Zeliha is a Turkish feminine given name, a variant of Züleyha. Züleyha itself is the Turkish form of Zuleika, a name of uncertain origin, possibly from Arabic. The name is deeply rooted in Islamic and literary tradition, as it is traditionally associated with the biblical figure of Potiphar's wife, known in the Quran as Zuleikha (often spelled Zulaykha in Arabic). The story of Zuleikha and the prophet Joseph (Yusuf) is a celebrated tale of love, temptation, and devotion, immortalized by the 15th-century Persian poet Jami in his work Haft Awrang (Seven Thrones). In this narrative, Zuleikha's unwavering love for Joseph, despite rejection and hardship, becomes a symbol of spiritual longing and redemption. Etymology and Linguistic Context The name Zeliha emerges as a Turkish variant within a broader family of names found across the Islamic world. The Turkish adaptation Züleyha preserves the original Arabic pronunciation closely, while Zeliha represents a simplified phonetic form common in Turkish naming practices. The name is also found in various forms such as Zulaykha in Arabic, Zoulikha in Maghrebi contexts, Züleyxa in Azerbaijani, and Zulekha in Urdu. These variations reflect the name's wide geographical spread and cultural resonance. The etymological root, Zuleika, is believed to have Arabic origins, though its exact meaning remains uncertain—it has been linked to words connoting brilliance, purity, or beauty, though such interpretations are speculative. Notable Bearers In modern Turkey, Zeliha is borne by several notable women in diverse fields:[^1] Zeliha Ağrıs (born 1998), a Turkish taekwondo practitioner who has competed internationally. Zeliha Atıcıoğlu (born 1963), an Azerbaijani-born sport shooter representing Turkey, winner of multiple medals at European championships and the Mediterranean Games. Zeliha Şimşek (born 1981), a Turkish women's footballer who played for clubs including Fenerbahçe and the Turkish national team. These figures highlight the name's contemporary prevalence in Turkey, spanning sports and athletics. Cultural and Religious Significance The story of Zuleikha, which underlies the name Zeliha, is integral to Islamic culture and Sufi mysticism. In the Quran (Surah Yusuf), the wife of Aziz (Potiphar's title) is not named, but Islamic tradition identifies her as Zuleikha. Her narrative, expanded by poets like Jami, becomes a parable of transformative love that leads from infatuation to divine union. This theme has inspired numerous works in Turkish, Persian, Urdu, and other Islamic literatures. As a result, names rooted in this story, including Zeliha, carry connotations of beauty, passionate loyalty, and spiritual yearning. Key Facts Meaning: Derives from Züleyha/Zuleika, traditionally associated with Potiphar's wife in Islamic and Persian literature. Origin: Turkish variant of Züleyha, ultimately from possibly Arabic Zuleika. Type: Feminine given name. Usage regions: Primarily Turkey; also recognized in other Turkic and Islamic contexts through related forms. [^1]: Wikipedia contributors, "Zeliha," Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeliha (accessed April 2025).