Welcoming a child into the world is one of Allah’s greatest blessings. Alongside the joy of becoming parents comes the responsibility of raising your child upon Islam from the very beginning. One of the first Sunnahs after the birth of a child is to choose a good Islamic name and perform the Aqiqah.
At Mufti Qasim Zia, we provide authentic Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah guidance on Aqiqah and Islamic baby naming according to the Qur’an, the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, and the understanding of the righteous scholars. Whether you are preparing for your baby’s birth or your child has recently been born, we are here to guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
What Is Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is the Sunnah practice of expressing gratitude to Allah for the blessing of a newborn child. It involves offering an animal in sacrifice, giving the child a good Islamic name, shaving the baby’s head, and making du’a for the child’s wellbeing.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Every child is held in pledge by his Aqiqah. It should be offered on the seventh day, the child’s head should be shaved, and the child should be given a name.”— Sunan Abu Dawud, Jami’ al-Tirmidhi
Although Aqiqah is not obligatory according to the majority of scholars, it is a highly recommended Sunnah and an excellent way to begin your child’s life with gratitude, charity, and obedience to Allah.
Why Is Aqiqah and Choosing a Good Name Important?
In Islam, a name is more than simply a way to identify someone. A person’s name becomes part of their identity and accompanies them throughout their life. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged Muslims to choose beautiful and meaningful names with good Islamic significance.
Likewise, Aqiqah is an act of worship that expresses thanks to Allah for the gift of a child. It also provides an opportunity to feed family, relatives, neighbours, and those in need, strengthening community ties and sharing the joy of the new arrival.
Following these beautiful Sunnahs helps parents begin their child’s journey upon Islamic values from the earliest days of life.
Our Aqiqah & Naming Guidance Service
Every family has different questions and circumstances. Our role is to provide reliable Islamic guidance based upon the teachings of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
Our guidance includes:
- Choosing a meaningful Islamic name
- Understanding the Sunnah of Aqiqah
- Guidance on the recommended time for Aqiqah
- Advice regarding the number of animals to sacrifice
- Guidance on shaving the baby’s head
- Information about charity related to the hair
- Answering your questions according to authentic Islamic teachings
Whether you are expecting your first child or adding another member to your family, we provide clear and practical advice suited to your circumstances.
Why Seek Guidance from Mufti Qasim Zia?
Many parents receive conflicting advice from family traditions, cultural practices, or information found online. Not all of this guidance reflects authentic Islamic teachings. Seeking advice from a qualified Mufti helps ensure your decisions are based upon reliable scholarship rather than common misconceptions.
Mufti Qasim Zia provides personalised guidance rooted in the Qur’an, the authentic Sunnah, and the understanding of the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah. Every consultation is handled with care, respect, and sensitivity, allowing parents to ask questions freely and receive clear, practical answers.
Our aim is to help families observe these beautiful Sunnahs correctly while avoiding practices that have no basis in Islam.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should Aqiqah be performed?
The Sunnah is to perform Aqiqah on the seventh day after the child’s birth if possible. If this is not feasible, it may be performed later according to the guidance of qualified scholars.
How many animals are sacrificed for Aqiqah?
According to the Sunnah, two sheep or goats are recommended for a baby boy and one for a baby girl. If circumstances make this difficult, parents should seek guidance based on their individual situation.
Can I choose any name for my baby?
Islam encourages parents to choose names with good meanings that reflect Islamic values. It is recommended to avoid names with inappropriate meanings or those that contradict Islamic beliefs.
Is shaving the baby’s head part of the Sunnah?
Yes. Shaving the baby’s head is one of the recommended Sunnahs associated with Aqiqah. Many scholars also recommend giving charity equivalent to the weight of the hair in silver, where possible.
How can Mufti Qasim Zia help?
Mufti Qasim Zia offers trusted Islamic guidance on Aqiqah, baby naming, and related rulings. Whether you need advice on selecting a suitable name, understanding the Sunnah, or clarifying specific questions, you can receive personalised guidance based on authentic Islamic teachings.
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Welcome Your Child According to the Sunnah
The birth of a child is a precious blessing and an opportunity to follow the beautiful teachings of Islam from the very beginning. If you would like trusted guidance on Aqiqah, choosing an Islamic name, or understanding the relevant Islamic rulings, Mufti Qasim Zia is here to help.
Contact us today to receive authentic Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah guidance and begin your child’s journey with the blessings of the Qur’an and Sunnah.