First 10 Things to Do as a New Muslim Convert
Congratulations on accepting Islam! Welcome to a new journey of peace and happiness. This is a beautiful and life-changing decision that will bring you closer to Allah. As a new Muslim, you may feel excited but also a little unsure about what to do next. Don’t worry! This guide will help you take the first important steps in your journey.
In this Islam conversion guide, we will cover simple and easy steps like learning to pray, reading the Quran, and finding a supportive Muslim community. Let’s begin!
1. Understand and Reflect on the Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
The Shahada is the first and most important belief in Islam. It means:
“There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.”
Now that you have said the Shahada, it’s time to think deeply about what it means. In Islam, we believe that only Allah is the true God, and we worship Him alone. We also follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who showed us how to live a good life.
A Simple Quranic Verse:
“Say, He is Allah, [who is] One.” (Quran 112:1)
This verse teaches us that Allah is the One and Only God. As a new Muslim, try to remember this always and trust in Allah’s guidance.
2. Take a Purification Bath (Ghusl)
After accepting Islam, it is recommended to take a full bath (ghusl). This is a simple but important way to start fresh. Here’s how to do it:
Make an intention in your heart for purification.
Wash your whole body, ensuring water touches every part.
Feel spiritually refreshed and ready to start your new journey.
This bath is a way to cleanse yourself physically and spiritually. It marks a new beginning, symbolizing purity and commitment to your faith.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Islam erases everything that came before it (of sins)." (Sahih Muslim)
This means that when you become a Muslim, all your past sins are completely forgiven. It’s like starting life with a clean slate.
3. Learn How to Pray (Salah)
Prayer (Salah) is the second pillar of Islam. It is a direct way to connect with Allah.
Prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times. (Quran 4:103)
This Quranic verse clears that praying five times a day is an important part of being a Muslim.
Here’s how to start:
Learn the five prayer times (Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha)
Start with short prayers and learn more over time.
Use a prayer app or watch simple videos to guide you.
You don’t have to learn everything at once! Just start by praying and learning little by little.
4. Start Reading the Quran
The Quran is the word of Allah and your guide in life. Here’s how to begin:
Start with a simple translation, such as “The Clear Quran.”
Begin with Surah Al-Fatihah (Chapter 1) and Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112).
Read a little every day and reflect on the meaning.
The Quran will help you understand Islam and strengthen your faith. Take your time, read with an open heart, and seek guidance from trusted sources.
In Quran Allah Says:
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.” (Quran 2:2)
This verse reminds us that the Quran is a perfect guide for life. The more you read it, the more you will understand Islam and Allah’s message.
5. Find a Muslim Community
Being around other Muslims will make your journey easier. Here’s what you can do:
Visit a local mosque and introduce yourself.
Join Islamic classes or online new Muslim groups.
Make Muslim friends who can support and guide you. (add relevant hadith)
This means that Muslims should help each other. Having good Muslim friends will make your journey in Islam easier
6. Learn About Halal and Haram
Islam teaches us to make good choices in life, especially regarding what we eat and drink, because these things affect our health, soul, and connection with Allah. Here are some basic but important things to know about halal (permissible) and haram (forbidden):
✅ Halal food includes meat that is prepared in Allah’s name through the proper Islamic slaughter method (Zabiha). This method ensures that the animal is treated with kindness, its blood is fully drained, and Allah's name is mentioned at the time of slaughter, making it pure and lawful to eat.
❌ Haram (forbidden) foods and drinks include pork, alcohol, and anything harmful. Islam prohibits these because they can damage our health, judgment, and spiritual well-being. For example:
Pork is considered impure in Islam and is associated with various health risks.
Alcohol and intoxicants alter the mind, leading to poor decisions and harmful actions.
Other harmful substances like blood, carrion (dead animals), and food dedicated to false gods are also forbidden.
Allah guides us to consume only what is pure and beneficial for us, both physically and spiritually.
Allah says in the Quran:
"Eat of what is lawful and good on the earth…" (Quran 2:168)
This verse teaches that we should:
Eat only halal (lawful) food – Food that is pure, healthy, and allowed in Islam.
