Estranged from husband, can I give my child my own last name?
I just wanted to ask if its essential to name the baby last name as the father surname.
I am estranged from my husband (see previous post: My husband abandoned me for the second time during pregnancy).
He was not there to register the birth certificate name previously nor will he be there this time, as he has no interest in his children.
As he is an English convert, he kept his English name. I wanted to give my children an Arabic surname, so I gave them my grandfather's name. And not just cause of sentimental value but because i just really like the name and its meaning..
Is this allowed?
- mia786
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As-salamu alaykum sister Mia.
No, you cannot do this. Even though you and your husband are separated, and even though he was not there to register the baby's name or help you raise the child, he is still the child's father. Islam places great emphasis on biological connections. The Quran says in 33:5:
"Call them by [the names of] their fathers; it is more just in the sight of Allah. But if you do not know their fathers – then they are [still] your brothers in religion and those entrusted to you. And there is no blame upon you for that in which you have erred but [only for] what your hearts intended. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful."
If you name them after your side of the family, it implies that they were born out of wedlock and that their father is not known. Anyone who understands the Islamic naming system will think your children are illegitimate.
Their given names (their first names) are up to you. Give them Arabic, Islamic names. But the last name should be the name of the father, even if it is an English name.
Wael
IslamicAnswers.com Editor
I am in a similar situation that your children are/will be in. My mother did not give me my father's last name. I am considering changing it because I feel like I am living a lie. I also know that I will be referred to as "______daughter of ______" on Judgement Day. So, please realize that either now or later your children will be referred to as his children.
Salaams
Salam,
Would it be his first name or surname?
Thanks