Origin and Meaning of Hanifa

Meaning & Origin

Sincere, true, righteous

Origin: Arabic - Derived from the Arabic root 'ح ن ف' (H-N-F), meaning 'to be sincere' or 'to turn away from idolatry.'

Interesting Facts

  • The name Hanifa is often used in Islamic contexts, embodying qualities of faithfulness and righteousness.
  • In addition to Arabic-speaking countries, the name is also found among Muslim communities worldwide, including South Asian and African regions.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Hanifa al-Amin, a prominent 20th-century Islamic scholar and activist.
  • While not among the most popular names in the Western world, it has gained attention in recent years due to the increase in multicultural names and interest in Islamic culture.
  • Variations of the name include Hanifah (more common in some cultures) and its masculine form, Hanif.