The Meaning and Significance of the Prophet’s Names: Muhammad and Ahmad

Understanding the Names of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)

MEANINGS OF THE MESSENGER’S (ﷺ) NAMES (MUHAMMAD AND AHMAD)

“‘Muhammad’, is derived from the Arabic word ‘Hamida’. He is called, ‘Muhammad’, because of the abundant good qualities that he has for which he is praiseworthy. ‘Muhammad’, has more meanings that pertain to praiseworthiness than, ‘Mahmud’.

‘Muhammad’, is he who is praised more than other human beings. This is the name mentioned in the original Torah, because of the many good qualities of the Prophet (ﷺ) his religion and his Ummah (Nation), so much so, that Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) wished he was one of Muhammad’s Ummah. We also mentioned evidence that supports this meaning in the aforementioned book.

‘Ahmad’, is also derived from the Arabic infinitive ‘al-‘Hamd’. There are two different meanings for ‘Ahmad’. Some scholars said that it pertains to those who praise and thanks ALLĀH more than others. Therefore, ‘Ahmad’, is he who is the most praising among those who praise ALLĀH.

Another meaning for, ‘Ahmad’, is that he, among all mankind, is the most worthy of praise. In this latter meaning, ‘Ahmad’, becomes like, ‘Muhammad’, in meaning. The difference is that Muhammad indicates that he has abundant qualities for which he is praiseworthy, while Ahmad is he who is praised better than others are praised. Therefore, Muhammad is about quantity and Ahmad is about quality; it is he who deserves more praises and better phrases than that of any other person.

These two names were derived from the Prophet’s qualities and exalted characteristics for which he deserved to be called, ‘Muhammad’, and, ‘Ahmad’. Residents of the heavens, residents of the earth, dwellers of this life, as well as, dwellers of the Hereafter praise Muhammad and Ahmad (ﷺ) on account of his many good qualities that are unending for those who might try to count them.”

{Zād-ul Ma’ād fi Hadyi Khairi-l ‘Ibād || 1/139-140}

Author: IslamicHelper

IslamicHelper

Recent Articles

Jannah & Jahannam: Heaven & Hell in Islam

Explore the profound descriptions of Jannah (Paradise) and Jahannam (Hell) in Islam, drawn from the Quran and authentic Hadith. Discover… Read More

7 days ago

Pre-Marital Questions in Islam

Explore key pre-marital questions and discussions rooted in Islamic principles to ensure compatibility, shared faith, and a blessed Nikah. From… Read More

7 days ago

Islamic Family Values & Practices

Discover the timeless principles of marriage, parenting, kinship, and home life in Islam, drawn from the Quran and authentic Hadith.… Read More

7 days ago

Women’s Health in Islam

Explore how Islam views women's health as a sacred trust, covering menstruation, pregnancy, mental well-being, and more through Quranic verses… Read More

7 days ago

Major Sins in Islam & How to Avoid Them

Explore the major sins (al-Kaba'ir) in Islam, including the seven destructive sins from authentic Hadith. Learn their Quranic warnings, consequences,… Read More

1 week ago

Family in Islam: Sacred Bonds & Values

In Islam, family is the cornerstone of society, offering tranquility, love, and mercy as per Quran 30:21. Explore honoring parents,… Read More

1 week ago