Islam is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes submission to the will of Allah (God). Every year, countless individuals from diverse backgrounds choose to revert to Islam, drawn by its teachings, simplicity, and spiritual guidance. The term “revert” is often preferred over “convert” because Islam teaches that every human being is born in a state of fitrah, a natural disposition of purity and submission to Allah. Thus, accepting Islam is seen as a return to this original state of spiritual purity.
This guide offers a detailed overview of the steps and spiritual aspects involved in reverting to Islam, covering both the theological foundations and the practical steps necessary for embracing the faith.
Understanding the Core Beliefs of Islam
Before reverting to Islam, it’s essential to understand the core beliefs that define the religion. Islam is based on five pillars of practice and six pillars of faith, which form the foundation of a Muslim’s life and worldview.
The Five Pillars of Islam (Arkan al-Islam)
The five pillars represent the basic acts of worship that every Muslim is obligated to observe. These pillars provide a structured framework for living a life in submission to Allah.
Shahada (Faith) – Declaration of Faith: The Shahada is the fundamental expression of Islamic belief. It is the declaration that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad (PBUH) is His final messenger. This statement is the gateway to entering Islam and represents complete submission to Allah’s oneness and the acceptance of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the last prophet.
Arabic: Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah.
Translation: “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
Salah (Prayer) – The Ritual Prayer: Muslims are required to pray five times a day at prescribed times. These prayers are a direct connection between the individual and Allah, performed in Arabic and involving physical movements like bowing and prostration. Prayer is a way of remembering Allah throughout the day and maintaining spiritual discipline.
Zakat (Charity) – Almsgiving: Zakat is a mandatory charitable contribution, usually 2.5% of one’s savings, given annually to help those in need. It purifies wealth by recognizing that all sustenance comes from Allah and fosters compassion and community support.
Sawm (Fasting) – Fasting in Ramadan: During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. Fasting cultivates self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth.
Hajj (Pilgrimage) – Pilgrimage to Mecca: Once in a lifetime, every Muslim who is financially and physically able must undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca. Hajj is a profound spiritual journey that reinforces unity among Muslims and submission to Allah.
The Six Pillars of Faith (Arkan al-Iman)
The six pillars of faith outline the core beliefs that every Muslim holds. They represent the unseen realities of the Islamic worldview.
Belief in Allah (Tawhid): The belief in the oneness of Allah is central to Islam. Allah is the sole creator, sustainer, and ruler of the universe. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and merciful.
Belief in Angels: Muslims believe in the existence of angels, created by Allah from light. Angels carry out Allah’s commands and have specific roles, such as delivering revelations to the prophets or recording human deeds.
Belief in the Divine Scriptures: Islam teaches that Allah revealed holy scriptures to various prophets, including the Torah (given to Moses), the Psalms (given to David), the Gospel (given to Jesus), and finally, the Qur’an, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Qur’an is the final, complete, and preserved revelation.
Belief in the Prophets: Muslims believe in all the prophets sent by Allah, from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally, Muhammad (PBUH), who is the seal of the prophets. Each prophet conveyed the message of monotheism and submission to Allah.
Belief in the Day of Judgment: Islam teaches that life is a test, and after death, every individual will be resurrected and judged by Allah. Those who led righteous lives will enter Paradise, while those who rejected Allah and committed evil will be punished in Hell.
Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar): Muslims believe that everything in the universe unfolds according to Allah’s divine will and wisdom. While humans have free will to make choices, ultimately, everything happens according to Allah’s plan.
Steps to Revert to Islam
Reverting to Islam is a straightforward process that requires sincere belief and a few key steps. It is not necessary to have an intermediary, such as an imam or cleric, to convert. It is, however, recommended to revert in the presence of witnesses, especially at a mosque, to help integrate into the Muslim community.
1. Declaring the Shahada (Testimony of Faith)
The act of formally embracing Islam begins with the recitation of the Shahada, the declaration of faith, with full conviction and understanding. By reciting the Shahada, you affirm your belief in the oneness of Allah and the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH). This is the most important step in becoming a Muslim.
Steps to Recite the Shahada:
Make the intention (in your heart) to embrace Islam sincerely for the sake of Allah.
Say the Shahada aloud in Arabic and, optionally, in your native language.
“Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah.”
Translation: “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
After reciting the Shahada with sincerity, you are officially considered a Muslim. This act alone purifies a person’s soul, and according to Islamic teachings, all past sins are forgiven upon reverting.
2. Performing Ghusl (Ritual Purification)
After reciting the Shahada, it is recommended (but not obligatory) to perform ghusl, a full-body ritual purification. This act symbolizes a new beginning, as all past sins are wiped clean upon accepting Islam.
How to Perform Ghusl:
- Make the intention to perform ghusl for purification.
- Wash your hands three times.
- Rinse your mouth and nose three times.
- Wash your entire body, ensuring water reaches every part, including your hair.
Performing ghusl after accepting Islam is a spiritual and physical act of purification, symbolizing the fresh start that comes with reversion.
3. Learning and Practicing the Essentials of Islam
After reverting to Islam, it’s essential to begin learning and practicing the fundamentals of the faith, including how to pray, fast, and follow Islamic ethics. It’s a gradual process, and new Muslims are encouraged to take it step by step.
Learning Salah (The Five Daily Prayers):
Learning how to perform the five daily prayers (Salah) is a vital aspect of Islam. Salah includes specific postures and recitations, all of which are done in Arabic. Many mosques offer classes for new Muslims to teach them how to pray.
Start by learning the basic prayers in Arabic.
Practice the movements (standing, bowing, and prostrating) that accompany the recitations.
Reading and Understanding the Qur’an:
Start reading the Qur’an, preferably with a translation in your native language to understand its meaning. Engaging with the Qur’an will deepen your understanding of Allah’s guidance and the principles of Islam.
Connecting with the Muslim Community:
After accepting Islam, it’s important to connect with your local Muslim community. Mosques and Islamic centers often offer support for new Muslims, including mentorship, classes, and social events.
Practical Advice for New Muslims
Take It One Step at a Time:
Transitioning to Islam is a lifelong journey, and it’s important not to feel overwhelmed by the new practices and knowledge. Islam encourages gradual improvement, and you can take small steps to incorporate Islamic teachings into your daily life.
Seek Knowledge:
Islam places great emphasis on seeking knowledge. As a new Muslim, it’s important to learn about the faith, its teachings, and practices. Books, online resources, and scholars can help deepen your understanding.
Find a Mentor:
Having a mentor or friend who is knowledgeable in Islam can be extremely beneficial. They can help guide you in learning how to pray, fast, and practice other aspects of the religion.
Be Patient with Family and Friends:
Not everyone may understand your decision to revert to Islam, and it might take time for family and friends to accept it. Be patient, show them the beauty of Islam through your actions, and try to communicate your reasons for embracing the faith respectfully.
Engage in Personal Spiritual Development:
Focus on building a strong connection with Allah through prayer, supplication (du’a), and recitation of the Qur’an. As your understanding of Islam grows, so will your relationship with Allah.
Reverting to Islam is a deeply personal and spiritual decision that marks the beginning of a
