Balqis

Balqis is a feminine given name widely used in Arabic-speaking and Muslim communities. The name is commonly rendered as Balqis, Bilqis, or Balkis and is closely associated with the legendary Queen of Sheba. As a personal name, Balqis carries connotations of royalty, wisdom, and nobility in many cultural contexts.

Etymology and origins of the name are not definitively established, but Balqis is traditionally linked to the Queen of Sheba, a monarch described in various religious and literary traditions as ruling a prosperous realm in the southern Arabian Peninsula or the Horn of Africa. In Islamic tradition, the queen is often called Bilqis (Balqis) and is presented as a ruler who interacted with the Prophet Solomon.

Historical and religious references: The Queen of Sheba appears in biblical and Qur’anic narratives as a sovereign who visits Solomon to test his wisdom or to exchange gifts. In later Islamic literature, she is named Bilqis and her story is elaborated with themes of diplomacy, wealth, and eventual recognition of monotheism. The figure is a common subject in art, literature, and popular culture, where Balqis is sometimes depicted as a symbol of beauty, power, or enlightened leadership.

Modern usage: Balqis remains a popular given name across Arab countries and in Muslim communities worldwide. Variants in spelling reflect transliteration differences, including Bilqis and Balkis. The name also appears in contemporary media, literature, and branding, often drawing on its royal associations.