The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “He who has a child born to him should give him a good name and a good education…” This hadith highlights the importance of intentionality and meaning behind the names we choose for our children. This principle applies to the names we give our organizations and initiatives as well. Just as a good name for a child sets the stage for a blessed future, a thoughtfully chosen name for an organization can powerfully communicate its mission and values.

This reminds me of when I was naming my firstborn, my son Jamal Ahmed Mirza. Initially, I thought it would be grand to name him Hanif and take the kunya Abu Hanif! But my mother had her heart set on another name that held deep meaning and significance for her: Jamal. Seeing her heartfelt desire, I consulted with scholars of faith. One of my dear friends and teachers, when asked what our Shaykh would say, replied, “He would say listen to your mother.” Another scholar advised, “Name him Jamal Ahmed with the intention to honor both the beautiful attributes of God and His beloved messenger (peace be upon him).” It was indeed the right course and the best outcome.

Similarly, when we sought to establish an institution to connect our children to faith-guided character, morality, and education, we chose the name “Sanad” in honor of the sacred tradition of preserving knowledge through an unbroken chain of transmission, from teacher to student, reaching back to that divine moment in the Cave of Hira and ascending to the heavens.

Names and meanings, goals and objectives, mission and vision—these are all words imbued with intentions that matter. At Sanad Trust Foundation, we embrace this prophetic guidance, recognizing that our name, “Sanad,” also meaning “support” or “reliance,” reflects our core commitment to providing a strong foundation for individuals, families, and communities. Our refreshed branding, with its updated color palette and font choices, builds upon this foundation, visually expressing our dedication to nurturing growth, seeking knowledge, and embodying excellence, all inspired by the teachings of Islam.

Walking in the Footsteps of the Prophet (peace be upon him)

At the heart of our logo lies a subtle yet powerful symbol: the outline of the prophetic sandal (na’l). Historical accounts detail the simple sandals worn by the Prophet, reflecting his humble character. Within this sandal, we’ve incorporated the image of a blooming flower. This symbolizes the flourishing that occurs when we walk the path of faith, knowledge, and good character.

By incorporating this motif, we express our deep reverence for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and our commitment to following his exemplary model in all aspects of our lives. Just as the sandal leaves an imprint on the earth, we strive to leave a gentle and positive impact on the world by embodying the Prophetic values of compassion, generosity, and service.

The sandal also symbolizes our journey towards knowledge and spiritual growth. Each step we take, guided by the light of faith and knowledge, brings us closer to our ultimate goal of pleasing Allah and attaining success in this life and the hereafter.

The Depths of Blue

The deep blue in our refreshed branding evokes the vastness of oceans, rivers, and the sky—sources of life-giving rain. This symbolizes the profound responsibility and boundless opportunities we have in seeking knowledge, both worldly and sacred. It echoes the Quranic verse: “Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “If the ocean were ink for ˹writing˺ the Words of my Lord, it would certainly run out before the Words of my Lord were finished, even if We refilled it with its equal.” (18:109) Just as the ocean’s depths are immeasurable, so too is the potential for growth and learning within individuals and communities.

The Radiance of Gold

Gold, a color newly introduced in our branding, is often associated with divine light. It symbolizes the illuminating guidance of Allah’s Deen and the radiant character of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It represents the pursuit of knowledge, spiritual enlightenment, and moral excellence. The Quran beautifully captures this concept of ever-increasing light:

“…Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills…” (Quran 24:35)

This phrase from the “Verse of Light” speaks of a radiant, layered illumination, symbolizing the increasing levels of knowledge and understanding that can be attained through faith and the pursuit of knowledge. Gold further reflects the light of the sun, a source of life and energy, reminding us of Allah’s blessings and the importance of seeking “nur” (light) in our lives.

Growth and Beauty in Green

Green, a central color in our updated palette, represents the flourishing that occurs when knowledge, divine light, and guidance converge within individuals, families, communities, and even our organization. It is knowledge made manifest, growth nurtured, and success achieved through divine grace.

This resonates with the Quranic verse: “If all the trees on earth were pens and the ocean ˹were ink˺, refilled by seven other oceans, the Words of Allah would not be exhausted. Surely Allah is Almighty, All-Wise.” (31:27)

A Flow & Foundation: Our Font Choices

Just as our colors hold deep meaning, our font choices further reflect our values and aspirations. The font selected for “Sanad” is intentionally varied in weight, with a human touch to its flow. This symbolizes the journey of seeking knowledge and growing—whether as a child, adult, elder, or organization. It is a path that is varied yet always moving forward.

In contrast, “Trust Foundation” is written in a modern, uniform font that conveys strength and stability. This signifies that our growth and journeys are founded on the bedrock of faith-based, Prophetic guidance that has withstood the test of time.

What’s in a Name? Everything.

I’ve learned that names matter, there is a world within them. Whether you are a parent, a businessperson, an institution builder, a leader, a student, or a teacher, I invite you to reflect on the names and meanings that shape your life. Consider your own name, its origins, and the qualities it embodies. Look at the institutions you lead, work for, or interact with every day. Perhaps you too will discover how the deeper meaning of things affects how we engage with them, benefit from them, and contribute to their growth. I think we should strive to infuse our lives and endeavors with intention and purpose, guided by faith and knowledge. What about you?

Until the next step,

Rehan