What is the ruling on being named "Nirvana"—an Ajamī (non-Arabic) name for a female that means a state of complete extinction and detachment from the world after meditation—and must a Muslim woman named with it change it if it is disliked (makrūh) or forbidden (harām), despite the potential problems with family and difficulties in changing official documents that may result from that?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
A Muslim is not permitted to name themselves "Nirvana" because it is a name with Buddhist connotations related to the spiritual beliefs of that religion, which contradicts the principles of Islam. A Muslim should avoid names that symbolize other religions or are specific to them. Changing such a name is obligatory, unless doing so would lead to significant harm. In that case, it is permissible to use another nickname while insisting on being called by it until an opportunity for change arises.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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