Ruqiya

Ruqiya is a feminine given name of Arabic origin. It is commonly transliterated as Ruqayya, Ruqayya, Ruqaiyah, Ruqiya, Ruqqiya, and other variants, reflecting differences in Arabic pronunciation and regional transliteration. The name is widely used among Muslim communities in the Arab world, South Asia, East Africa, and among diaspora populations.

Etymology and meaning: Ruqiya is typically treated as a variant of Ruqayya, a name associated with Arabic roots linked to ascent or exaltation in some traditions. The exact meaning can vary by linguistic and cultural context, and the name is often chosen for its historical and religious associations rather than a single fixed translation.

Usage and distribution: The name enjoys broad usage across diverse Arabic-speaking and Muslim-majority communities. Spelling variations arise from local phonology, transliteration practices, and personal or familial preference. It is commonly encountered in literature, religious history, and modern naming practices.

Notable people: Ruqayyah bint Muhammad, also transliterated Ruqayya, was one of the daughters of the Prophet Muhammad. Her historical presence contributes to the name’s prominence in Islamic cultural memory and naming traditions.

Disambiguation: The term ruqyah (often transliterated ruqiya) refers to the Islamic practice of reciting Quranic verses and supplications for healing or protection. While etymologically related in Arabic, it is distinct from the given name Ruqiya.