| Q & A 03/31/2001 Question: Why are so many Muslims named Mohammed?
Answer: Muslims have a tradition of naming children after prophets, according to Malik Mujahid of Chicago, an imam and founder of Sound Vision, the largest Muslim multimedia company in the United States.
Many Muslims are named Ibrahim, Musa and Isa (Abraham, Moses and Jesus) as well as Mohammed, he said. "These are all considered prophets, and are very common Muslim names."
In some religious traditions, naming children after key figures in the religion is frowned upon, especially if the figure is considered divine in any way. Muslims don't equate the prophet Mohammed with God.
Muslims want their children to have names with good meanings. They hope that a good name will be reflected in their child's character and upbringing.
Prophets are thought to be guides for humanity, which is why their names are often chosen.
Susan Hogan/Albach
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