If you are able, try to speak to them or find a different Islamic community to be a part of. Do not let the actions of a few dictate your feelings. They may treat converts differently or not acknowledge them at all. While this is not true in all communities, some Muslims seem to avoid converts. Although they might push away at first, give them time, they may come around once they get used to the idea. They may not understand the difference between true Islam and the Islam portrayed in the media that is defiled by terrorists and they may worry for your safety. They may worry that you do not fully understand what you are doing. Your spouse, children, other family members or friends may be confused and unsure of your decision. Your parents or caregivers may feel like you are abandoning the very values and beliefs they had hoped to instill in you.

Not everyone is going to be happy about your decision. To keep anyone else from facing the same surprises, here’s a list of tips to make your transition after Shahada as smooth as possible. To my surprise, I was not completely ready and questioned my decision for a short time. I had read and searched and prayed for my questions to be answered and when I was asked “What are you waiting for?” I did not have an answer, so I went for it. When I said my Shahada almost four years ago, I thought I was ready. Unfortunately, many people are not prepared for the changes that will take place making their journey in Islam painful instead of pleasing and chaotic instead of calming. One thing is for certain, their life will never be the same again. Muslims must declare: “ La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur rasoolu Allah” which means, “There is not true god (deity) but God (Allah), and Muhammad is the Messenger (Prophet) of God.”Ī person may feel a variety of emotions after the Shahada or nothing special at all. Shahadais the first of five pillars, or basic components, of following Islam. I had read and searched and prayed for my questions to be answered and when I was asked “What are you waiting for?” According to Islamic teachings, they have to take an oath or Shahada. Once a person has learned about the basics of faith and is ready to fully commit, it is time to reconcile with God.

No matter what has led you to discover Islam, you have a huge decision to make: take Shahada or not.įor those of you unfamiliar with the steps to become a Muslim, it is quite similar to becoming a born-again Christian.

Eureka! You have finally found the missing link! Perhaps you have been feeling an emptiness lurking in your heart or a general dissatisfaction with the religion you have been taught.

Shahada transliteration