One common misconception is that Muslims must give their children Arabic names.
Islamic teachings do not impose such a general requirement.
Muslim families may choose names from Turkish, Persian, African, Asian or other linguistic and cultural traditions, provided their meanings are consistent with Islamic principles.
Similarly, people who convert to Islam are not necessarily required to change their existing names.
A change is generally considered necessary only when a name has a meaning that conflicts with fundamental religious beliefs.
Islam does not establish a single mandatory day for naming a newborn.
According to Islamic traditions, a baby may be named on the day of birth.
Another widespread practice involves naming the child on the seventh day, often alongside the aqiqah, an animal sacrifice performed in gratitude for the child's birth.
Although the seventh day is traditionally preferred in some communities, naming a child earlier is also permissible.
Delaying the naming ceremony for a reasonable period is not considered inherently problematic, although leaving a child unnamed for months is generally discouraged.
In some Muslim communities, the naming ceremony includes reciting the adhan, the Islamic call to prayer, into the newborn's right ear.
The iqamah, the shorter call announcing the beginning of congregational prayer, may also be recited into the left ear.
This practice is traditionally associated with reports about the Prophet Muhammad's treatment of his grandson Hasan.
However, scholars differ regarding the authenticity and strength of the hadith reports supporting some aspects of this custom.
The practice is intended to introduce the child to expressions of Islamic faith from the beginning of life.
The Arabic word abd means "servant" or "worshipper."
In Islamic naming traditions, it is commonly combined with one of the divine names or attributes of Allah.
Examples include:
Abdullah: Servant of Allah.
Abdurrahman: Servant of the Most Merciful.
Abdulaziz: Servant of the Almighty.
Abdulkarim: Servant of the Most Generous.
Abdulmalik: Servant of the Sovereign.
Traditional Islamic scholarship emphasizes that expressions of religious servitude should be directed toward Allah alone.
Islamic tradition also recognizes the practice of naming animals and frequently used personal belongings.
Historical accounts indicate that Prophet Muhammad gave names to certain animals and possessions.
Among the best-known examples are his camel, Qaswa, and his sword, Dhu al-Fiqar.
Islamic scholars generally consider naming animals and objects permissible as long as the chosen names do not carry prohibited or insulting meanings.
Cultural customs and social sensitivities should also be respected when selecting such names.
The Quran warns believers against mocking others and using offensive nicknames.
Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11) specifically condemns ridicule, insults and derogatory forms of address.
However, nicknames based on a person's profession, positive characteristics or commonly recognized identity may be acceptable when they are not intended to humiliate or offend.
The central principle is that a name or nickname should not become a means of disrespect.
