Another Muslim question.. I have noticed that those who accept Islam frequently change their name..?

Question

why is this and is it mandatory.

I hope that's worded correctly..

jesussaves : yes spoken like a true idiot

Answer 1

A convert to Islam is not obliged to change their name to a muslim name. However, if the non-muslim name has a meaning that is against Islam then selecting a new name would be advisable.

Changing your name to a muslim name can be done:
- either through the official name changing channels, resulting in a name change on your bank account, passport etc.
- alternatively, it can be as simple as selecting your new name and asking others to use it, leaving your official name as that given on your birth certificate.

The latter option tends to be the most popular amongst new muslims, and is perfectly acceptable.

Having decided on the new name the convert can tell friends and family as appropriate, realising that telling parents that the name they chose for you as a baby has now been changed, could be a delicate matter. A number of converts continue to be known to their families by their non-muslim names, at least until the family have accepted their change in religion.

There are many muslim names to pick from, and the names listed below are only a few out of the many. Some converts prefer to pick a muslim name that is similar in sounding to their non-muslim name, whereas others, like myself, prefer a brand new name that is different, a totally new name for a new start.

Answer 2

It's not mandatory. If our name has a bad meaning or is obviously referring to another religion we are to change it ex:"Christian" or "Evil". Some like to change any old name to show their new life and new commitment. Other people feel like it helps them fit in better.

I didn't change my name and don't ever intend to. Some people who became Muslim in the time of the prophet pbuh didn't change their names either because they had good meanings.

edit: Really, there is no such thing as a "Muslim Name". These names people talk about are mostly Arab names and were names before the time of the prophet pbuh. A Muslim Name is any name that has a good meaning.

Answer 3

No, its not mandatory. It would be mandatory if the birthname was against Islam & ALLAH. I didnt change my name legally. I have too much family that is used to my name. Besides, I'm the only one in my family that converted.
For Islam, i did choose a name (Hamida Huda) because I much rather have a name that has a good meaning insted of just my first name which means "dark haired" in which im not.
Hamida = Praising Allah
Huda = Rightly Guided

~peace

Answer 4

No it is not mandatory to change your name upon reverting to Islam. However if you have a Pagan name then you should think about changing it. Some just change their first name only. Others change their first and last name. It just depends on what the person decides.

Answer 5

No, it is not mandatory. It's a preference of some to have Muslim names, some that carry great meaning and/or respect.

I converted, but i didn't change my name. I like my name as it is.

Answer 6

Not mandatory but it is a way of starting a new life and a new identity as a Muslim.

True repentance is to start fresh and move away from an old life of a different thought.

.

Answer 7

CB4UP is right, you are embarking on a new life and a name change quantifies it. My cousin changed from Marion to 'Manira.' I do like the person she has become since this change, but that doesn't mean that I would embrace the religion myself.

Answer 8

easier to do terrorism if noone knows your real name