Embracing Islam
Essential guidance for those who have embraced Islam or are considering it, based on the authentic teachings of the Salaf (righteous predecessors).
Table of Contents
Step 1: Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
After embracing Islam, the Prophet ﷺ instructed new Muslims to perform a complete bath (ghusl) to purify themselves. This marks your new beginning and spiritual cleanliness.
The Shahada - Declaration of Faith
The Shahada is the fundamental declaration that marks one's entry into Islam. It consists of two essential parts that form the foundation of Islamic belief.
Tawhid (Monotheism)
"La ilaha illa Allah" – This affirms that Allah alone is worthy of worship, with no partners or intermediaries. It is the core principle of Islamic belief.
Risalah (Messengership)
"Muhammadur rasul Allah" – This accepts Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as Allah's final messenger and commits to following his authentic teachings and example.
Step 2: Purification (Ghusl)
After embracing Islam, the Prophet ﷺ instructed new Muslims to perform a complete bath (ghusl) to purify themselves. This marks your new beginning and spiritual cleanliness.
Step 3: Key Terms & Glossary
Some terms may be new to you. Here's what they mean and why they matter:
What does "Salafi" or "Salafiyah" mean?
Salaf (السلف) means "predecessors" or "early generations." In Islam, it refers to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his Companions, and the two generations after them.
Salafi means someone who follows the way and understanding of these early Muslims in belief, worship, and character. Salafiyah is the methodology of returning to the original, authentic teachings of Islam—free from later additions or innovations.
This is not a new sect or group. It is about following the pure Islam as practiced by the Prophet ﷺ and his Companions, focusing on sincerity, knowledge, and good character.
Why use this term? To emphasize learning Islam from its original sources, with clarity and authenticity, just as the earliest Muslims did.
Q: "Is 'Ilm' too Arabic for reverts?"
A: Most reverts learn these terms early, but we explain everything!
📚 Glossary Tooltip: "'Ilm' = Islamic knowledge"
We provide clear explanations for all Arabic terms used on this site.
Tip: Don't worry about memorizing Arabic terms immediately. Focus on understanding the concepts first. The Arabic terms will become familiar naturally as you learn.
Q: "Where should I start as a new Muslim?"
A: Start with the basics and build gradually!
🎯 First Steps:
- • Learn the Shahada (declaration of faith)
- • Start with basic prayers
- • Learn about the 5 pillars
- • Connect with local Muslims
📖 Recommended Resources:
Remember: Every Muslim was once new to Islam. Take your time, ask questions, and don't feel pressured to learn everything at once. Your journey is unique, and we're here to help you every step of the way.
Step 4: How to Pray (Salah)
How to Pray: Simple Guide for Beginners
Welcome! Don't worry if you don't memorize everything at once. Start with the basics and build up gradually. Every Muslim was once a beginner—take your time and ask for help if you need it!
- It's okay to learn gradually—focus on one step at a time.
- Ask for help at your local mosque or from knowledgeable Muslims.
- Don't be afraid to make mistakes; Allah loves your effort and sincerity.
- Use the PDF guide for illustrations and extra details.
Step 5: First Steps After Embracing Islam
First Steps After Embracing Islam
Immediate Actions
Purification
Take a complete bath (ghusl) to purify yourself
Prayer
Learn and establish the five daily prayers
Community
Connect with local Muslims and Islamic centers
Knowledge
Begin learning the fundamentals of Islamic belief
Essential Knowledge
Five Pillars
Shahada, Prayer, Zakat, Fasting, Hajj
Six Articles of Faith
Belief in Allah, Angels, Books, Messengers, Day of Judgment, Divine Decree
Halal/Haram
Understanding what is permissible and forbidden
Islamic Manners
Adab (etiquette) and good character
Step 6: Essential Knowledge
Glossary of Key Islamic Terms
These are some of the most important terms you'll encounter as a new Muslim. Each is explained simply, with a reference from the early scholars (Salaf).
Islam
Submission to Allah alone, with sincerity, by following His commands and the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
"Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad
is His Messenger, to establish prayer, give zakat, fast Ramadan,
and perform Hajj."
(Hadith Jibril, agreed upon)
Why it matters: Islam is the foundation of your new life and relationship with Allah.
