New to Islam

Taking a Break

2006-04-16T23:07:00.000-07:00

Asalaam 'Alaikum,

Well - we are now on the road to homeschooling - and that's my main priority right now. So, I probably won't be updating this blog as often as I had originally hoped.

I do believe that this information may be useful to someone, so - when I do have an opportunity- I do intend to sneak back here and add more information, insha'Allah. Please, just be patient and insha'Allah the information already provided will prove useful for someone.

Asalaam 'Alaikum,
Sumayyah Umm Sadiqah wa Asma

What in the World can a Muslim Eat?

2005-12-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

I guess I should preface this post with the following comment - I'm not trying to be difficult or to make your journey as a Muslim difficult. I remember, however, that when I first became a Muslim I really wanted to do my best to follow Islam properly. I was keen to try to get all the foods out of our house that we were no longer allowed to eat and tried my best to read labels and be extra vigilant when purchasing items. Believe it or not - even many years after being a Muslim I would find out one way or another that I was consuming something that was not allowed - it had somehow slipped through. Anyway - I don't want to scare you off - thinking - "how in the heck am I going to survive without all of this?" It really is possible . . .

These days, trying to figure out what you can or cannot eat can be difficult. Sometimes ingredients are hidden - and often we overlook ingredients because we would never think they would put them in the products we are using. Things to easily overlook is vanilla extract (which has a large amount of alcohol in it) and even things like body soap and creams (some of which have gelatin in them). So, we do need to be careful - not only about what you eat - but what you use, in general. The good news is that they make immitation vanilla flavoring (without alcohol) and you can also buy vanilla powder from an International market (but the amounts would vary from the liquid kind). Also, there are body soaps and creams that do not use pork - so you just have to read the label. Usually - after I find something that works for me - I stick with it!

There are a few websites out there that give some detailed information about products and their ingredients. There have even been books written. While you should use them as a guideline - and they can be useful - don't solely rely on them! The thing about the books are - as soon as they are written - they are obsolete - companies change their formulas and recipes all the time - depending on what ingredients are more cost effective, what tastes better, etc. So, something that once did not have pork as an ingredient - may have it later. So, the best advice I can give you is ~ ~ ~ Read the Label ~ ~ ~ I can't emphasize this more.

To help you on this journey, I will provide you some links to websites that talk about different ingredients, different products, etc.

Halal & Haram in the Private Life of a Muslim

What's In It?

Muslim Consumer Group

Eat Halal.com

Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America

Here is a great Q & A area about food ingredients that is worth looking into: Eat-halal

Many Muslims make the mistake of assuming Kosher is the same as Halal - there can be differences.

What is Kosher?

Is Kosher Halal?

Here is an article that emphasizes why halal/haram lists do not work and why:

Halal Haram Lists

Last but not least (perhaps it should have been first) are links to information about what Muslims can/cannot eat. I should mention here that some Muslim scholars have said that you cannot eat any meat or anything that contains meat that is not slaughtered Islamically (by a Muslim - with specific conditions) - and there are some who say it is acceptable to eat food from the "People of the Book". I must mention that I am not going to mention my preference - as I want to provide you with the information and let you make the right decision for yourself and your family. So, I am just providing you with the information. If you are more interested in learning about the differences of opinion, search google or yahoo for "Muslims eat food People of the Book" (quotes not needed). Probably in the near future I will revise this post and put the links for you here (I ran out of time) - sorry!

What is Halal and Haram anyway? You can probably also find a lot of this information on the above websites as well, but want to make sure I have all the bases covered.

Dietary Customs

Information on Halal and Haram Foods in Islam

Check Your Labels

Introduction to Halal

Halal Food

What Constitutes Halal Meat?

Halal Food Authority

IFANCA (Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America)

I also found the following recipe substitutions for ingredients that are not halal. It is no a comprehensive list - but want you to know that in many cases if you are making a recipe - there is possibly a substitution.

Recipe substitutions

Now - I guess I will end by mentioning another controversial issue. You will find more information about it on my other blog - and I will leave you with the link here:

Is there Such Thing as Halal Food Anymore?

