The Sunnah encourages naming a newborn either on the day of birth or on the seventh day. Most scholars prefer the seventh day, as it coincides with the ‘aqeeqah and shaving the head, but naming on the first day is also established from the Prophet ﷺ. Some scholars held that both times are Sunnah, while others said it can be done anytime. Al-Bukhari reconciled the narrations by suggesting that if the ‘aqeeqah is done, the name should be delayed to the seventh day; otherwise, it may be given on the first day. Overall, naming is mustahabb, not obligatory, and delaying beyond the seventh day is permissible without sin.
Question
Can we name a baby “Khalid Ullah”? Someone mentioned it may have conflicting meanings. Is this correct?
Bottom Line
No, it is not advisable to name a child “Khalid Ullah” as it may imply “eternal God.” The name “Khalid” alone is permissible.
Quick Answer
In Islam, names must have good meanings. “Khalid” is fine by itself, but when paired with “Ullah,” it risks implying a divine attribute, which is inappropriate. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged names like Abdullah, Abdur-Rahman, and names of prophets.
Key Takeaways
- Names should carry clear, good meanings as people will be called by them on the Day of Judgment.
- “Khalid” alone is permissible, but “Khalid Ullah” risks implying “eternal God,” which conflicts with Islamic belief.
Detailed Answer
Islam emphasizes choosing good names. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“You will be called on the Day of Resurrection by your names and the names of your fathers, so choose good names for yourselves.”
Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4948
The word Khalid means “eternal” or “immortal.” The word Ullah refers to Allah. When combined, the meaning could be understood as “eternal God.” This is problematic, since eternity belongs only to Allah, and no created being should share in that description.
The Prophet ﷺ gave specific guidance on names:
“The most beloved of your names to Allah are Abdullah and Abdur-Rahman.” Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2132
“Name your children after the Prophets.” Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4950
“The most truthful names are Harith and Hammam, and the worst names are Harb and Murrah.” Sunan Ibn Mājah 3730
Thus, while “Khalid” alone is fine, attaching “Ullah” creates a misleading meaning. Better options are simply “Khalid,” or names praised in the Sunnah.
What This Means for You
It is best to avoid “Khalid Ullah.” Choose “Khalid” alone or another name from the Sunnah, such as Abdullah, Abdur-Rahman, or names of the Prophets.
And Allah knows best.
References
Primary Sources
Hadith
- Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4948: Choose good names, for people will be called by them on the Day of Judgment.
- Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2132: The most beloved names to Allah are Abdullah and Abdur-Rahman.
- Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4950: Name your children after the Prophets.
- Sunan Ibn Mājah 3730: The most truthful and worst names.
Secondary Sources
- Ibn al-Qayyim, Tuhfat al-Mawdūd bi Aḥkām al-Mawlūd: On rulings of newborn names.
- Al-Nawawi, Sharḥ Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Commentary on hadith about names.
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