If you believe in the teachings of Islam, it is recommended to make a formal declaration of faith. After careful study and prayer, if you find that you want to embrace the faith, here's how.
Note: Muslims believe that all people are born with a natural faith in God. Some people, then, prefer to say that they are "reverting" to Islam (i.e. returning to the natural faith that existed at birth) rather than "converting" to Islam (changing one's existing faith to Islam). Either term is accepted among the Muslim community.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Variable
Here's How:
- For a Muslim, every action begins with your intention. Quietly, to yourself, make the intention to embrace Islam as your faith.
- Say the following words with clarity of intention, firm faith and belief:
- Say: "Ash-hadu an la ilaha ill Allah." (I bear witness that there is no diety but Allah.)
- Say: "Wa ash-hadu ana Muhammad ar-rasullallah." (And I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)
- Take a shower, symbolically cleansing yourself of your past life. (Some people prefer to shower before making the declaration of faith above; either way is acceptable.)
- Learn how to pray and practice Islam in your daily life.
- Continue to learn, study, and grow in your new faith. Seek support from Muslims[/link] if available.
- Maintain your existing family relationships to the best of your ability. Some may have difficulty accepting your decision, but at all times try to keep the doors open and be a good example of humility, kindness, and patience.
Tips:
- Before embracing Islam, be sure to spend time studying the faith, reading books, and learning from other Muslims.
- Your conversion should be based on knowledge, certainty, acceptance, submission, truthfulness, and sincerity.
- It is not required to have Muslim witnesses to your conversion, but many prefer to have such support. God is your ultimate Witness.
- If you wish to go for Hajj (pilgrimage), a "certificate of Islam" may be required to prove that you are a Muslim. (Only Muslims are allowed to visit the city of Mecca.) Contact your local Islamic center to obtain one; they may ask you to repeat your declaration of faith.
