Do names effect the child's character?

Names do not have any effect on the child's character or personality, except that the meaning of the name would inspire him, when he grows old enough to understand its meaning and indication. A good and pleasant name would motivate the person to do good acts and inspire him strength and honor, since he is repeatedly called by it.

For example, if the child is named 'Abdullah' meaning 'a slave of Allah'; his name will make him realize and keep him aware of his servitude to Allah. He will understand his true role and the purpose of life. Likewise, if he is named after the Khalifah Uthmaan Ibn Affan; the character, qualities and actions of Uthmaan Ibn Affan (radhiyallahu anhu) would influence him. It might even lead him to perform actions, which befit his name and prevent those, which conflict its character. Similar is the case with unpleasant names, which denote bad qualities and actions. A bad name might even provoke the person to do evil!!

Before you decide a name for your child, it is good to consider some important details. Know that the name, which you decide for your child will stay with him all through his life, therefore the name you choose should not embarrass or humiliate his personality.

You should bear in mind the different stages of life and give him a name which would sound good as a child, a youth, an adult, a father, etc. and how it would suit the father to be called as, 'Abu foolan' meaning, 'Father of so and so.' Because a name which causes embarrassment or discomfort might be a cause of bad feelings of the child towards his parents.