and ʿAbd al-Rahman.’ Because of this alteration of names, an entire generation has grown up with Western names, creating a rift between it and the earlier generations and severing the familiarity among families that had long been known by their traditional names.

10- Still another manifestation of allegiance to the unbelievers is asking forgiveness for them and invoking mercy upon them. Allah has forbidden this, saying, “It is not for the Prophet and those who believe to seek forgiveness for the polytheists, even though they be close relatives, after it has become clear to them that they are companions of the Fire.”⦗1⦘ Such a supplication necessarily entails loving them and approving what they follow.