I Haven’t Prayed for Two Years After I Reverted. How Can I Start?
Answered by Imam Yama Niazi
Question
I haven’t prayed since I reverted two years ago because my family didn’t accept it, and I can’t digest their harsh treatment. I know many reverts face the same situation, and some have fought their way out. I’ve been trying to get out of my predicament and make dua for years, but no matter how hard I try, I can’t seem to break free. If I only knew the consequences of my choice, I would endure all of it.
I need some steps to prepare myself for prayer, but I’m not sure where to begin.
Answer
Dear questioner,
May Allah grant you comfort and ease and make you pass this hurdle soon, insha’Allah.
Remember that being a Muslim in our times is not always easy, even more so perhaps with some challenges that a convert may face.
The Struggle of Those before Us
I recommend a dose of Quranic reading and reflection daily. Please read on the trials of Asiyah, the wife of Pharoah, and the story of many before us. Their stories are all about struggle and hardship, and perseverance. In all the many stores and lessons in the Quran, the righteous succeed. That is all that matters.
Life Is Full of Trials
Life is all about trials and tests. Allah says in the Quran, “˹He is the One˺ Who created death and life to test which of you is best in deeds. And He is the Almighty, All-Forgiving.” [Quran, 67:2]
“Do people think they will be left alone after saying ‘We believe’ without being put to the test?” [Quran, 29:2]
There are immense rewards in being patient. Allah is with the patient.
I would recommend that you find a place to retreat to pray comfortably.
Praying is our most important connection to Allah. Take some time to reflect on the reality of life. What is a better purpose than pleasing God and working towards attaining His love and mercy?
Repentance
Allah has informed us in the Quran of His immense mercy:
“He is the One Who accepts repentance from His servants and pardons ˹their˺ sins. And He knows whatever you do.” [Quran, 42:25]
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The person who repents from sin is like the one who never sinned.” [Ibn Maja]
Conclusion
Do not let the creation busy you from the Creator! Ask Allah to make it easy for you and then get moving on your prayers and do not delay a single prayer anymore. Remember that you will meet Allah one day and what a better way to meet Him than to show Him that you prefer His worship over anything else in the universe.
I hope this helps,
[Imam] Yama Niazi
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Imam Yama Niazi has studied with local scholars in the USA for a number of years which culminated in him becoming an imam of the Islamic Society of Santa Barbara for 8 years. He served the community by teaching and leading prayers. In 2015 he founded “ the blessed tree “ a nonprofit specifically for bridging gaps between the Muslim community and others. He has spoken on many Muslim platforms throughout the USA and Canada and conducted programs in local communities in North America. He is an instructor at SeekersGuidance.
