Rexhep is an Albanian masculine given name, serving as the Albanian form of Rajab, the name of the seventh month in the Islamic calendar. The name Rajab derives from the Arabic root رجب (rajaba), meaning "respect" or "awe." Cultural and Religious Context In Islamic tradition, Rajab is one of the four sacred months during which warfare is prohibited, and it holds special significance as a time for prayer and reflection. The name evokes the sanctity and solemnity associated with this month. In Albania, where Islam is historically predominant among Albanians, using the Albanian form Rexhep integrates cultural identity with religious heritage. Notable Bearers The name Rexhep has been borne by numerous prominent figures in Albanian history and culture. Political leaders include Rexhep Meidani (born 1944), the third President of Albania (1997–2002), and Rexhep Mitrovica (1887–1967), who served as the 18th Prime Minister of Albania. Rexhep Demi (1864–1929) was a key figure in the Albanian independence movement, while Rexhep Krasniqi (1906–1999) was an Albanian-American historian and nationalist. In the arts, Rexhep Ferri (1937–2024) was a notable Kosovo Albanian artist and writer, and Rexhep Qosja (1936–2026) is a distinguished literary critic and academic. Sports figures include Rexhep Maçi (1912–1980), a football player; Rexhep Memini (born 1994), a contemporary footballer; and Rexhep Jusufi, a World War II partisan. Other notable politicians include Rexhep Jella, former mayor of Tirana, and Rexhep Selimi, whose full record includes participation in Kosovo's governance. Related Forms Beyond the Albanian form, Rajab occurs in other languages: Rajab in Arabic, Rajabu in Swahili, and Recep in Turkish. All share the same Arabic origin but are adapted to local phonology and orthography. Meaning: "respect, awe" (derived from the month Rajab) Origin: Albanian form of Arabic Rajab Type: Masculine given name Usage regions: Albania, Kosovo, and Albanian-speaking communities