My given name was Zahra, which is the ‘flower of the desert.’ I don’t look anything like the flower of the desert. My name was changed by my grandfather to Iman, which means ‘have faith.’ And it meant to have faith that a daughter would come.

" My given name was Zahra, which is the ‘flower of the desert.’ I don’t look anything like the flower of the desert. My name was changed by my grandfather to Iman, which means ‘have faith.’ And it meant to have faith that a daughter would come. "
- Iman

The speaker shares her journey from being named Zahra, which symbolizes a desert flower, to having her name changed to Iman by her grandfather, meaning "have faith." The change signifies an evolution in identity and expectation within her family.

This transformation through names highlights the profound influence of cultural heritage and personal growth on one's sense of self. By changing from Zahra to Iman, the speaker's grandfather conveys a significant shift in familial hopes and expectations, emphasizing the hope for the arrival of a daughter and instilling values of faith and perseverance. The name change serves not only as an acknowledgment of the past but also as a guide for future generations, reflecting the deep interplay between cultural traditions and individual experiences.

The quote is attributed to Iman, who shares this personal narrative about her identity's transformation through names. Her reflection provides insight into the rich tapestry of family heritage and the nuanced meanings embedded in cultural practices, making it relatable and thought-provoking for a wide audience.

" My given name was Zahra, which is the ‘flower of the desert.’ I don’t look anything like the flower of the desert. My name was changed by my grandfather to Iman, which means ‘have faith.’ And it meant to have faith that a daughter would come. " - Iman

" My given name was Zahra, which is the ‘flower of the desert.’ I don’t look anything like the flower of the desert. My name was changed by my grandfather to Iman, which means ‘have faith.’ And it meant to have faith that a daughter would come. "
- Iman