Choose what is tayyib (good) – Not just lawful, but also beneficial for our body and soul.
Be mindful of our actions – Just as we should eat lawful food, we should also live in a way that is pleasing to Allah by avoiding dishonesty, bad manners, and harmful habits.
Take It Step by Step
If you’re new to learning about halal and haram, don’t worry! Islam encourages learning gradually. You don’t have to know everything right away—just keep learning and try your best.
7. Practice Good Manners and Respect
Islam teaches us to be kind, honest, and respectful. Here are a few ways to show good character:
Greet others by saying “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you).
Speak kindly and avoid hurting others.
Respect your parents, elders, and neighbors.
Help those in need and always be truthful in your words and actions. Treat others with respect and patience, just as you would like to be treated.
“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character.” (Hadith, Bukhari & Muslim)
Being a good Muslim means treating people well and being a kind person. Good character is one of the most important things in Islam!
8. Learn About Fasting and Ramadan
Fasting in Ramadan is an important part of Islam. Here’s how to prepare:
Learn about suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (meal at sunset).
Try fasting on Mondays and Thursdays to practice.
Understand that fasting is not just about food—it’s also about being patient and avoiding bad habits.
Use this time to strengthen your connection with Allah through prayer and good deeds. Remember, fasting teaches self-discipline and gratitude for the blessings in your life.
“O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed upon you… that you may become righteous.” (Quran 2:183)
This Quranic verse beautifully describes that fasting helps you become closer to Allah and improves your character.
9. Keep Learning About Islam
Islam is a journey of learning. Here’s how to grow in knowledge:
Read simple Islamic books and watch beginner-friendly videos.
Follow trusted scholars and teachers.
Ask questions and never be afraid to seek knowledge!
Take small steps and be consistent in learning. The more you understand, the stronger your faith and connection with Allah will become.
“Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.” (Quran 58:11)
This verse teaches us that faith (iman) and knowledge are very important in Islam. When a person believes in Allah and seeks knowledge, Allah gives them a higher status in this world and in the next life.
For a new Muslim, this means that learning about Islam, prayer, the Quran, and good character will increase their faith and bring them closer to Allah. Even small efforts to learn something new every day will make a big difference in their journey as a Muslim.
10. Learn About Hajj and Zakat
As you grow in your faith, it’s important to learn about Hajj and Zakat, two key pillars of Islam.
Hajj is the pilgrimage to Makkah that every Muslim must try to perform at least once in their lifetime if they are able. It is a journey of faith, bringing Muslims from all over the world together in worship.
Zakat is a yearly charity that Muslims give to help those in need. If you have enough savings, you must give a small portion (2.5%) to the poor.
Allah says in Quran:
“And establish prayer and give Zakat.” (Quran 2:43)
Establishing prayer means making sure that we pray regularly and with sincerity. Prayer connects us to Allah, helps us stay on the right path, and brings peace to our hearts. Giving Zakat is a way to help those in need. Islam teaches us to share our wealth with the less fortunate. Even if a person is not yet required to give Zakat, they should still try to be kind and generous in whatever way they can.
Be Patient and Stay Strong
Your journey as a new Muslim will have challenges, but stay patient and trust Allah. Take it one step at a time, and don’t feel pressured to be perfect. Indeed, Allah says in Quran:
“Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” (Quran 94:6)
This verse gives hope and comfort to anyone going through difficulties. It reminds us that no matter how hard life gets, relief and ease will always follow.
For a new Muslim, adjusting to Islam might feel overwhelming at times—learning new prayers, changing habits, and facing challenges from family or society. But Allah promises that every hardship will come with ease and blessings.
Every small step you take brings you closer to Allah. Keep going, and don’t give up!
Enjoy Your New Life in Islam!
Being a new Muslim is a wonderful journey. Take your time, ask for help when needed, and trust in Allah’s plan for you. You are not alone—millions of Muslims around the world welcome you with open arms! If you have any questions or experiences to share, comment below! May Allah bless and guide you. Ameen.
