Siraj

Origin

Siraj is of Arabic origin, derived from the word سراج (siraaj), meaning 'lamp' or 'light'. It historically appears in Islamic texts and is a common given name in Arab-speaking countries, reflecting a metaphor for guidance and illumination.

Meaning

Literal translation as 'lamp' or 'light'. In Australian English, it connotes brightness, enlightenment, or spiritual guidance. Culturally, it may symbolise a guiding light in personal or community contexts.

Pronunciation

/siˈrɑːʒ/ (SIR-azh in Australian English, with emphasis on the second syllable and a soft 'j' sound similar to the 's' in measure).  The 'j' is pronounced as a soft 'zh'.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• Islamic calendar - 15 Ramadan (commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad, known as Mawlid)
• No specific Australian or Christian name days, but celebrated culturally by Muslim communities during Ramadan and Eid festivals.
• Māori celebrations - Rā Whānau (Family Day), which symbolically celebrates community unity, though not directly linked to the name.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with siraj:

• Mohammed and Siraj
• Aisha and Siraj
• Layla and Siraj

Fun Facts

• Siraj is used as a given name in diverse Australian multicultural communities, especially among Arab-Australians and Muslims.
• The name symbolizes guidance and illumination, themes often reflected in cultural artworks and community events in Australia.
• The name is relatively uncommon in mainstream Australian naming but has increased with the growth of multiculturalism.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name siraj:

• Guiding
• Illuminating
• Wise,
• Spiritual
• Leadership qualities attributed in cultural narratives.

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has an elegant and exotic visual appeal, with flowing consonants and vowels that reflect the cultural roots and evoke imagery of light and guidance.

Geographical Distribution

More common in metropolitan areas with significant Arab or Muslim populations such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, particularly within cultural or community-specific settings.

Numerological Significance

Name number 8, associated with power, success, and material achievement, indicating a strong, driven personality. In astrology, aligns with celestial brightness and leadership qualities.

Astrological Connections

Associated with Leo and Sagittarius zodiac signs, which emphasize leadership, illumination, and exploration themes, reflecting the name’s meanings of light and guidance.

Historical Context

The name appears in Islamic cultural history, notably the name of notable figures such as Siraj ud-Daulah, a historical Indian ruler. In Australia, it is associated with the Muslim community and cultural festivities.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts as Seraj in South Asian contexts and is sometimes transliterated as Siraaj or Siraat in different scripts, maintaining phonetic integrity.

Famous People Named siraj

• Siraj Bains (Entrepreneur)
• Siraj Sait (Academic & community leader)
• Fictional characters: used occasionally in local literature and media to depict wise or guiding figures.

Popularity in Australia