Davud

Davud is a male given name used in several cultures, especially in Muslim-majority regions. It is derived from the Hebrew name David and has multiple regional spellings, including Dawud (Arabic), Davud (Persian and some Central Asian contexts), Davut or Davutt (Turkish), and Dawood (South Asian). The meaning commonly associated with David is “beloved,” though the exact etymology is debated among scholars.

In Islamic tradition, Dawud is the Qur’anic form of David, revered as a Prophet and king of Israel. He is traditionally associated with the Zabur, the Psalms, and is remembered for justice, leadership, and musical skill. The figure of Dawud appears in religious literature across the Arab and Persian-speaking worlds, as well as in broader Islamic culture.

As a given name, Davud and its variants are used across Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and among diaspora communities in Europe and North America. The spelling often reflects local language conventions, but the pronunciation and cultural associations are broadly linked to the biblical David.

Notable people named Davud come from diverse fields, including politics, literature, sports, and the arts, reflecting the name’s widespread adoption in different regions. In onomastic studies, Davud is cited as an example of how biblical and Qur’anic names travel across cultures, adapting to local languages while retaining a shared historical and religious resonance.