why do you need an "Islamic" name as a Muslim?

Answer 1

In short, you don't. Certainly if you become a Muslim.


"When I took my Shahada, I was asked not whether I wished to choose a "Muslim name" but what name I wished to adopt. Not knowing any better at the time, I did reluctantly choose a new name, and used it briefly in Muslim circles. However, I did not change any of my official documents. Only later did I discover that there is, in principle, no requirement whatsoever to change one's name. The original converts to Islam at the time of Prophet Mohammed usually kept the Arabic name they always had. The only exceptions were people who had a name with unpleasant or pagan connotations. So-called "Muslim names" are, in the main, simply Arabic ones or traditional names from countries that were early adopters of Islam. There is no requirement for a new Muslim to adopt one of these.

While I respect (though do not necessarily agree with) the choice of those Muslim converts who have adopted a new name, I expect all Muslims to respect the right of other converts such as myself to retain their original name. I generally now use my "real" name, not the "Muslim name" that was initially thrust upon me. Sadly I have come under pressure from some ignorant born Muslims on this matter.

To be frank, I feel that adopting a "Muslim name", makes it easier for one's existing circle of family and friends to dismiss one's conversion to Islam as an act of eccentricity which they can brush off. By changing one's name and starting to wear, say, Pakistani clothing, one confirms in their minds the foreignness or alien nature of what is supposed to be universal Islam. I believe that these actions, or dare I say distractions, make it harder for most people from non-Muslim countries to identify with Islam, the welcoming and inclusive universal religion open to all, and see how it could be relevant to their own lives."

Answer 2

You don't. Many converts choose a name that fits the "typical" Muslim image, however this is by choice. Take for example Cat Stephens, now known as Yusuf Islam. The only time it is recommended to change your name is if the meaning of your name involves something that goes against Islam. For example the names of gods or goddesses. My friend Dianna changed her name to Khadija because she discovered Dianna meant the daughter of a god of something, I forget which one at the moment. My friends Michelle, Madelene (Latina), Susan, Crystal, Sabrina, Serena, Vasilica (Romanian), Lawra (Lithuanian) and I all kept our birth names. Lol, can you picture all of these names of ladies who all wear headscarves?

Answer 3

Probably for the same reason those confirmed in Christ take a Christian name. To denote your new life. My given name is Lisa. My confirmation name is Maximilian Marie, taken from St. Max Kolbe.

Saint Max gave up his life to save a Jewish man sentenced to death. He took the other mans place and died by lethal injection after several weeks in a sarvation bunker.

Answer 4

You don't. But people want to get a new name because it is a new start.

Answer 5

and why not?
Christians have names like michael..georoge..marry..peter...who were good ppl lived in the time of Jesus
selecting a name related to your faith exists in all religions .

Answer 6

you know I never thought of that, I do know converts who maintained their prior names, but I am sure it feels good if I know that my name is one of the 99 names of Allah or Muhammad or one of the companions of Muhammad PBUH or an Islamic leader peace

Answer 7

The name should have meaning right? we can choose any name that has good meaning

Answer 8

No, just as long as Al is in there somewhere.