A Dictionary of Muslim Names

"In a well-known hadith, Muhammad advises Muslims that, 'On the Day of Resurrection, you will be called by your names and the names of your fathers; so keep beautiful names.' Inspired by the teachings of Islam, names fulfill the cherished ambitions of a true Muslim. Unfortunately, a large number of Muslims with names of Arabic or Persian origin are unaware of their meaning and their bearing on Islamic heritage. Many parents select names for their children consisting of uncommon Arabic words with phonetic effect. But these meanings are often devoid of any religious meaning or cultural resonance. In The Dictionary of Muslim Names, Salahuddin Ahmed provides a helpful and substantive guide to common and less-common Muslim names. This lively and informative dictionary lists the original Arabic, Persian, or Turkish spelling, as well as a precise English transliteration. The names' meaning and bearing on Islamic heritage or world history are referenced, along with historical figures who bore the name - an Imaam, a Sultan, a saint - and accompanying examples"--Back cover.