Meaning & History
Dawud is a male given name and the Arabic form of David, derived from the Hebrew name Dawiḏ meaning "beloved." It is used across the Muslim world and appears in the Quran as the name of the prophet and king David (Dawud). The name is also found in various transliterations such as Daoud, Daud, and Dawood.
Etymology and Religious Significance
Rooted in the Semitic triconsonantal root d-w-d, meaning "beloved" or "uncle," the name Dawud carries connotations of endearment. In Islam, Dawud is revered as a prophet and messenger of Allah, known for his wisdom, justice, and his defeat of Goliath (Jalut). The Quran recounts his story in several surahs (e.g., Surah Al-Baqara, Surah Al-Anbiya), emphasizing his role as a king and a psalmist. He is also considered an ancestor of Jesus (Isa), linking Abrahamic traditions.
Notable Bearers and Cultural Context
The name Dawud has been borne by many notable figures across history. Among them is the founder of the Dawoodi Bohra sect (though the exact historical details vary). In modern times, bearers include Daud Abdullah (a Grenadian-British scholar), Daud Beureu'eh (an Acehnese military leader), and Dawda Bah (a Gambian footballer). The name remains popular in Arabic-speaking countries and among Muslim communities worldwide.
Related Forms
Dawud has numerous variant spellings across languages: Daud is common in Persian and Urdu, Dawood is frequently used among South Asian Muslims, and Davut appears in Turkish. In non-Arabic Muslim regions, forms such as Dawit (Amharic) and Davud (Persian) are also encountered.
- Meaning: Beloved, dear
- Origin: Arabic, from Hebrew David
- Type: First name
- Usage: Arabic-speaking and Muslim-majority regions
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Daud