Can I Change My Last Name Because It Reminds Me of Severe Childhood Abuse?
Hanafi Fiqh
Answered by Ustadha Raidah Shah Idil
Question: I have undergone extensive trauma therapy to recover from a childhood that has scarred me for life. I have confronted my father about my painful experiences and it was a disaster. Since this confrontation, my last name has triggered anger and resentment because it is associated with my father.
Can I change my last name given the above situation?
Answer: Assalamualaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
I pray this finds you well. Dear sister, I am so sorry to hear about your severe childhood abuse. Wounds like yours run deep, and I applaud you for choosing the path of healing. I pray that when you marry and have children, you will be a wonderful mother and loving wife. May Allah grant you complete healing, and help you stop the cycle of abuse.
Last name
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani has concluded that in exceptional circumstances such as yours, it is permissible for you to change your last name.
May Allah continue to bless your journey of healing. Please keep in touch.
Please refer to the following link:
Can a Woman Take Her Husband’s Surname?
Is it Necessary to Change One’s Name after Becoming Muslim?
Wassalam,
Raidah
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
