Islam Warns Against Adding Husband's Name at the End of Wife's Name

In a world where societal norms and personal identities are constantly evolving, the tradition of a wife adopting her husband's surname remains prevalent in many cultures. However, within the framework of Islamic teachings, this practice raises significant concerns. Scholars and religious leaders are increasingly emphasizing the importance of preserving individual identities, particularly for women, as a reflection of Islamic principles.

Islamic jurisprudence, or Sharia, places a strong emphasis on the protection of one's lineage and identity. This is rooted in the belief that every individual is accountable for their own deeds and actions. By taking on her husband's surname, a woman might inadvertently obscure her lineage, which is contrary to the teachings of Islam. The Quran and Hadiths provide clear guidelines on the significance of maintaining one's familial name.

A prominent Hadith narrated by Abu Dharr quotes the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as saying: "Whoever claims to belong to someone other than his father, or attributes himself to someone other than his father, he will be cursed by Allah, the angels, and all the people." This underscores the importance Islam places on lineage and the prohibition against attributing oneself to a different family line.

Religious scholars argue that the adoption of a husband's surname by a wife could lead to confusion and a misrepresentation of her true heritage. This practice may inadvertently undermine the Islamic principle that emphasizes individual responsibility and identity. By maintaining her maiden name, a woman not only preserves her own lineage but also upholds the integrity of her personal and familial identity.

Furthermore, the practice of a wife taking her husband's surname is not mandated by Islamic law. In fact, historical records from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) show that women retained their family names even after marriage. The wives of the Prophet, including Khadijah bint Khuwaylid and Aisha bint Abi Bakr, are notable examples of women who retained their maiden names throughout their lives.

In modern contexts, the issue often intersects with cultural practices and legal systems. In many Western countries, changing one's surname upon marriage is a common practice, sometimes even legally required. However, for Muslims adhering to their faith, it becomes a matter of balancing religious obligations with societal expectations.

Islamic scholars encourage Muslims to educate themselves about the religious implications of name changes after marriage. They advocate for a return to the practice of preserving one's birth name, as this aligns with the principles laid out in Islamic teachings. This approach not only respects the individual's lineage but also reinforces the importance of personal accountability and identity within the Islamic faith.

In conclusion, while the practice of adopting a husband's surname is widespread, it is not rooted in Islamic tradition. Islam emphasizes the preservation of one's identity and lineage, urging women to retain their maiden names after marriage. As societal norms continue to evolve, it is crucial for Muslims to remain informed about their religious obligations and to uphold the principles of their faith in all aspects of life.