Subhi
The exact name Subhi is not in the Quran, but the root word 'Subh' (morning) appears frequently, such as in Surah Al-An'am (6:96) where Allah is described as bringing forth the dawn.
Yes, Subhi (or Subiri) is found among Swahili-speaking Muslims along the East African coast, reflecting centuries of Islamic trade and cultural exchange with Arab merchants.
It symbolizes the morning prayer (Fajr), new beginnings, divine light overcoming darkness, and the freshness of faith renewed each day.
While traditionally masculine, Subhi can be considered unisex in some regions, though it is predominantly used for boys in Arabic and Swahili contexts.
Both relate to morning, but Subhi specifically means 'of the morning' or 'morning-related' while Sabah means 'morning' itself. Subhi has a more possessive, personal quality.