Iman
Faith—believing in Allah, His angels, books, messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree.
"Iman is belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers,
the Last Day, and to believe in divine decree, good and bad."
(Hadith Jibril, agreed upon)
Why it matters: Iman is the core of your heart's connection to Allah.
Ihsan
Excellence—worshipping Allah as if you see Him, knowing He sees you.
"Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him; if you cannot, then
know He sees you."
(Hadith Jibril, agreed upon)
Why it matters: Ihsan brings sincerity and mindfulness to your worship.
Tawhid
The oneness of Allah—affirming that only Allah deserves worship, with no partners.
"Tawhid is to single out Allah in His Lordship, worship, and names
and attributes."
(Imam Ahmad, Usul al-Sunnah)
Why it matters: Tawhid is the heart of Islam and the first call of every Prophet.
Sunnah
The teachings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
"The Sunnah is what the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and his Companions
were upon."
(Imam al-Barbahari, Sharh al-Sunnah)
Why it matters: The Sunnah is your guide to living Islam correctly.
Hadith
A report of what the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, did, or approved.
"The hadith is the explanation of the Book (Quran) and the
Sunnah."
(Imam Ahmad, Usul al-Sunnah)
Why it matters: Hadiths clarify the Quran and show how to practice Islam.
Salaf
The earliest generations of Muslims: the Prophet ﷺ, his Companions, and the two generations after them.
"The best of people are my generation, then those who follow them,
then those who follow them."
(Hadith, Bukhari & Muslim)
Why it matters: The Salaf are our role models for understanding and practicing Islam.
Aqeedah
Islamic creed—what a Muslim believes about Allah, His angels, books, messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree.
"Aqeedah is what is held firmly in the heart and believed with
certainty."
(Imam al-Tahawi, Aqeedah al-Tahawiyyah)
Why it matters: Aqeedah is the foundation of your faith and worldview.
Fiqh
Islamic understanding of practical rulings—how to pray, fast, give zakat, etc.
"Fiqh is understanding the religion and knowing what Allah has
made obligatory."
(Imam Ahmad, Usul al-Sunnah)
Why it matters: Fiqh helps you practice Islam correctly in daily life.
Shirk
Associating partners with Allah in worship—considered the gravest sin in Islam.
"Whoever meets Allah not associating anything with Him will enter
Paradise."
(Hadith, Bukhari)
Why it matters: Avoiding shirk is the most important part of Tawhid and salvation.
Bid'ah
Religious innovation—adding beliefs or practices to Islam that were not taught by the Prophet ﷺ or his Companions.
"Every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every
innovation is misguidance."
(Hadith, Abu Dawood)
Why it matters: Avoiding bid'ah keeps your worship pure and accepted by Allah.
Step 7: Following the Way of the Salaf
The Salaf refers to the righteous predecessors - the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his companions, and the early generations of Muslims. Following their way ensures authentic Islamic practice.
Authentic Sources
Learn from the Quran, authentic Hadith, and the understanding of the early scholars
Gradual Learning
Start with fundamentals and build knowledge step by step, as the Prophet (ﷺ) taught
Practical Application
Implement what you learn in daily life, focusing on sincerity and avoiding innovations
Step 8: Common Questions for New Muslims
How do I start praying?
Begin by learning the basic movements and recitations. Start with one prayer and gradually add the others. Focus on learning the correct way rather than rushing. Seek guidance from knowledgeable Muslims.
What should I read first?
Start with the Quran (begin with shorter chapters), authentic Hadith collections, and books on basic Islamic beliefs. Avoid complex theological texts initially. Focus on foundational knowledge.
How do I tell my family?
Be patient and respectful. Show them through your improved character and manners. Answer their questions with wisdom and kindness. Remember, guidance comes from Allah.
What about my previous religion?
Islam recognizes previous prophets and scriptures. However, the final and complete message is Islam. Focus on learning and practicing Islam rather than dwelling on the past.
Step 9: Next Steps & Resources
Continue your journey by exploring these essential topics and taking practical steps:
Essential Topics to Study
Recommended Actions
Remember: Your journey in Islam is a lifelong process. Be patient with yourself, seek knowledge from authentic sources, and always maintain sincerity in your worship. May Allah guide you and make your path easy.