What is the ruling on naming a newborn "Harb"?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Naming a newborn "Harb" (meaning 'war') is reprehensible in Islamic law due to its negative connotation. It is among the ugliest names, like "Harb." The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "The ugliest names are Harb and Murrah." Therefore, the most beautiful and best names should be chosen for the newborn, as this is their right upon their parents. It is not an act of righteousness to name a child with an ugly name, even if the grandfather bore the same name.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/73372
Where this answer came from
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 73372
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy