Prophets in Islam are revered figures who were chosen by Allah ﷻ to guide mankind. Their names are not only sacred but also serve as timeless inspiration for Muslims when naming their children. Whether you’re looking for a powerful name with deep spiritual roots or simply want to connect with Islamic history, the names of Prophets are an excellent starting point.
Who Are the Prophets in Islam?
In the Qur’an, 25 prophets are mentioned by name, though many more were sent to various nations throughout history.
“And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger…”
(Surah An-Nahl 16:36)
These prophets carried the message of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) and guided people toward righteousness. Naming a child after one of these prophets is a way to honor their legacy and invite barakah (blessings) into your child’s life.
Names of Prophets in the Quran (with Meanings)
Here’s a list of 25 Prophets mentioned in the Qur’an, along with a short description and their meanings:
| Name | Arabic | Meaning | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adam | آدم | Earth or Man | First human and prophet |
| Idris | إدريس | Interpreter, Learned | Associated with wisdom |
| Nuh | نوح | Rest, Comfort | Preached for 950 years |
| Hud | هود | Guide | Sent to the people of ‘Aad |
| Salih | صالح | Righteous | Sent to the Thamud people |
| Ibrahim | إبراهيم | Father of Nations | Known as Khalilullah (Friend of Allah) |
| Lut | لوط | Hidden, Covered | Preached to the people of Sodom |
| Ismail | إسماعيل | God will hear | Son of Ibrahim, known for obedience |
| Ishaq | إسحاق | Laughter | Father of Yaqub |
| Yaqub | يعقوب | Successor | Also known as Israel |
| Yusuf | يوسف | God Increases | Known for his beauty and patience |
| Shu’ayb | شعيب | Who shows the right path | Sent to Midian |
| Ayyub | أيوب | Return to God | Known for his patience through suffering |
| Dhulkifl | ذو الكفل | Possessor of Responsibility | Lesser-known, righteous man |
| Musa | موسى | Drawn out of water | Led the Israelites, received the Torah |
| Harun | هارون | Warrior Lion | Brother of Musa |
| Dawud | داوود | Beloved | King and prophet, known for Psalms (Zabur) |
| Sulaiman | سليمان | Peaceful | Known for wisdom and commanding jinn |
| Ilyas | إلياس | My God is Yahweh | Called people away from idol worship |
| Alyasa | اليسع | God is salvation | Successor of Ilyas |
| Yunus | يونس | Dove | Known for the story of the whale |
| Zakariya | زكريا | God remembers | Father of Yahya |
| Yahya | يحيى | He lives | Known for his piety, chastity, and devotion to Allah |
| Isa | عيسى | Jesus | Prophet and messenger, born miraculously |
| Muhammad | محمد | The praised one | Final messenger of Allah ﷻ |
Why Choose a Prophet’s Name for Your Child?
Choosing the name of a prophet for your child offers:
- Spiritual depth: It connects your child to Islamic history and prophetic qualities.
- Timeless value: These names never go out of style.
- Positive associations: All prophets were righteous, patient, and beloved by Allah.
Examples:
- A boy named Yusuf may carry the legacy of patience and beauty.
- A child named Ibrahim may be associated with leadership and strong faith.
Final Thoughts
The prophets are more than historical figures — they are models of faith, patience, and resilience. Naming your child after them is a meaningful way to connect your family to Islam’s timeless legacy.
May the name you choose bring barakah, identity, and spiritual strength to your child, just like the prophets who bore them.