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Istifa

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Meaning

Selection

Linguistic Origin

Arabic

Islamic Classification

Quranic

Regional Usage

Worldwide Muslim usage

Global Spellings

Arabic استيفا
Urdu استغفار
Persian استیفا
Turkish İstifa
Bengali ইস্তিফা
Pashto استغفار

Alternate Spellings

If you are looking for a strong and significant name for your son, Istifa is a standout choice. The name holds the profound meaning of 'Selection', reflecting qualities that parents often wish to bestow upon their child.

While popular in Arabic regions, Istifa has a modern appeal that transcends borders. It is an excellent choice for a modern Muslim family honoring tradition.

Istifa comes from the Arabic root s-f-w, the same root behind "Al-Mustafa," the Chosen One, an epithet of the Prophet ﷺ.

Reference Profile

Etymology

From the Arabic root ص-ف-و (ṣ-f-w, 'to be pure, chosen'). Istifa means 'selection, being chosen' - related to Mustafa, 'the Chosen One,' an honorific title of the Prophet Muhammad.

Quranic Connection

Istifa is divine election: 'Indeed, Allah chose Adam and Nuh and the family of Ibrahim and the family of Imran over the worlds' (3:33).

Cultural / Regional Usage

Used across the Muslim world.