What does Islam say about calling someone other than one's biological father 'Baba'?

In Islam, the status of parents is very high. In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says, “And your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him, and that you be dutiful to your parents.” (Surah Al-Isra: 23)

Furthermore, emphasizing the importance of preserving lineage, the Quran also says, “Call them by (the names of) their fathers; that is more just in the sight of Allah.” (Surah Al-Ahzab: 5)

Regarding this matter, it is narrated in a Hadith that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever knowingly claims someone other than his father as his father, Paradise is forbidden for him.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 6766)

In another Hadith, he said, “Whoever attributes himself to someone other than his father, upon him is the curse of Allah, the angels, and all of mankind.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1370)

However, according to Islamic scholars, the main purpose of these Hadiths is to prohibit intentionally changing or concealing one's lineage and claiming someone else as one's real father.

On the other hand, addressing someone as 'Baba' jokingly or out of emotion does not constitute a claim of changing lineage. Nevertheless, Islam emphasizes the use of decent and meaningful language.

The Quran says, “Not a word does he utter but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it).” (Surah Qaf: 18)

Additionally, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “A servant speaks a word whose consequence he does not consider, but because of it, he is thrown into the Hellfire farther than the distance between the east and the west.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 6478)

For this reason, according to Islamic scholars, using the word 'Baba' for the purpose of joking, trolling, or expressing exaggerated devotion is avoidable for a Muslim. Because there is a risk of diminishing the dignity of the word 'father' and it may also cause confusion.

According to them, expressing love and support for sports or any person is normal. However, one should be mindful that such expression does not conflict with Islamic etiquette, linguistic restraint, and religious values.