How can You become a Muslim? Despite the many speculations and cogitations, the answer to this question resides in one simple yet profound sentence: Ashadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ashadu anna muhammadan rasulu Allah.
This is what we call a profession of faith or as we Muslims name it Shahada and it is the first pillar of Islam (you can read more about them in our previous article “taking shahada alone”).
So, becoming a Muslim is that simple? Indeed, it is, as long as you say it with full conviction and sincerity. Throughout this article, we hope to help you better understand Islam and assist you through the life-changing journey of becoming a Muslim.
Understanding Islam before you convert:
When you look up the word Islam in Arabic dictionaries, the word submission is what you find. Hence, Islam as a religion refers to the full submission and surrender to Allah almighty and following His commands and orders wholeheartedly and without complaint. Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) is Allah’s messenger who introduced Islam.
In light of this, the word Muslim describes the adherents of the Islamic religion who believe in only one deity and that is Allah (SWT), have full faith and trust in Him, and naturally obey his instructions and avoid His prohibitions. Allah (SWT) says:
“Say, [O Muhammad], “Indeed, I have been commanded to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion. And I have been commanded to be the first [among you] of the Muslims.” (Surah Az-Zumar 39 :11-12).
Things you should know before you convert to Islam:
Before you convert to Islam, there are things you ought to know first:
- The Quran is Islam’s holy book: reading the Quran is a phenomenal experience that everyone should experience. Understanding the basics of Islam comes from understanding the Quran. We suggest you read our Quran FAQ to further expand your knowledge.
- Islam was brought by Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) whose practices, traditions and ahadith (plural of Hadith) constitute Sunnah (the second source of Islamic law for Muslims).
- We pray 5 times a day (prayer of Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha). These are Fard (mandatory) so it is best to learn how to pray before you convert. This way, you will not be overwhelmed or confused as to performing your duties as a Muslim.
- Speaking of prayer entails speaking of Wudu (ablution). We advise you to learn about Wudu to facilitate your daily routine as a Muslim.
- etiquette and dress code of Islam: in order to become a Muslim, you have to know how to act like one. Muslims ought to portray modesty not only clothes wise but behavior too.
Learning about other things like prophet stories, Sirah al-nabawiyya (prophetic biography), Ramadan and Eid traditions, and others also helps in understanding this amazing religion and getting familiar with the its rich culture.
Although recommended, learning about all this before converting is not obligatory. Tawheed (believing in oneness of God “Allah”) is all that matters as per this hadith: ‘on the authority of Sufyan bin Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) who said:
“I said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, tell me something about Islam which I can ask of no one but you.’ He (peace be upon him) said, ‘Say “I believe in Allah” — and then be steadfast.'”’ [Muslim]
Steps to follow in order to convert TO ISLAM:
Entering Islam is a clear and uncomplicated process: you just state the Shahada (also known as profession/declaration of faith) with a sincere believing heart. That is the first and crucial step in converting to Islam. You testify: “La ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur rasoolu Allah” which translates to: “There is no true God (deity) but Allah (SWT); Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah (SWT).
The next step (recommended only) is Ghusl (total ablution) or simply taking a bath or a shower. This symbolizes a form of purification through which you get rid of your past life with all its sins and mistakes. As you enter Islam, all your past sins are forgiven. Remember, Allah’s mercy is endless; He (SWT) says:
“Say, “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah . Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.”” (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53).
Note: Bear in mind that it is a MUST to fully comprehend the profession of faith before you say it.
How do I surrender to Allah Soubhanah wa ta’alla?
Full surrender and submission is not an easy task. It demands of you more than obedience and respect. Rather, it asks of you to lay your whole heart and soul in the hands of your creator. Beautifully, this is where the magic begins, as you get rid of all dark thoughts and hopelessness having full faith in Allah’s infinite power and divine plan for you. The Almighty says:
“Allah’s guidance is the ˹only˺ true guidance. And we are commanded to submit to the Lord of all worlds” (Surah Al-An’am 6:71).
This may still be difficult to achieve nonetheless since we humans are nothing but weak creatures filled with doubts and insecurities. Trying is the key. Regardless the hardships and struggles you face each day, one must always trust Allah and the fate He meticulously arranged for you. We as Muslims ought to always try to rejuvenate our faith by reading the Quran, making prayers and Duaa, and sagely learn more and research about Islam.
Is taking Shahada enough to become a Muslim?
If stated with full conviction and intent to become a Muslim, the answer is YES. Pronouncing the declaration of faith is all it takes to become a Muslim.
Conclusion
In drawing things to a close, Islam is quite an easy and welcoming religion. As long as you believe in only one God (Allah Almighty) and that Muhammed (pbuh) is his prophet, you are a Muslim in the sight of Allah. He (SWT) says:
“Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185).
Even Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) explained: ‘Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The religion (of Islam) is easy, and whoever makes the religion a rigor, it will overpower him. So, follow a middle course (in worship); if you can’t do this, do something near to it and give glad tidings and seek help (of Allah) at morn and at dusk and some part of night”’ [Al-Bukhari].
Islam is the best religion. It has always been and will always be. No matter the time, the place, Allah’s presence is infinite and eternal. It is never too late to surrender to this reality and brace yourself with Allah’s mercy and grace.
May Allah guide us all to the right path.
I am elderly, (81). Can I become follower of Allah – Islam?
I am Xavier from NC i just turned 18 oct 13, I am going forward with following the word and faith of Islam, give me trust and gratitude to Allah