Become Muslim
Guiding the Journey to Islam: A Compassionate Resource
Welcome to your guide on embracing Islam! At almost two billion members and growing, Islam is, by some measures, the fastest-growing religion in the world. Unique among the world's religions in the ease with which new members may join its ranks, Islam requires only a simple, sincere declaration of faith to become a Muslim.
You should know that accepting Islam erases all sins committed before it. As a new convert, your record is wiped clean—it's akin to a literal rebirth. One should strive to keep this record clean and focus on performing as many good deeds as possible.
Converting to Islam
Before taking the significant step of converting to Islam, it's important to understand what it truly means to be a Muslim and how to live in accordance with its teachings.
Core Beliefs
- Belief in One God (Allah): Allah is the sole God, the Creator of all things, and the Almighty.
- Belief in Prophets: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final messenger.
- Belief in the Quran: The holy book revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
- Belief in Angels: Created by Allah to serve Him and carry out His commands.
- Belief in the Day of Judgment: A time when all people will be held accountable for their deeds.
- Belief in Divine Decree: Allah's complete knowledge and control over all that happens.
Steps to Take
Request Your Free Copy of the Quran
Begin your exploration by receiving the holy book of Islam.
Request Free QuranVisit the Nearest Mosque
Speak to the Imam (mosque leader) who can answer your questions and provide guidance.
Taking the Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
Visiting a Mosque for Your Shahada
While you can declare your faith privately between you and Allah, it is highly recommended to visit your local mosque to publicly announce your Shahada. This provides several benefits:
- Guidance from knowledgeable Imams who can help you pronounce the words correctly
- Immediate welcome into the Muslim community
- Witnesses to your declaration, which is recommended in Islam
- Access to resources, support, and educational materials for new Muslims
- Connection with fellow Muslims who can help you on your journey
Most mosques welcome new Muslims with open arms and are experienced in guiding people through the Shahada process. Simply call ahead or visit during prayer times and ask to speak with the Imam about taking your Shahada.
The Declaration of Faith
Understanding the Shahada
The Shahada consists of two parts:
-
"Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah"
I bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah. This affirms God's absolute Oneness and uniqueness, with no partners or equals. This is the core foundation of Islam. -
"Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah"
And I bear witness that Muhammad is His (Allah's) messenger. This means accepting Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the final Prophet and Messenger of God, meaning his teachings and example are from God.
How to Take the Shahada
- Understand the meaning of the declaration.
- Take a shower (recommended but not required).
- Say the Shahada with sincere belief and intention.
- If possible, have witnesses present (like at a mosque).
Practice Saying the Shahada
Click each part to hear the pronunciation, then try repeating:
After Becoming Muslim
Congratulations on embracing Islam! Now that you have taken the Shahada, you are beginning a beautiful journey of faith. As a new Muslim, it's important to understand and gradually implement the Five Pillars of Islam, which form the foundation of Muslim life.
The Five Pillars of Islam
Islam is built upon five fundamental practices that Muslims are expected to follow. These pillars are the foundation of a Muslim's life and faith journey.
Shahada: The First Pillar
The Shahada is the Muslim declaration of faith and the first of the Five Pillars. By reciting the Shahada with conviction, one becomes a Muslim.
The declaration is: "Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah." (I bear witness that there is no deity but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.)
Key Points About Shahada:
- It's the foundation of Islamic belief
- It affirms monotheism (belief in One God)
- It acknowledges Muhammad as God's messenger
- It should be declared with sincere intention
- It's often the first thing whispered to a newborn and the last words a Muslim hopes to say before death
Salah: The Second Pillar
Salah refers to the five obligatory daily prayers that Muslims perform. These prayers are a direct link between the worshipper and Allah.
The five daily prayers are: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (noon), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night).
Important Aspects of Prayer:
- Each prayer has specific timings based on the sun's position
- Before prayer, one must perform Wudu (ritual ablution)
- Prayer involves specific physical positions and recitations
- Muslims face the Kaaba in Mecca when praying
- Prayer can be performed individually or in congregation
- Friday noon prayer (Jumu'ah) is especially important and performed in congregation
Zakat: The Third Pillar
Zakat is an obligatory form of charity that purifies wealth. Muslims who possess wealth above a certain threshold (nisab) must donate a portion of it to those in need.
Typically, Zakat amounts to 2.5% of a Muslim's qualifying wealth and is given annually.
Understanding Zakat:
- It's a form of worship through giving
- It helps purify the giver from greed and attachment to wealth
- It benefits the poor and needy in society
- It applies to various forms of wealth including money, gold, silver, and business inventory
- Specific categories of people are eligible to receive Zakat
Sawm: The Fourth Pillar
Sawm refers to fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims abstain from food, drink, and intimate relations from dawn until sunset throughout this month.
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and fasting during this month is mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims.
Benefits and Practices of Fasting:
- Develops self-discipline and God-consciousness
- Creates empathy for those less fortunate
- Encourages charitable acts and generosity
- Muslims break their fast at sunset with a meal called Iftar
- Special night prayers (Taraweeh) are performed during Ramadan
- Exemptions exist for travelers, the ill, elderly, pregnant or nursing women
Hajj: The Fifth Pillar
Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim is required to make at least once in their lifetime, if physically and financially able.
It takes place during the 12th month of the Islamic calendar (Dhul-Hijjah) and involves a series of rituals over several days.
