Name meaning & originJuma جمعة
/JOO-mah/
Juma is a Swahili (from Arabic) boy's name pronounced /JOO-mah/. A popular name traditionally given to a boy born on Friday, symbolizing a day of gathering.
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Meaning of Juma
A popular name traditionally given to a boy born on Friday, symbolizing a day of gathering.
The name Juma is derived from the Arabic word 'Jumu'ah', which translates to 'congregation' or 'gathering'. In Islamic tradition and Swahili culture, it specifically refers to Friday, the holy day of assembly and communal prayer.
- Origin
- Swahili (from Arabic)
- Pronunciation
- /JOO-mah/
Cultural background
It is predominantly used in East Africa, particularly among Swahili-speaking communities in Tanzania and Kenya, traditionally bestowed upon boys born on a Friday.
Variations & nicknames
- Djuma
- Jumaan
- Jumah
- Jumane
- Joman
Famous people named Juma
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Juma Ikangaa
Renowned Tanzanian marathon runner and winner of the 1989 New York City Marathon.
Sport · 1980s-1990s
Juma Kapuya
Tanzanian politician who served as Minister of Defence and National Service.
Politics · 1990s-2010s
Juma Nature
Influential Tanzanian hip hop artist and member of the group TMK Wanaume.
Music · 2000s-present
Juma Kisaame
Prominent Ugandan businessman and former CEO of DFCU Bank.
Business · 2000s-present
Juma Namangani
Uzbek Islamist militant and co-founder of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.
Politics · 1990s-2001
Frequently asked about Juma
- What does Juma mean?
- Juma is a Swahili name of Arabic origin meaning 'Friday' or 'day of gathering'.
- How do you pronounce Juma?
- It is pronounced JOO-mah, with a soft 'j' sound and emphasis on the first syllable.
- Is Juma a boy or girl name?
- Juma is traditionally a masculine name, though female equivalents like Jumaa or Najuma exist in some dialects.
- What is the origin of the name Juma?
- The name originates from the Arabic word for the Friday congregational prayer, adopted into Swahili culture through historical trade and religious influence.
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