Is it permissible to name someone "Shafi" and what are the implications for the bearer of this name?
A name is a title and a guide for the named, and it is an adornment and a emblem for them. The basic principle regarding names is permissibility, but it is necessary to avoid naming with names exclusively belonging to Allah, such as "Al-Khaliq" (The Creator) and "Ar-Rahman" (The Most Merciful), or with names that can only apply to Allah, such as "Malik Al-Muluk" (King of Kings).
The name "Al-Shafi" (The Healer) is one of the names exclusively belonging to Allah Almighty, and it is not permissible for anyone to be named with it. It has been authentically reported in the of the Prophet that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Heal, for You are the Healer; there is no healing except Your healing."
Allah alone is the Healer, and no one heals but Him, as He Almighty said: (And when I am ill, it is He who cures me). And whoever was named "Al-Shafi" must change it whenever possible. Even if they cannot change it in official documents, they should change it among people. If the person with this name grows older, they must change it whenever they are able.
In conclusion, it is not permissible to be named (Shafi) because it is one of the names exclusively belonging to Allah Almighty. He, glory be to Him, is the Healer alone, and no one heals but Him. Whoever was named with this name should change it whenever possible.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Original fatwa ID
- 26016
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- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
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