Question:
As-salam alaykum :
I am a revert since 2013 and live in the United States. Is it necessary to change your name upon accepting Islam? My name is [private] and I am a Registered Nurse so changing my name legally will be difficult since I have a practice tied to my name. I have read that the Persians did not change their names and that the Prophet (PBUH) only changed the names of his companions when it was related to paganism. My name means one who has Christ in his heart and Jesus Christ (PBUH) is a revered prophet but I fear my name may be placing worship of Christ in this context.
Answer:
Alaykum Salam,
No need to change it on paper. When in the mosque or Muslim community you can use the name Mustapha. Which is the attribute of our Prophet Muhammad (s) and means Chosen.
Hajj Gibril Haddad
