Rehma Name Meaning — Arabic Origin, Girl Name & Details (2025)

Rehma is a beautiful and meaningful name with deep roots in Islamic tradition. Derived from the Arabic language, it carries the profound significance of ‘compassion’ and ‘mercy’—qualities highly valued in Muslim cultures. This name reflects the central Islamic concept of divine mercy and human kindness. Parents choosing this name often hope to instill these virtues in their daughter.

Meaning of Rehma

The name Rehma comes directly from the Arabic word ‘rahma’ (رحمة), which means mercy, compassion, or pity. It originates from the triliteral root ر-ح-م (r-ḥ-m), which appears throughout the Quran and Islamic texts. This root forms related words like ‘Rahman’ (The Most Merciful) and ‘Rahim’ (The Especially Merciful), two of Allah’s primary attributes. In Islamic theology, mercy is considered Allah’s fundamental quality, making names derived from this root particularly significant. The name is used across the Muslim world in various languages including Urdu, Persian, and Turkish, always retaining its core meaning of compassion.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Rehma has its origins in Classical Arabic and Islamic tradition, where mercy (rahma) is a central theological concept. The name gained popularity across the Muslim world as Islamic culture spread through the Middle East, South Asia, and beyond. While commonly used in Arabic-speaking countries, it’s also popular in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other regions with significant Muslim populations. The name reflects the Islamic emphasis on compassion as both a divine attribute and human virtue. Unlike some names that have different meanings across cultures, Rehma consistently maintains its meaning of mercy throughout Islamic naming traditions.

Personality Traits

Those named Rehma are often associated with qualities of empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence. The meaning of their name tends to influence how they’re perceived—as nurturing individuals who naturally extend compassion to others. They may be drawn to helping professions or community service, reflecting their name’s essence. While personality varies by individual, the name carries expectations of warmth and understanding in social interactions.

Similar Names

If you like Rehma, consider: Rahima, Rahim, Rahman, Mariam, Karima

Famous People Named Rehma

• Rahma Ali — Pakistani actress and singer known for her work in Urdu television and music
• Rahma Mohamed — Somali women's rights activist and humanitarian worker

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehma

What does Rehma mean?

Rehma means 'compassion,' 'mercy,' or 'pity' in Arabic. It comes from the root ر-ح-م (r-ḥ-m), which is central to Islamic concepts of divine and human mercy.

Is Rehma a boy or girl name?

Rehma is primarily a girl's name in Muslim naming traditions. While the root appears in masculine names like Rahim and Rahman, Rehma itself is feminine.

What is the origin of Rehma?

Rehma originates from Classical Arabic and Islamic tradition. It's derived from the Arabic word 'rahma' meaning mercy, and is used across the Muslim world in various languages including Urdu and Persian.