I highly recommend you look at this post - it is really enlightening (not just because it was written by me, lol). Just wanted to add one final note - in my other blog I mention my friend calling around to verify what companies could verify what the animals ate, etc. I should mention that those companies were "certified halal" - but really - were they halal? Here is an interesting article that talks about this:

If It's Not Organic, It's Not Halal

Have further questions? Check out the Halal Food Discussion Board

I hope, insha'Allah, that I have in some way made your journey easier with this information. I don't want to overburden you, but want to share any information I have used in the past to help me stay on the straight path. May Allah make this journey for all of us an enlightening one full of blessing and knowledge. Amin.

Have Questions about Islam?

2005-12-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

There always seems to be a question or thought that comes up that we can't seem to think of where to find the answer. It can be frustrating - especially when it leaves you where you don't know what to do next.

I have found, over the years, a few places that I search for questions that have been answered previously for other people in hopes of finding knowledge and an answer to my own questions. Here are a few of those sites. I hope, insha'Allah, the will help you on your path to knowledge.

Islam Q & A

Islam Q & A
(These Questions are specifically for those interested in embracing Islam or new to Islam.)

Islamicity

Ask an Imam

Understanding Islam

Can't find an answer to your question? Feel free to stop by Islam Q & A - they allow submission of questions (I believe) on Tuesdays for 24 hours. They must do this due to the huge volume of questions they receive. You can submit your question here:

Submit Question

Islam Online also has this ability - just look at the above link.

Visit a Masjid

2005-11-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

I just found this information on the Why-Islam website. Perhaps it would be of use to you:

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Visit a Masjid
We'll do our best to arrange a visit for you.

877-WHY-ISLAM has a nationwide team of volunteers, who host non-Muslims at their local Mosques.

If you're interested, we'll find a mosque close to your residence, then we'll schedule a good time and date for you to come by.

You can visit the mosque, view one of 5 daily prayer services, attend one of their interfaith events, or just converse with the many members of a mosque. If you have any questions, you can also discuss them with the mosque members.

If you wish to visit a mosque in your area, fill out the form and one of our mosque-guide volunteers will get back to you within 24 hours.

"...Thus , if this is the case with the acts of worship, it is no wonder that mosques carry a great social and spiritual place in the lives of the Muslims. The mosque is the thing which unites them and their efforts. It refines their souls and awakens their minds and hearts. It solves their problems. The mosque shows their strength and cohesiveness." - Dr. Mustafa as-Siba'i

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Other ways to interact...

One to One Email Discussion
Start up an email discussion with 877-WHY-ISLAM Associate

Toll Free Line. Dial 877-WHY-ISLAM
Ask any question on Islam. Assocates are standing by..

How Do I Learn Qur'an?

2005-11-19T11:58:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

I will post more on this topic as I find them. However, here are some of the resources I have used.

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Learn the Short Surahs of the Qur'an:

Quran101

Memorize & Practice Juz 'Amma

Translation of the Meaning of the Holy Qur'an
Learn the Meaning of the Surahs of the Qur'an (Audio)

Teaching Qur'an for Children
This is an excellent way to learn the Qur'an. I burned these to disk to have access to them when I am out - my children also learn from them.

Interactive Qur'an Tutor
This is a good site. However, just wanted to mention that just as American Muslims have difficulty pronouncing many letters of the Qur'an - this recitation pronounces the "dh" sound as a 'z' which is often found with Pakistani reciters (and perhaps others that I am not aware of). An example would be the sound of "dh" like Adheem - which is pronouced somewhat similar to "th" as in "this". Thus, they would pronounce "Atheem" as "azeem". Anyway - we all have difficulty but still think this is a very worthy resource. Just make sure when you hear them pronouce "z" to say "dh". Okay?

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Listen to Qur'an Online:

Reciter.org

Qur'an Memorization

Islam Way Recitors List

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Transliteration of the Qur'an:

I think this is only useful when used in conjunction with listening to Qur'an recitation:

Qur'an Transliteration

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Learn Qur'anic Vocabulary and Translation (English):

English Translation of the Qur'an

The Noble Qur'an

Holy Qur'an - Surah Index (This is the English Translation)

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Other Useful Links about the Qur'an:

Ulum Al-Qur'an (Introduction to the Sciences of the Qur'an)

Tafsir Ibn Kathir
(Interpretation of the Qur'an)

Obligations Muslims Owe the Qur'an

Recite & Memorize

How Do I Learn to Pray?

