Question
Assalamu Alaikum. I am considering the name “Zimal” for my baby daughter. I have found conflicting information online about its meaning and Islamic permissibility. One Darul Ifta Deoband fatwa (Ref. No. 1591/43-1148) says that Zimal (زمل) means “burden” and recommends choosing another name. Other sources give completely different meanings, including garment/covering. Could you please verify the exact Arabic spelling, linguistic meaning, whether this is an established female personal name, and whether there is any Islamic objection to naming a Muslim girl Zimal? I would particularly appreciate a response based on authoritative Arabic dictionaries and classical Islamic sources rather than baby-name websites. Jazakum Allahu Khairan.
Islamic Ruling & Answer
Walekumussalam,
In Arabic dictionaries, the word “Zimal” is used as “Zamal (زمل)” rather than “Zimal.” Ziml (زِمْل), with a kasrah on the zā’ and a sākin mīm, means burden, weak, lazy, or inferior. Zumal (زُمَل), with a ḍammah on the zā’ and a fatḥah on the mīm, means cowardly, weak, or despicable. Therefore, it is not appropriate to give this name.
However, Zamal (زَمَل), with a fatḥah on both the zā’ and lām, carries the meaning of speed/quickness. This root can also convey the meanings of following someone, carrying someone behind oneself on a riding animal, or being someone’s companion. In this sense, giving the name Zamal (زَمَل) is permissible.
Nevertheless, it is better to choose a girl’s name from among the names of the Mothers of the Believers (wives of the Prophet ﷺ) and the female Companions (رضي الله عنهن), or at least to choose an Arabic name with a good and appropriate meaning.
And Allah knows best.
You should see this:
Answered by
Mufti Tosif Qasmi
August 31, 2026
Researched & verified under our editorial & answer-review policy.
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