Origin and Meaning of Mahdi

Meaning & Origin

The rightly guided one

Origin: Arabic - Derived from 'Hadi' which means 'to guide'. The term 'Mahdi' is often used in Islamic eschatology to refer to a messianic figure who is expected to arise before the Day of Judgment.

Interesting Facts

  • The name Mahdi has significant religious importance in Islam, particularly among Shia Muslims who believe he is the 12th Imam who went into occultation.
  • The name can also be found in various forms across different Muslim cultures, including Maḥdī, Mehdi, and Mahde.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Mahdi Bazargan, an Iranian politician, and Mahdi Moududi, an influential Islamic philosopher.
  • In recent years, the name Mahdi has seen fluctuating popularity in various countries with Islamic population, often spiking during significant religious events or discussions.
  • Variation of the name include Mehdia (feminine form), and the related name Hadi, which is also used in various cultures.