2005-11-19T11:21:00.000-08:00

Bismillah Ir-Rahmaan Ir-Raheem

I can't believe it has taken me this many posts to write about prayer - but I couldn't find the links I needed. Anyway - here is some information:

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Information about Prayer:

For Those New to Islam
Excellent link - includes how to pray, how to make wudu, how to memorize surahs, etc.

The Right Way to Pray

Conduct of Salah

How to Perform Salah

Prophet's Prayer from Beginning to End

Errors in Prayer

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Information about Ablution (aka Wudu, Washing for Prayers):

Prophet's Manner of Wudu

How to Make Wudhu

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Multimedia Programs for Learning Prayer:

CyberSalat
Download program onto your PC to learn about prayer (You can also download)

Learn How to Pray
Online Multimedia Presentation to learn about prayer (You can also download)

Flash Presentation about prayers

Learn about Ablution
Online Multimedia Presentation to learn about wudu (washing for prayers)

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Find Prayer Times in your city:

Islamic Finder

Good Beginner Books

2005-11-19T10:48:00.000-08:00

Bismillah Ir-Rahmaan Ir-Raheem

Here I will post some good beginning books that I recommend for learning more about Islam and your life as a Muslim. There are many books out there - and I may accidentally leave some out - it has been a while since I started my journey and a lot of these books I gave to new Muslims on their own journey as I met them.

The following books I found online, but I always suggest purchasing them from an Islamic Bookstore (I will post resources for these in a later post, insha'Allah, but you can go to Yahoo or Google and type up a search for "Islamic Bookstore" and come up with many). For me, it is not easy to read a book online - and I always like having something to carry with me.

Anyway - here is my list for now (more will be added later):

Towards Understanding Islam

Let Us Be Muslim

The General Prescripts of Belief in the Qur'an and Sunnah

The Fundamentals of Tawheed by Bilal Philips

Kitab at-Tawhid

The Muslim's Belief

History of the Life of the Prophet (saw)

Stories of the Companions of the Prophet (saw)

The Ideal Muslim

The Ideal Muslimah

I also highly recommend the following books (which are not available online):

God Arises by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (an excellent book)

Jesus, Prophet of Islam (a wonderful book - helpful in understanding how Christianity became corrupted - a real eye-opener)

The Ideal Muslim & The Ideal Muslimah by Dr. Muhammad Ali Al-Hashimi (teaches you the ettiquetes of a Muslim man and a Muslim woman - uses hadith and Qur'an to back up their statements)

I would also recommend the following:

Seeking Islamic Knowledge

IslamWay - New Muslim Corner

Guide for New Muslims
I don't necessarily agree with all their book recommendations - but overall, it has good information.

Don't Let Fear Get the Best of You

2005-11-19T10:31:00.000-08:00

Bismillah Ir-Rahmaan Ir-Raheem

I have been told many times by new muslims that they are afraid to make that first step into the masjid - the great unknown. Sometimes we are worried about offending others - not knowing how to act or what to do. Sometimes we are worried that people won't accept us and we will be all alone. Don't worry - I had these fears too. Alhumdulilah, they were unfounded - and it is normal to worry about things we do not know anything about.

That's one reason why I highly recommend calling your local masjid and seeing if there is someone who can help you through this transition. Many times they can take you on a tour of the masjid when no one is there and explain to you the ettiquettes and manners of the masjid. They can be a great help, insha'Allah.

I would also suggest that you contact the masjid and find out when functions are. Many times the masjid will have learning sessions for the community and sometimes they will have special classes for new Muslims. However, you will never know unless you make the first move. For contact information for Masjids within the US, please see the post entitled

"Where is the local masjid?"

Even if you are too overwhelmed by work, family or school, whenever you find a break - make sure you take the opportunity to go. Forgive me for being a pain . . . but in life (mine as well as anyone elses) we always make excuses for why we can't do things . . . a lot of times it is to prevent us from doing something we don't want to do or doing something that we are afraid to do. We must get past these things if we truly want to grow. Trust me, it's not easy . . . but if I never made my first step into a Masjid - I may not still be a Muslim today (and Allah knows best). I would never have known the beautiful people I have met and I may not have come as far as I have.

