connotations or potential harmful effects.
Prohibited Names and Their Explanations
1. Yasār (Ease):
- Reason for Prohibition: It can be used for fortune-telling, implying predictions about ease or hardship. Only Allah knows the unseen and determines the fate of His servants.
2. Rabāh (Profit):
- Reason for Prohibition: Similar to Yasār, it can be employed in fortune-telling, predicting profit or loss. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized that only Allah controls the unseen and decides sustenance.
3. Najīh (Successful):
- Reason for Prohibition: Like Yasār and Rabāh, Najīh is banned due to its potential use in fortune-telling. Predicting success or failure is reserved for Allah alone.
4. Aflah (Most Victorious):
- Reason for Prohibition: Its prohibition is rooted in the potential for fortune-telling, predicting victory or defeat. Such knowledge is exclusive to Allah.
Recommended Names by Prophet Muhammad
In contrast to prohibited names, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ recommended names with positive meanings. Allah particularly favors names like Abdullah (Servant of Allah) and Abdurrahman (Servant of the Most Compassionate). Other names endorsed include those of angels, prophets, and certain Quranic names like Thaha and Yasin.
Guidance from Scholars
Scholars unanimously agree that names implying servitude to entities other than Allah are forbidden. However, exceptions exist, such as Abdul Muththalib, the grandfather of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Optimal Time for Naming a Child
According to Fiqh Sunnah by Sayyid Sabiq, the recommended time for naming a child is the seventh day after birth. On this day, shaving the baby's hair and giving silver in charity equivalent to its weight is encouraged. The Prophet ﷺ advised Fatimah to perform these rituals for Hasan and Husain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, naming a child is a significant decision, and adherence to the guidance provided by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ ensures a name with positive connotations and avoids practices like fortune-telling. May this information be beneficial and insightful. Thank you.
0 Comments