The correct answer is None of these. According to historical Islamic accounts and the Seerah (biographical literature), it was his mother, Hazrat Amina (RA), who was divinely inspired to name him Ahmed.
The naming of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is a...
Read More
The correct answer is None of these. According to historical Islamic accounts and the Seerah (biographical literature), it was his mother, Hazrat Amina (RA), who was divinely inspired to name him Ahmed.
The naming of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is a unique event that marks a blend of earthly tradition and celestial guidance. While his grandfather, Hazrat Abdul Muttalib, is widely recognized for bestowing the name "Muhammad" upon him, the name "Ahmed" has a more spiritual and prophetic origin, stemming from the visions experienced by Hazrat Amina during her pregnancy.
Islamic tradition records that during her pregnancy, Hazrat Amina experienced several spiritual signs and dreams. In one such vision, she was informed that she was carrying a child who would be the leader of all nations. She was specifically instructed that upon his birth, she should name him "Ahmed."
The name "Ahmed" is a superlative form of the Arabic root H-M-D, meaning "the most praised" or "one who praises Allah more than anyone else." This name was not just a personal choice but a fulfillment of ancient prophecies. Unlike the name "Muhammad," which became his most public and historical identifier in the streets of Mecca, "Ahmed" was a name deeply rooted in the scriptures that preceded him.
On the seventh day after the Prophet's birth, his grandfather, Hazrat Abdul Muttalib, followed the traditional Arab custom of performing the Aqiqah. He invited the leaders of the Quraish to a banquet to celebrate the arrival of his grandson. When the guests asked what name he had chosen, he replied, "Muhammad."
The Quraish were perplexed because this name was not common among their forefathers. Abdul Muttalib explained his choice by stating that he desired for his grandson to be praised by the Creator in the heavens and by the creation on earth. Thus, while Abdul Muttalib provided the name that would be known throughout history and the Quran, Hazrat Amina provided the name that had been promised in the heavens.
The name "Ahmed" holds a special place in the Holy Quran, specifically in Surah As-Saff (61:6). In this verse, Allah mentions that Prophet Isa (Jesus, AS) gave glad tidings to his followers of a messenger who would come after him, whose name would be "Ahmed."
Many scholars of comparative religion also link this to the "Paraclete" mentioned in the Gospel of John. They argue that the original linguistic root of the term used in those early texts translates most accurately to "the Praised One" or "Ahmed." This highlights that the name "Ahmed" was his identity in the celestial realms and among the previous prophets, long before his physical birth in Mecca.
In the broader context of Islamic history, these two names—Muhammad and Ahmed—represent two sides of the same perfect personality. "Muhammad" is the name associated with his role as a leader, a lawgiver, and a social reformer who was praised by his people for his character (Al-Amin). "Ahmed," on the other hand, represents his spiritual essence and his unparalleled devotion to the worship of Allah.
By understanding that Hazrat Amina was the one who suggested or received the name "Ahmed" through divine inspiration, one gains a deeper appreciation for the sacred nature of the Prophet’s (PBUH) entry into the world. It shows that every detail of his life, beginning with his names, was orchestrated by divine decree to signify his status as the final Messenger.
Discussion
Leave a Comment