Baby Boy Names Honoring Prophet's Family Members
Uncles, Cousins, Adopted Sons & Grandsons of the Prophet
Sep 13, 2009
When expecting a baby, Muslim parents are often reminded of the following Hadith.
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings upon him) once reminded his followers: "On the Day of Resurrection, you will be called by your names and by your fathers' names, so give yourselves good names." (Abu Dawud).
There are many good names for Muslim boys, but a great way to give them a good jump-start in life is to name them after iconic men in Islamic history.
Prophet Muhammad had many family members who were supportive of him during the difficult times of Islam (may Allah be pleased with all of them). Most of them were cousins and uncles. His father had died before his birth and his sons passed away when they were children. Here are a few of his relatives whose names have also been popular choices for baby boys.
Names of Prophet Muhammad’s Uncle and Cousin
Hamza was an uncle of the Prophet who had protected him during the most turbulent times of Islam. His reversion to Islam was arguably the most controversial as he was known for a sordid lifestyle prior to Islam. Upon embracing Islam, he accompanied the Prophet and / or his entourages everywhere they went. He battled against his brothers who wanted to have Prophet Muhammad and his followers (especially the slaves and the poor) killed on many occasions.
Jafar was the name of Abi Talib’s eldest son. Abi Talib was Prophet Muhammad’s protective uncle who never embraced Islam despite his loyalty towards his nephew. Jafar headed the first emigration of Muslims to Abyssinia, where they sought refuge amongst Christians of the time, following the orders of the Prophet. Upon attempts to sabotage their peaceful inhabitation in Abyssinia by the Quraysh, Jafar took a brave step in relaying the story of Maryam to the King of Abyssinia from the Qur’an, sealing trust between the Muslims and Christians during a dangerous time. Because of Jafar’s bold move, the King welcomed the Muslims into his homeland and granted them protection as long as they chose Abyssinia as their abode.
Names of Prophet Muhammad’s Adopted Sons
Ali was Prophet Muhammad’s cousin but lived with the Prophet as an adopted son. Ali was the first child to embrace Islam and was first spotted as a Muslim in prayer behind the Prophet at the Ka’abah. He was accompanied by the first Muslim woman – Khadija. Ali represents the importance of youth in Islam as he was never shunned from Islamic discussions and lessons as a young boy. He grew up also a brave warrior and later married Fatima, Prophet Muhammad’s favourite daughter.
Zayd was the adopted son of Prophet Muhammad, and it was through the changes in his life that many verses of the treatment of orphans were revealed. Zayd – an orphan himself – was also a steadfast Muslim despite the abuse and torture he and his comrades faced early on in Makkah.
Names of Prophet Muhammad’s Grandsons
Hassan and Hussein were the sons of Ali and Fatimah. Prophet Muhammad was reported to be giddily in love with them. The boys often accompanied the Prophet to prayers and lectures. They grew up to be important Imams in Islam and continued to spread the Islamic faith until their deaths, many years after their grandfather had left them.
Honoring a Member of the Prophet's Household
Choosing a Muslim name for a baby boy can be the most exciting experience for expecting parents. One way is to honour the relatives of Prophet Muhammad by choosing their names as namesakes. Prophet Muhammad had two sons of his own - Qasim and Ibrahim (may Allah be please with them) - but they died while they were young. Nevertheless, their names and the names of their relatives live on until this very day.
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