Fatwa #463811 January 2002United States of America
What Syed means? Some people add Syedna to the names of Sahabas (RA) and Prophets (AS). I though Syed was used only by the family (children) of Rasool SW.
Question
My family name is Syed as well and I do not know if I am the descendant of Rasool SA or my forefathers just added Syed to the name. My parents do not know that either. Should I remove Syed from my name or continue using it?
Answer
The word, Sayyed, is an Arabic word meaning master, leader, employer, etc.
The word Sayyed as a prefix or suffix to one's name generally implies to be
a descendant of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam). However, that is
not a principle. If you do not know being a descendant of Rasulullah
(Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), you should research that. Nevertheless, there
is no prohibition in your family name being 'Syed' and you do not have to
remove that identity.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.
The word Sayyed as a prefix or suffix to one's name generally implies to be
a descendant of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam). However, that is
not a principle. If you do not know being a descendant of Rasulullah
(Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), you should research that. Nevertheless, there
is no prohibition in your family name being 'Syed' and you do not have to
remove that identity.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.