Back to search
The question

What is the ruling on naming a newborn "Sami" with the intention of their good character, and is it reprehensible?

Share this answer

Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

The issue of names is important, for a name is the title of the named and essential for understanding. It is an adornment for the named and a distinguishing mark by which one is called. The general rule for names is permissibility, while avoiding religiously prohibited matters.

There is no objection to naming a newborn "Sami," due to its beautiful meaning which does not involve any religious transgression. "Sami" comes from "sumuw," meaning elevation and loftiness, as stated in "Lisan al-Arab" and "An-Nihayah fi Gharib al- wal-Athar." If one names with it optimistically, seeking high standing and eminence in both worlds, then it is a good intention and there is no objection to it. This name has remained in circulation among Muslims without any disapproval.

Summary from Ftawy's records · added here

Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.

Read the full answer on Ftawy
Where this answer came from
Source platform
Ftawy
Original fatwa ID
26305
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