HOME > Rehman Last Name Origin
Introduction
The last name Rehman is a common surname in many parts of the world, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East. Like many other last names, Rehman has an interesting origin and history that can shed light on the cultural and social context of its bearers. In this article, we will explore the meaning and genealogy of the name Rehman, as well as its variations and notable individuals who bear the name.
Meaning and Origin of Rehman
The last name Rehman is derived from the Arabic word 'rahman', which means 'merciful' or 'compassionate'. In Islamic tradition, Rahman is one of the 99 names of Allah, and is often used as a first name for boys. The last name Rehman is therefore an honorific title that signifies a person's connection to the divine qualities of mercy and compassion. The name Rehman is also found in other languages, such as Urdu, Persian, and Punjabi, where it is spelled differently but has the same meaning.
Variations of Rehman
The last name Rehman has several variations, depending on the region and language. In Arabic, the name is spelled 'Rahman' or 'Rahim', while in Urdu and Punjabi it is spelled 'Rehman' or 'Rahman'. In Persian, the name is spelled 'Rahmane' or 'Rahmani'. Other variations of the name include 'Rahmanzai' and 'Rahmanian', which are common in Afghanistan and Iran respectively. Despite these variations, the meaning and origin of the name remain the same.
Genealogy of Rehman
The last name Rehman is found in many parts of the world, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East. In Pakistan, for example, Rehman is the 7th most common last name, while in India it is the 11th most common. The name is also found in other countries such as Bangladesh, Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey. The genealogy of the name Rehman can be traced back to the Islamic prophet Muhammad, who had a companion named Abdur Rahman. Many of Muhammad's followers adopted the name Rahman as a first name, and later as a last name. Over time, the name spread to other parts of the Muslim world and became a common last name.
Notable Individuals with the Last Name Rehman
There are many notable individuals who bear the last name Rehman, both in history and in contemporary times. Some of these individuals include: 1. Abdul Rehman Khan - the last Emir of Afghanistan, who ruled from 1901 to 1919. 2. Abdur Rahman Chughtai - a Pakistani painter and artist, known for his modernist style and use of Islamic motifs. 3. Rehman Malik - a Pakistani politician and former Interior Minister, who played a key role in the fight against terrorism. 4. Rehman Sobhan - a Bangladeshi economist and founder of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, a leading think tank in South Asia. 5. Rehman Rashid - a Malaysian writer and journalist, known for his works on Malaysian politics and culture. These individuals, and many others like them, have contributed to the fields of politics, art, literature, and economics, and have helped to shape the cultural and social landscape of their respective countries.
Conclusion
The last name Rehman has a rich and diverse history, spanning many centuries and cultures. Its meaning and origin can be traced back to Islamic tradition, where it was used as an honorific title for those who embodied the qualities of mercy and compassion. Today, the name is found in many parts of the world, and is associated with individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Whether as a first name or a last name, Rehman remains a powerful symbol of the enduring values of Islam and the human spirit.
