Bearing the name 'Ra'uf'

Q: I would like to inform you that I have consulted the principality of Riyadh to obtain a birth certificate for my son (Ra'uf `Esam `Abdur-Rahim Isma'il), but they answered that they have never come across this name and it must be changed, otherwise I have to get a Fatwa from Shaykhs saying that it is permissible to name my son Ra'uf. So, we refer this issue to Your Eminence to get your Fatwa in this regard. May Allah bless you and your effort and reward with the best!

A: There is nothing wrong in naming your son Ra'uf, as it is not one of the names peculiar to Allah (Exalted be He) that are forbidden for anyone else. Allah (Exalted be He) named His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) with this name in the Qur'anic verse that reads: (Part No. 10; Page No. 493) Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to Allâh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the punishment of the Hell-fire); for the believers (he صلى الله عليه وسلم is) full of pity, kind, and merciful. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.