Q&A: Bin or Ibn?

Bin or Ibn?

Q. Could you please enlighten me on the difference between “bin” and “ibn” – are there rules on when to use which? Also, just in case I happen to fail to understand this at this point, for quick-reference purposes, am I, Naasir ibn Khaalid or Naasir bin Khaalid?

A. “Bin” is used between two proper nouns, e.g. Muhammad Bin Qaasim, whilst “Ibn” is used without being preceded by a name, e.g. Ibn Mas’ood.

You are Naasir Bin Khaalid or Ibn Khaalid.