Fatwa ID: 02495

Answered by: Molana Eunus Ali

Question:

Can I change my name after aqiqah according to the Islamic sariyat.

Answer

بسم الله الرحمن الرحي

Abu Huraira :Zainab’s original name was "Barrah," but it was said' "By that she is giving herself the prestige of piety." So the Prophet changed her name to Zainab. (Sahih Bukhari:6192)

Ibn 'Umar reported that Allah’s Messenger changed the name of 'Asiya (Disobedient) and said: You are Jamila (i. e. good and handsome). (SahihBukhari: 5332)

It is clear from the above mentioned Ahadith that it is permissible to change ones name to a better name. The practice of the Prophet  was to change disliked name to better meaningful names. (UmdatulQari, Volume 12, Page 325, DarulKutubulIlmiyyah)

It is from amongst the Prophetic teachings to keep good names:

AbudDarda' narrates:The Prophet  said: On the Day of Resurrection you will be called by your names and by your father's names, so give yourselves good names. (SunanAbiDawood: 4948)

AbuWahb al-Jushami  narrates:The Prophet  said: Call yourselves by the names of the Prophets. The names dearest to Allah are Abdullah and AbdurRahman, the truest are Harith and Hammam, and the worst are Harb and Murrah. (SunanAbiDawood: 4950)

In regards to your question, there is no time limit attached to the changing of one’s name and can be done at any time when changing to a better name. (FatawaMahmoodiyyah, Volume 24, Page 381, DarulIftaaJamiahFarooqiyyah)

Only Allah knows best

Written by Molana Eunus Ali

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham