Is it permissible to name a girl "Cecilia," which means "patroness of music" and is the name of a Roman saint?
A parent should choose good names for their children, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed, you will be called on the Day of Resurrection by your names, so make your names good." If the meaning of a name is religiously reprehensible, such as indicating sin and disobedience, then it is disliked. Uthman ibn Abi al-'As refused to appoint a person named "Zalim ibn Sariq" for this reason. Likewise, if a name is specific to non-Muslims, then it is forbidden to name with it due to the resemblance to disbelievers, such as "Jirjis and Butrus." However, common names like "Yahya and Isa" are permissible for Muslims and others.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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