Key Aspects of Hajj:
- Represents the unity of Muslims from around the world
- Commemorates the experiences of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family
- Includes rituals such as Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), Sa'i (walking between Safa and Marwa hills), and standing on the plain of Arafat
- Pilgrims wear simple white garments called Ihram, symbolizing equality
- Completing Hajj is a profound spiritual experience that often transforms the pilgrim
After Becoming Muslim – What Else Should You Do?
A. Embrace Your New Journey (It's a Process!)
Patience and Gradual Learning: Emphasize that no one expects perfection overnight. Islam is a lifelong journey of learning and growth.
Forgiveness of Past Sins: Reassure them that embracing Islam wipes away all previous sins.
Building a Connection with the Mosque and Community:
Finding Your Support System: Encourage new Muslims to actively engage with their local mosque and Muslim community. This is often the best place to find:
- Guidance from Imams and Teachers: Direct access to knowledgeable individuals for questions and learning.
- Brotherhood/Sisterhood: The warmth and support of fellow Muslims who understand your journey.
- Practical Learning: Classes on Quran, prayer, and Islamic teachings.
- Social Connection: Opportunities to participate in community events and build lasting friendships.
Attending Congregational Prayers: Highlight the spiritual and communal benefits of praying with others.
Navigating Online vs. Local Community:
Caution Against Over-Reliance on Online Resources: While online resources can be helpful for quick information, advise against relying solely on them for primary religious guidance or community. The internet can contain misinformation, extreme views, and can't replace the personal connection and accountability of a physical community.
Prioritize Local Connection: Stress that genuine growth and support are often found in real-life interactions within a mosque and its community.
Dealing with Potential Negativity from Other Muslims:
Understanding Imperfection: Acknowledge that Muslims are human and, like all people, are imperfect. Some individuals may inadvertently pass judgment or have high expectations, especially of new converts.
Focus on Your Own Journey: Encourage new Muslims to focus on their personal relationship with Allah and their own growth, rather than being discouraged by the actions or words of a few individuals.
Seek Good Company: Advise them to seek out kind, supportive, and knowledgeable individuals within the community who exemplify good Islamic character.
B. Deeper Learning & Cultivating a Muslim Lifestyle:
Learning the Quran
Starting with basic Arabic letters (for recitation) or focusing on translations for understanding. Recommend short Surahs (chapters) to memorize for prayer. Encourage daily reading, even a small amount.
Understanding Core Beliefs (Aqeedah)
Delve deeper into the Articles of Faith: Belief in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, The Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree.
Daily Remembrance (Dhikr)
Simple invocations and praises of Allah. Regular remembrance of Allah throughout your day strengthens your connection and brings peace to the heart.
Halal & Haram
Basic guidelines on permissible (Halal) and impermissible (Haram) foods, drinks, and actions. Emphasize the wisdom behind these rules and how they benefit both individual and society.
Modesty (Hayaa)
Discuss the concept of modesty in dress and behavior for both men and women, emphasizing it as a form of dignity and respect. Modesty goes beyond clothing to encompass speech and conduct.
Character & Ethics (Akhlaq)
Highlight the importance of good character, kindness, honesty, truthfulness, patience, and forgiveness. Islam promotes positive relationships with family, neighbors, and society at large.
Giving Charity (Sadaqah)
The importance of voluntary generosity beyond Zakat. Charity purifies wealth and cultivates generosity. Even a smile to another person can be a form of charity in Islam.
What Should You Avoid and How to Approach Your New Journey
A. Approach Your Journey with Wisdom:
Take it as a Journey
Understand that becoming Muslim and practicing Islam is a continuous, lifelong journey. It's not a race or a destination you reach overnight.
Take Small, Baby Steps
As you begin practicing the religion, focus on building strong foundations. Don't try to learn and implement everything at once. Pick one or two new practices or areas of knowledge at a time and solidify them before moving on.
Do Not Rush Into Anything and Get Burnt Out
Overwhelm can lead to discouragement and exhaustion. Islam is a religion of ease. Pace yourself, be consistent in small efforts, and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Sustainable spiritual growth comes from consistent, manageable steps, not sudden, intense bursts.
Be Patient with Yourself
You will make mistakes, and that's okay. Learning takes time, and no one is perfect. Allah is Most Forgiving and Most Merciful. Pick yourself up, learn from your experiences, and continue striving.
B. What to Avoid (Common Pitfalls & Negative Influences):
Extremism and Misinterpretations
Clearly and unequivocally denounce terrorism and extremism in the name of Islam. Explain that these actions contradict Islamic teachings.
Sectarianism
Advise against getting caught up in sectarian disputes (e.g., Sunni vs. Shia) and emphasize unity on core principles.
Rigidity vs. Ease
Caution against overly strict interpretations that make Islam seem impossible or burdensome. Emphasize Allah's mercy and the ease of the religion.
Unreliable Sources of Information
Warn against taking religious knowledge from unverified online sources, social media "influencers" without proper qualifications, or individuals with extreme views. Stress seeking knowledge from qualified scholars.
Isolation
Advise against withdrawing from society. Encourage active, positive engagement while maintaining Islamic principles.
Self-Blame/Despair
When they make mistakes, remind them of Allah's infinite mercy and forgiveness.
Hiding Your Islam
While personal, encourage them to be open about their faith when they feel ready, as it often leads to support.
Argumentative Debates
Advise new Muslims to focus on their own journey and learning, rather than engaging in unproductive arguments with non-Muslims or even other Muslims.
Neglecting Self-Care
Remind them that spiritual growth is holistic and includes mental and physical well-being.