When I look over my life - so much has changed . . . I am so blessed and Alhumdulilah - when I think about what my life would have been without Islam - I hate to even think about it. For the first time in my life - I feel safe. I feel as though I can get through any calamity or problem that comes my way. I feel certain that Allah will help me get through anything. This is a security that cannot come from anything else and it is a wonderful feeling. So, please - whenever you do get the chance - ask Allah to help you have the courage to tread an unfamiliar path and ask Him to spread along that path people who will help you in kindness and brotherhood / sisterhood. It is possible.

The one wonderful thing to remember:

The Prophet, salAllahu alaiyhi wasalam, said to him while Ibn-Abbas was riding behind him on the same mount:

"Young man, I shall teach you some words [of advice]: Be mindful of Allah and you will find him in front of you. If you ask, ask only Allah and if you seek help, seek help only from Allah. And know that if all the nations were to gather together to benefit you, they would benefit you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you, and if they gather together to harm you, they would harm you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you. The pens have been lifted and the pages are dry." [at-Tirmidhi]

Do I need a Dictionary?

2005-11-19T10:07:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

I know that you will find my blog and many other sites that seem to have a vocabulary all their own. Actually, these words that you keep seeing are part of the ettiquettes of a Muslim (saying Masha'Allah, Alhumdulilah, etc.).

So, I've decided to share with you some links to sites that have dictionaries to these terms and more - this way you aren't always wondering what people are saying.

Please note: I only looked up these sites for the meanings of common Muslim expressions. I have not, however, looked to see what specifically they are promoting on their websites (other than the dictionary of terms). Thus, use these sites only for the Dictionary information.

Islamic-paths.org

Muhajabah.com

Fatwa Online Glossary

Insha'Allah these will help familiarize you with the different terms Muslims often use in everday conversation. You will also find these terms used a lot if any of the Islamic books you may use.

Asalaam 'Alaikum

Make Dua

2005-11-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

Don't overlook the power of dua.

This period of change and transition might not necessarily be an easy one. If you're like me, you feel the weight of the world has been just taken off your shoulders and you feel at peace with your decision to become a Muslim. However, many people around you - friends, family, colleagues - will have trouble adjusting - they will think this is a fad. Many people have trouble being able to support you and respect your decision. Depending on your situation - whether you are living at home with your family or living alone - whether you work or not will also possibly make this transition difficult.

Just wanted to give you some advice . . .

Make dua (doesn't matter when - but ask Allah) to help you through this transition. Ask Him to make your family and friends understanding and ask Him to help you say the right things to them to ease their worries and concerns.

I will tell you this short story. One day I was going to go the the masjid during Rammadan (the Muslims in our area at that time broke fast together and ate dinner there). I went to the masjid before and no one spoke to me and I sat in my little corner all alone (that can happen - that's why it is better to meet with someone from the masjid so you can know some people before you actually go to the masjid - it will help ease your transition into the community, insha'Allah). This was before I was going to any meetings and before I knew any Mulims in the area.

Anyway - I was very lonely the first time at the masjid and so the next day when my husband asked me to get ready I started to cry (after he left the room) because I didn't want to go back. Right then and there I prayed to Allah to help me - I actually asked him to help me meet a nice woman who would help me feel comfortable in the masjid. Anyway - that night we went to the masjid rather early and when I walked in, a woman was there with her children.

Needless to say - she was very kind. She answered my questions and also supported me and dare I say - loving me for who I was and you could visibly see her excitement for me that I had become a Muslim. She even cried when I told her how I decided to become a Muslim. Her children were delightful and truly sweet - they took me into their family as one of their own.

Since that day we spent a lot of time together - talking about Islam, learning together, sharing meals and laughter - it was wonderful! Since then, I have never forgotten them - although it has been at least 10 years. We have since been separated - she lives in Turkey and I in the United States. However, we still call to see how the other is doing, etc. and there is truly a strong bond between us that I have never felt before.

Anyway - the reason I tell you this story is that I want you to know how important it is to pray to Allah when you are in need and to believe that He will answer your prayers. Even if it isn't absolutely clear - or if an answer is not right before you immediately - you must remember that Allah will answer your prayer in one way or another.

So, please pray that Allah helps you in this matter and ask him to help make this transition easy for you, insha'Allah.

What about my old friends?

2005-11-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

I often get asked by new Muslims about my relationship with friends I had before I was Muslim.

As for people and how they treated me when I became Muslim. Some people didn't want to be my friend anymore - but then you have to look at it that if they were truly friends, would this really come between you?

