Kunyah, Laqab and Shuhrah

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Q 2: What is the meaning of the words Kunya, Laqab and Shuhrah?

A: Kunyah is honorific starting with 'Abu' for men and 'Um' for women such as Abu Muhammad, Abu `Aly and Um Muhammad and Um `Aly. Laqab is a title that denotes honor as Zaynul-`Abidin or dispraise as Anful-Naqah. Shuhrah means what becomes well-known among people of (Part No. 11; Page No. 487) names, Kunyah or Laqab. Q 4: Is it permissible to call a person by the Kunyah of his younger son because his elder son died while he was young? A: It is recommended to call a person by the Kunyah of his elder son whether his son is dead or alive. But if a person calls him by his younger son, he will not be blamed whether his elder son is alive or dead.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.