Hawwa

Hawwa (Arabic: حواء), also transliterated Hawwah, Hawwa, or Hawa, is the name used in Islamic and Arabic-language traditions for the first woman, identified as the wife of Adam and the mother of humankind. In Jewish and Christian scriptures her counterpart is Eve (Hebrew: Chava). The Qur’an does not name Adam’s wife, but Islamic tradition commonly uses Hawwa for her.

Etymology: The name Hawwa is commonly linked to the Hebrew Eve, Chava, from a root meaning life or living, reflecting the view of Eve as the mother of all living. In Arabic, Hawwa is formed from similar patterns and is widely associated with life and creation.

Narrative role: The core elements of Hawwa’s story differ across traditions. In the biblical account, Eve is created from Adam’s rib and, with him, disobeys God by eating from the forbidden tree, leading to the Fall. In Islamic narratives, Hawwa is created as Adam’s partner; she and Adam are tempted by Satan to eat from the forbidden tree, but they repent and are forgiven, and both descend to earth. Details vary among sources, but Hawwa is generally regarded as the first woman and the mother of humanity.

Cultural significance: Hawwa has a lasting presence in religious, literary, and artistic traditions in Muslim-majority societies. The name Hawwa (and its variants) remains a common given name for girls in many Arab and Muslim communities, symbolizing motherhood and origin.

See also: Eve, Adam and Eve, Chava.