Also, some people were still friends with me after I became Muslim but I gradually grew away from them because our lives - what is important to us - our behaviors are so different. It became difficult to be their friends.

Also, a lot of non-Muslims have not so great ideas about Islam and they can't help themselves from saying off-color comments or "racist" comments (why are you walking behind that man, etc., etc.) whenever you are with them - or they don't respect that you need to pray or that you have to wear hijab (and I'm sure the men have their issues too). The list goes on and on - but one thing to keep in perspective is that if you decide to become Muslim - you have joined a community of people and it is such a wonderful thing.

Mind you, Muslims are not perfect - you will find some who are racist - you will find some who are way too proud about where they came from and some who think they are better because they cover more than you do, etc., etc. Hopefully, though, your meeting with such people will be minimal.

The main thing is - how wonderful Islam is because when you walk down the street and you see another Muslim - it doesn't matter if you know them or not - you are required to say to them "Asalaam 'Alaikum" which means "May peace be upon you". It's so nice to have that connection with other people! Also - there are plenty of people in the Masjid who are polite, respectful, kind and loving people who open their arms to you in Sisterhood and Brotherhood. No only that, but they are all different colors, all different races, from all over the world - yet Islam binds your hearts together.

Where is the local Masjid?

2005-11-19T09:24:00.000-08:00

Asalaam 'Alaikum:

I've spoken previously about trying to get in contact with muslims in your area. Sometimes that may seem easier said than done. Insha'Allah - I will provide you with links to sites that have lists of all the masjids in your area:

Find Muslims in Your Area (Worldwide)

Mosque Locator (Islamicity)

Islamic Organizations for US & Canada (Islamic Finder)

Masjid Addresses in the US & Canada (MSA National)

Hopefully - these links will help you find someone in your local community who can help guide you through this journey. It really is helpful to find someone to talk to and ask any questions that may come to mind - that's why I think talking one-on-one with someone is important. I have also found that especially in the beginning - it is really important to feel like you are part of a community - that you are not alone. There are many good Muslim brothers and sisters who are more than happy to welcome you into their community and help in any way they can. However, we need to make the first step . . . call the local masjid and see if there is anyone available to speak with you about Islam. Usually, a lot of masjids have a committee or group who are in charge of dawah and helping new Muslims. See if this is available.

May Allah make this journey full of rewards and blessings for you. May He bring people into your life who will help you and guide you properly. Amin.

How Do I Deal with My Family?

2005-11-19T04:33:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

Dealing with your family after becoming a Muslim can be a difficult issue. However, some people have been blessed with very open-minded family members. I was not always so fortunate, however distance kept many problems from occurring. Since this is such a big issue for many new Muslims, I thought I'd share resources and advice that I have found on the internet in the hope that this will help you deal with this tough issue.

ADVICE:

How Do I Tell My Parents and Family?

An Open Letter to My Parents (Maryam Jameelah)

The Status of Parents in Islam

How Do We Relate to Non-Muslim Relatives?

Telling Your Family You Have Converted

Online Lecture: Advice on Interacting with Non-Muslim Family & Friends

Advice for New Muslims

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Question #72252: He has become Muslim but his mother wants him to go back to being a Christian.

Question #27196: She became Muslim but her family did not; should she honour her family even though they mistreat her?

Question #31796: She wants to become Muslim but her mother and grandmother are opposed to the idea.

Question #5424: Her sister’s resistance towards Islam.

Question #6018: He is convinced of Islam but is concerned about his parents who are staunch Christians.

Question #3313: Difficulties facing a Christian girl who wants to take the decision to enter Islam.

Question #2644: She became Muslim and was cut off by her non-Muslim mother.

OTHER MUSLIM'S STORIES:

First Family Visit as a Muslim

Another Story

Dealing with Relatives

Stories of Converts

My Journey

A Girl With a Mission

One Christian Minister's Conversion to Islam

Priests & Preachers Enter Islam?

How I Came to Islam - Yusuf Islam

Girl Becomes a Muslim

Rosalyn Rushbrook

D. Jacqueline Cosens

Wa'ail Abdul Salaam

Marc Springer

You should also look on the right hand side of the screen for links to the stories of other Muslims - you may find information there that will help you as well, insha'Allah.

Asalaam 'Alaikum

How Do I Become a Muslim?

2005-11-18T13:03:00.000-08:00

Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem

First, Let's Get Rid of Our Obstacles:

Sometimes we (knowlingly or unknowingly) try to find ways to put obstacles in front of ourselves - excuses for not doing what we need to do. Of course, it is not easy, but we need to really need to examine our excuses and see if they are legitimate. We need to get past these obstacles so we can focus on what is really important.

Here's a resource for those interested in Islam, but . . .

"I want to Embrace Islam, but . . ."

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Here's an article from Islam Q & A that details How Do I Become A Muslim?

All praise be to Allah, the lord of the universe. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon Mohammad, His last messenger.

The purpose of this hand-out is to correct a false idea spread among those willing to adopt Islam as their faith. Some people have a wrong notion that entering into th Islamic fold requires an announcement from the concerned person in the presence of high ranking scholars or shaikhs or reporting this act to courts of justice or other authorities. It is also thought that the act accepting Islam, should, as a condition, have a certificate issued by the authorities, as evidence to that effect.

We wish to clarify that whole matter is very easy and that none of these conditions or obligations are required. For Allah, Almighty, is above all comprehension and knows well the secrets of all hearts. Nevertheless, those who are going to adopt Islam as their religion are advised to register themselves as Muslims with the concerned governmental agency, as this procedure may facilitate for them many matters including the possibility of performing Hajj (Pilgrimage) and Umrah.

If anyone has a real desire to be a muslim and has full conviction and strong belief that Islam is the true religion ordained by Allah for all human-being, then, one should pronounce the “shahada”, the testimony of faith, without further delay. The Holy Qur’an is explicit on this regard as Allah states :

“The Religion in the sight of Allah is Islam” (Qur’an 3:19)

in another verse of the Holy Qur’an, Allah states :

“If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (Submission to Allah), Never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (their selves in the hell fire).” (Qur’an 3:85)

In addition, Islam is the only religion prevailing over all other religions. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an :

“To thee We sent the Scripture in the truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety :…. (Qur’an 5:48)

Mohammad, the Prophet of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), said :

“The superstructure of Islam is raised on five (pillars) : testifying that there is no God (none truly to be worshipped) but Allah, and that Mohammad is the messenger of Allah, performing the prayer, paying the Zakah (poor-due), fasting the month of Ramadan, and performing Hajj.”

The Shahada can be declared as follows :

“ASH-HADU ANLA ELAHA ILLA-ALLAH WA ASH-HADU ANNA MOHAMMADAN RASUL-ALLAH”.

The English translation is :

“I bear witness that there is no deity (none truly to be worshipped) but, Allah, and I bear witness that Mohammad is the messenger of Allah.”

However, it would not be sufficient for anyone to only utter this testimony oraly either in private or in public; but rather, he should believe in it by heart with a firm conviction and unshakeable faith. If one is truly sincere and complies with the teachings of Islam in all his life, he will find himself a new born person.

This will move him to strive more and more to improve his character and draw nearer to perfection. The light of the living faith will fill his heart until he becomes the embodiment of that faith.

What would be next after declaring oneself a Muslim ? one should then know the real concept underlying this testimony which means the oneness of Allah and meet its requiremants. One must behave accordingly, applying this true faith to every thing one speaks or does.

What do the words of the “Shahada” signify? The significant point which every Muslim must know very well is the truth that there is no God (deity) to be worshipped other than Allah. He-glory be to Him – is the only true God, Who alone deserves to be worshipped, since He is the Giver of life and Sustainer and Nourisher of mankind and all creation with His unlimited bounties. Man must worship Allah, Who alone is worthy of worship.

The second part of the Shahada “i.e., Wa Ash-hadu anna Mohammadan abduhu wa rasuluh” means that Prophet Mohammad (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) is the servant and chosen messenger of Allah. No one must have two opinions about this matter. In fact the Muslim has to obey the commands of the Prophet (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), to believe him in what he has said, to practise his teachings, to avoid what ha has forbidden, and to worship Allah alone according to the message revealed to him, for all the teachings of the Prophet were in fact revelation and inspirations conveyed to him by Allah.

What is the meaning of worship? It simply means rendering sincere service, showing reverence for Allah. In a deeper shade of meaning, it implies total submission and complete obedience to Allah’s commandments both in utterances and actions of man whether explicit or implicit.

