Many of my non-Muslim followers were quite inquisitive when we named our twins, I received so many questions, comments (positive and negative) and feedback that I have decided to write about the Islamic name giving ceremony and share with you pictures of this special day.
When a Muslim baby is born, the very first sound it hears is a recital by the father or male relative, of the declaration of faith (Athaan and Iqaamah). This is whispered into both ears. In this way the baby is spiritually prepared for growing up into the Islamic faith.
Then preparations are made for the name-giving ceremony. This is traditionally called a Doepmal in the Western Cape and normally takes place on or before the seventh day after the birth. The Prophet (SAW) commanded naming a newborn on the seventh day. It is recommended not to delay naming the child beyond the seventh day. Bashier and I had a private name giving in the hospital when the twins were 3 days old, and the celebration for family and friends was held when the twins were 8 days.
Traditionally the baby is dressed up in all its finery which includes a medoura (a scarf embroidered with gold/silver thread) and decorated with fresh flowers such as rose buds, orchids or carnations.
At the doepmal, prayers are said for the future protection of the baby and God's blessings are invoked.
Pictured on my left is my Ouma, witnessing her twin great grandchildren. How blessed are we!
A little bit of the baby's hair is cut which symbolises the shaving of the baby's hair in earlier time.
It is customary to pass sugar and dates around after prayers are said. This is to ensure a sweet future for the child.
When the religious ceremony is complete a feast is held.
NAMING THE CHILDREN
It is the infant's vested right to be honoured with a good name. When choosing a name for the child, it should be done with the intention that the child will be blessed with the barakah (blessings) of that name.
It is reported that Rasoolullah (Sallallaahu alayhi Wasallam) said: "Keep the names of prophets".
Parents are encouraged to consult with people of knowledge when deciding on a name for their child. The father, as the leader of the family, has the first right to name the newborn. It is recommended, however, for the father to show kindness to his wife by taking into consideration her suggested names. They should choose the name carefully, ensuring it has a good meaning and has a pleasant utterance.
Naming children after the prophets is highly recommended as they were the best of creation and most righteous of humanity. This was also a practice among earlier generations. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW), himself named his son Ibrahim.
We have named our twins Ibrahim (Abraham) and Ishmail (Ismael), not only named after 2 of the prophets, but also after our beloved Fathers. Bashier’s father’s name is Ibrahim and my father’s name is Ishmail. How appropriate!
Here are a few History bits about the prophets Ibrahim and Ishmail.
May our sons' carry out the meanings of their names and grow up to be pious Muslim men InShAllah (God Willing), Ameen.
Family of 5.
The proud grandfathers Ishmail on the left and Ibrahim on the right.
The proud grandparents.
xxxZ