Why do people who convert to Islam change their names?

Question

This is an honest question! I was reading online about several Christian men (caucasian American men, children of white European immigrants) who converted to Islam and changed their given names, kind of like when Casious Clay became Muhammed Ali after he converted.

When it comes to African Americans who convert to Islam, I have heard the name change described as them eliminating their "slave names" and reclaiming their cultural identity...things like that.

But why do people from other ethnic groups do it? Is there something in the Quaran that suggests a name change is necessary?

I tried to find an answer to this question on-line, but I didn't find anything other than more conversion stories.

Are there any Muslims with names like "John Smith"? ...ok, that's a little cheeky, but you get my question ;-)

Answer 1

Interesting question.
Islam is the culture of the Arabs (specifically muslim Arabs of Saudi Arabia). A muslim from any country or race loses the identity of his local community or country. His holy land becomes Arabia, his holy language becomes Arabic (he may for example read the Quran in some other language but it is considered to be really read only if it is read in Arabic), he & his women wear clothes that are similar to those worn in Arabia, he even prays 5 times a day bowing towards Mecca, his values and customs become those of the Arabs, his first loyalty is towards the Islam of the Arabs.... (I am of course talking of practising muslims).
Incidentally this is the reason why it is not possible for muslims to integrate in the true sense with people of other religions & cultures.
Islam in other words, is cultural imperialism of the Arabs.
The ultimate in act such cultural subjugation is to to change one's name to that of an arabic one such as Mohammad, Omar, Osman .....Got it.

Answer 2

No you don't have to change your name, as long as it's has a good meaning and isn't against Islam, etc. but no it doesn't have to be an "Arabic"Name many of us just do there are many reasons for doing so, I did it so I could be known as a muslim of course my mom and my family and many of my friends still call me Megan, but most of my muslim friends call my Khadijah, one of the things you might consider if you are going into a large community of muslims, than you might want to pick a name to go by because people can have trouble saying your name etc. But you can keep your names as long as it doesn't mean something bad, doesn't worship false Idols, Like if your name was Christian or Christine. Or if your a girl named after an angel because thats what the pagans used to do but otherwise you don't have to change your name.

Answer 3

Name change is a sign of rebirth. They are reborn mentally and spiritually, a name is better than gold. A good name shows respect for God. They are no longer the person they were before so they don't need that old name.

Answer 4

Because its recommended that you change your first name feel more with your Muslim identity. But its forbidden to change your last name which alot of converts do

Answer 5

The reason they change their names to Arabic names is to show that they have become Muslims. It is not compulsory, though; those who wish to keep their names may do so.

Answer 6

It is not necessary to change your name, but when most people convert, they like to change their name to an islamic one because they have renounced their previous beliefs and affiliations. some people don't change their name. it's all about choice.

Answer 7

when my family converted into islam they told our family to change our names.later on we learn that allah(god)never said anything about changing names and that we dont have change our names but only if we want to

Answer 8

I honestly don't know the answer to this question, but the reason my be similar to why catholics get biblical names when they are confirmed. To honor those who have walked the path before them.

Hope this helps and God bless.

Answer 9

Most give themselves islamic names to show their devotion.

Answer 10

there is no obligation 2 change your name but its about your commitment and devotion.