Worship fall into two categories :

Visible (manifest or outward).
Invisible (concealed or inward).
Visible worship includes acts such as uttering the two parts of the “Shahada”, performing prayers, giving Zakah (the poor-due), recitation of the Holy Qur’an, supplication, adoring Allah by praising Him, purifying our bodies before prayers, etc.

This type of worship is associated with movement of the parts of the human body.

Invisible worship is to believe in Allah, in the Day of Judgement (in the Hereafter), in the Angels, in the Books of Allah, in the Prophets of Allah, in the Divine Decree of destiny (that good and bad are determined by Allah alone).

This type worship does not involve movement of parts of the body but it surely has bearing on one’s heart which subsequently affects one’s way of life.

It should be borne in mind that any worship not dedicated to Allah alone will be rejected as one form of polytheism and this causes apostasy from the Islamic fold.

The next step for a newly revert to Islam is the purify himself by taking a cmplete bath. He should then resolve to comply with the principles and rules of Islam in their entirety. He should disown all forms of polytheism and false beliefs. He should reject evil and be rigtheous. Such rejection of evil and being righteous is one of the requisites of the motto of Islam – that is, Laa ilaha illallah.

Allah states in the Holy qur’an :

“…whoever rejects evil and believes in the Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy Hand-hold, that never breaks…” (Qur’an 2:256).

We have to consider that when declare from our heart that “ there is no god (deity) worthy to be worshipped but Allah”, it implies on our part love, devotion, faith and obedience to the rules of Islamic legislations which are legally binding on all Muslims. It is a requiremant of “there is no god worthy to be worshipped but Allah” to love for the sake of Allah and to reject for the sake of Allah.

This is the firmest anchor of belief which materialise the meaning of “AL WALA” and “AL BARA”. It means that a Muslim should love and be loyal to his Muslim brothers. He should, as a practise, dissociate himself completely from the unbelievers and refuse to be influenced by them, both in wordly and religious matters.

We conclude with a humble prayer to Allah that may He cleanse the hearts and souls of those who are genuine seekers of truth and may He bless the community of believers.

Aameen.

Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

Asalaam 'Alaikum

2005-11-18T10:25:00.000-08:00

Bismillah Ir-Rahmaan Ir-Raheem

Welcome to my blog. I hope, insha'Allah that you will benefit from the information provided here. In the future, insha'Allah, I will try to post topics that I think are of specific interest to new Muslims.

I know it can be a somewhat difficult road to travel on your own . . . but insha'Allah, I really recommend that you try to find listings for your local Masjid or Islamic Center and see if they have programs, learning sessions, resources, etc., for new Muslims. Also, see if they have any volunteers who are willing to work with new Muslims to help them learn about prayers, etc.

I can't stress this enough. The internet is a great resource - but truly, the best thing is to find someone you can talk to one-on-one and ask any questions you may have. While most Muslims will not have all the answers, they can hopefully point you in the right direction. However, make sure that you know what type of Islam this person is following. Islam itself is complete - however - there are many people following deviations and sects.

While this can be confusing, just remember that Allah said we must follow the Qur'an:

'God - there is no god but He, the Ever-living, the Self-subsisting (by whom all subsist). He has sent down upon you the Book with the Truth ... as a guidance unto mankind ...' (Al 'Imran 3: 2-3)

'There shall come to you guidance from Me, and whosoever follows My guidance no fear shall be on them, neither shall they sorrow' (al-Baqarah 2: 38)

"And We sent down from the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism)." [17:82]

"Indeed in this there is a remembrance for those who have a living heart, listen attentively and are awake to taking heed." [Qaaf: 37]

and we must follow the Sunnah:

“he who obeys the Messenger, has indeed obeyed Allah” (Surah-Al-Nisa, V-80)

“Say you, ‘O people if you love Allah, then follow me: Allah will love you and forgive your sins and Allah is Forgiving, Merciful” (Surah-Ale-Imram, V-31)

“Undoubtedly, you have the best in the following of the Messenger,” (Surah Al-Ahzab, V-21)

“And whatsoever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain from that,
And fear Allah; undoubtedly, the torment of Allah is severe”(Surah Al-Hashr, V-7)

“And whoso obeys Allah and His messenger, has got a great success” (Surah Al-Ahzab, V-71)

I hope, insha'Allah, that this reminder will be of some benefit to you and I hope to post more soon.

Asalaam 'Alaikum