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Baby Name

Dawud

Name Meaning

Dawud is an Arabic name that means 'Beloved' or 'Friend'.

Illustration for the name Dawud

Religion

Islamic

Origin

Arabic, Hebrew

Local Language

Arabic: داود Hebrew: דוד

Pronunciation

Dah-wood

Astrology

Gemini

Name Style

Traditional, Biblical

Popularity

Widely popular in Islamic countries: 88/100

Success Person

Prophet Dawud (King David in Abrahamic traditions)

Dawud Name Meaning

Mohammad Parvej Ansari
March 14, 2026

Full Summary: The Enduring Legacy of Dawud

The name Dawud (pronounced Dah-wood) carries profound historical and spiritual weight, resonating deeply within Abrahamic traditions. It is a name synonymous with leadership, divine favor, and artistic expression, making it a timeless choice for many families.

Etymological Roots

Dawud is the Arabic form of the Hebrew name "David" (דָּוִד), which itself is derived from the root דוד (dwd), meaning "beloved" or "darling." This etymology perfectly encapsulates the reverence and affection associated with the central figure bearing this name in religious texts. The transition from Hebrew to Arabic maintains the core phonetic structure and, crucially, the meaning, signifying a person who is cherished and esteemed.

Cultural and Religious Significance

In Islam, Dawud is revered as one of the great prophets (Nabi) and a messenger (Rasul) of God, to whom the holy book Zabur (often identified with the Psalms) was revealed. He is celebrated for his piety, wisdom, courage, and his melodious voice, which was said to make birds and mountains echo his praises of God. His story in the Quran highlights his defeat of Goliath, his kingship, and his just rule. For Muslims, Dawud embodies virtues of faith, justice, and devotion. Similarly, in Judaism and Christianity, David is a pivotal figure—the second king of Israel, an ancestor of the Messiah, renowned for his Psalms, his battle with Goliath, and his establishment of Jerusalem as the capital.

Personality Traits Associated with Dawud

Individuals named Dawud are often perceived to embody characteristics associated with the revered prophet. These may include:

  • Leadership: Inspired by King Dawud's reign.
  • Wisdom & Justice: Reflecting his role as a prophet and judge.
  • Creativity & Artistry: Associated with his beautiful recitation and the Psalms.
  • Courage: Evident in his battle against Goliath.
  • Compassion & Belovedness: Rooted in the name's core meaning.

Numerology and Vibrational Meaning

In numerology, the name Dawud typically reduces to the number 8. The calculation is as follows:

  • D = 4
  • A = 1
  • W = 5
  • U = 3
  • D = 4
  • Total = 4 + 1 + 5 + 3 + 4 = 17
  • Reduced = 1 + 7 = 8

Number 8 is associated with ambition, material success, authority, and good judgment. Individuals with this number tend to be natural leaders, highly organized, and capable of achieving great things through determination and hard work. They often possess a strong sense of justice and are driven to create significant impact in their lives and communities.

Famous Namesakes and Variations

Beyond the revered Prophet Dawud himself, the name and its variations have been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history and in contemporary times. Its enduring popularity across cultures is a testament to its powerful legacy.

  • Prophet Dawud (David): The most famous namesake, central to Islamic, Jewish, and Christian traditions.
  • David: The most common English and Western European variation, with countless famous bearers including kings, artists, and leaders.
  • Dawood: A common transliteration and variation used in many Muslim-majority countries.
  • Daud: Another common transliteration.

The name Dawud continues to be a cherished choice, carrying with it a rich tapestry of history, faith, and noble qualities.

Name Numerology

Chaldean System

3

The Communicator

Creative, social, and expressive. Gifted with words and artistic inspiration.

Pythagorean System

8

The Achiever

Ambitious, authoritative, and successful. Material masters who manifest abundance.

Numerology explores the mystical relationship between names, numbers, and individual character traits.

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