Rahman (also spelled Rehman) is a Arabic, Bengali, Indonesian, Malay, Pashto, and Persian name meaning "merciful" in Arabic. It is derived from the triconsonantal root R-Ḥ-M, which conveys compassion and mercy. In Islamic tradition, الرحمٰن (al-Raḥmān), "The Most Gracious" or "The Most Merciful," is one of the 99 names of Allah (God) and also appears as the title of the 55th chapter (Surah) of the Quran. Etymology and Linguistic Background The name Rahman originates from the Arabic root R-Ḥ-M, which also yields words like rahma (mercy) and rahim (womb). The Quranic phrase Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim — "In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful" — uses both Rahman and Rahim as divine attributes, with Rahman emphasizing boundless mercy. In Persian and Urdu, the name is also rendered as Rehman. The nisba form Rehmani (meaning "descendant of the gracious one") is used as a surname among some Muslim communities. Cultural and Religious Significance As a theophoric name, Rahman is widely used by Muslims around the world. In Bengali and Indonesian naming traditions, it is common as both a given name and a surname, reflecting the profound Islamic value of divine mercy. Among Pashtuns in India and Pakistan, Rahman is also a surname associated with the Sayyid lineage — a community claiming descent from the Prophet Muhammad. A notable modern bearer is A.R. Rahman (born 1967), the legendary Indian composer and musician, whose works like the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire score brought the name global fame. Notable Bearers A. R. Rahman (born 1967) – Indian music composer, singer, songwriter, and cultural icon known for blending Indian classical music with electronic and world music. Aarif Lee (born Aarif Rahman, 1987) – Chinese-Canadian singer, songwriter, and actor active in Hong Kong's Cantopop scene. Amrah bint Abdul Rahman (died 717) – Early Islamic scholar from Medina, known for her transmission of hadiths from Aisha bint Abu Bakr. Emomali Rahmon (born 1952) – President of Tajikistan since 1992, whose surname derives from the same Arabic root. Variant Forms and Distribution In Azerbaijani, the name appears as Rəhman. Turkish has Rahmi, a related form emphasizing mercy. The name is common throughout the Muslim world, from South Asia to the Middle East and Southeast Asia, reflecting the universal Islamic reverence for the Divine attribute of mercy. According to historical records, Rahman has been used as both a first name and surname in Arabic-speaking countries for centuries, and its popularity has spread with global migration. Meaning: "Merciful" or "Gracious" Origin: Arabic Type: Theophoric name, masculine first name and surname Usage: Arabic, Bengali, Indonesian, Malay, Pashto, Persian Related Names: Rehman (Urdu), Rəhman (Azerbaijani), Rahmi (Turkish)