Raheem Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: rah-HEEM //ræˈhiːm//
Origin: Arabic; Urdu
Meaning: Arabic: 'merciful'; Urdu: 'compassionate'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Raheem has its roots in Arabic, derived from the word "rahim," which means "merciful" or "compassionate." This term is often associated with one of the attributes of God in Islamic theology, where it signifies divine mercy. The name is commonly transliterated into various forms, including Rahim, and has been adopted in different cultures and languages, reflecting its significance in religious and cultural contexts.
The transition into English occurred primarily through the influence of Islamic culture and the spread of Arabic language during the medieval period, particularly through trade and scholarship. Historically, the name Raheem has been borne by various notable figures in Islamic history, including scholars and leaders.
The use of the name can be traced back to the early centuries of Islam, with its prominence growing as the religion spread across the Middle East, North Africa, and into parts of Europe and Asia. The name's association with mercy and compassion has made it a favored choice among Muslim families, often reflecting the values they wish to instill in their children.
Additionally, the name appears in various Islamic texts and teachings, reinforcing its significance within the faith. Culturally, Raheem embodies qualities of kindness and benevolence, resonating deeply within Islamic traditions.
The name is often linked to the concept of mercy, which is a central theme in many religious teachings. This connection to compassion has allowed the name to endure through generations, as it reflects a desirable moral characteristic.
In some contexts, diminutive forms such as Rahim or even variations like Raheema may be used, but the core meaning remains intact. Overall, Raheem represents a rich tapestry of linguistic, historical, and cultural significance, making it a name of enduring value.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Raheem was first seen in the United States in 1964. Raheem has ranked as high as #744 nationally, which occurred in 1993, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Raheem has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Raheem (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 15 | |
| FL | 13 | |
| CA | 10 | |
| IL | 9 | |
| OH | 7 | |
| TX | 7 | |
| MN | 7 | |
| GA | 6 | |
| MD | 6 | |
| PA | 5 | |
| VA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1964 | 5 |
| 1969 | 11 |
| 1970 | 15 |
| 1971 | 11 |
| 1972 | 39 |
| 1973 | 51 |
| 1974 | 48 |
| 1975 | 69 |
| 1976 | 67 |
| 1977 | 148 |
| 1978 | 108 |
| 1979 | 117 |
| 1980 | 156 |
| 1981 | 154 |
| 1982 | 127 |
| 1983 | 121 |
| 1984 | 83 |
| 1985 | 89 |
| 1986 | 81 |
| 1987 | 112 |
| 1988 | 105 |
| 1989 | 156 |
| 1990 | 174 |
| 1991 | 217 |
| 1992 | 395 |
| 1993 | 556 |
| 1994 | 384 |
| 1995 | 321 |
| 1996 | 278 |
| 1997 | 223 |
| 1998 | 221 |
| 1999 | 183 |
| 2000 | 169 |
| 2001 | 143 |
| 2002 | 147 |
| 2003 | 121 |
| 2004 | 101 |
| 2005 | 101 |
| 2006 | 120 |
| 2007 | 116 |
| 2008 | 139 |
| 2009 | 121 |
| 2010 | 120 |
| 2011 | 131 |
| 2012 | 128 |
| 2013 | 133 |
| 2014 | 150 |
| 2015 | 152 |
| 2016 | 158 |
| 2017 | 187 |
| 2018 | 170 |
| 2019 | 179 |
| 2020 | 179 |
| 2021 | 156 |
| 2022 | 157 |
| 2023 | 157 |
| 2024 | 136 |