How Should a Recent Convert Build Their Knowledge of Islam?
Answered by Shaykh Abdullah Anik Misra
Question
I recently converted to Islam, and I would love to build my knowledge about Islam from the beginning as I am a new Muslim. Could I be given some guidance as to which course I shall take to help my knowledge? Thank you.
Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Merciful and Compassionate
Congratulations on your being guided to embrace Islam! May Allah Most High keep you firm on the straight path of His religion, His love, and His mercy.
My advice is that a recent convert should learn organically and gradually. Examples include going to a local Islamic center where you like the atmosphere, and get in touch with other women who can share their experiences and be friends while also seeking an older, more experienced sister in Islam for advice. Avoid any sectarian or strident voices and focus on the spiritual and uplifting.
Balance between reading beneficial books, socializing, maintaining your practice, and watching inspiring lectures. There is much misinformation, so get in touch with those who know authentic, mainstream traditional Islam to hear their recommendations. Experience Islamic devotional music (nasheeds) and art. Practice the social welfare and service that Islam teaches us by being kind to your family and friends. Do this while learning the basics of prayer and focusing on good character and your relationship with Allah Most Merciful.
Feel free to take a course on the Introduction to Islam:
Course: Introduction to Islam: What It Means to Be Muslim (seekers.flywheelstaging.com)
I can also recommend the book “Being Muslim” by Dr. Asad Tarsin.
As a fellow convert, I can tell you the journey is a marathon, not a sprint, so make the changes with gradualism, and please reach out if you need any other advice or have any questions.
Wassalam,
[Shaykh] Abdullah Anik Misra
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Shaykh Abdullah Misra was born in Toronto, Canada, in 1983. His family hails from India, and he was raised in the Hindu tradition. He embraced Islam in 2001 while at the University of Toronto, from where he completed a Bachelor of Business Administration. He then traveled overseas in 2005 to study the Arabic language and Islamic sciences in Tarim, Yemen, for some time, as well as Darul Uloom in Trinidad, West Indies. He spent 12 years in Amman, Jordan, where he focused on Islamic Law, Theology, Hadith Sciences, Prophetic Biography, and Islamic Spirituality while also working at the Qasid Arabic Institute as Director of Programs. He holds a BA in Islamic Studies (Alimiyya, Darul Uloom) and authorization in the six authentic books of Hadith and is currently pursuing specialized training in issuing Islamic legal verdicts (ifta’). He holds a certificate in Counselling and often works with new Muslims and those struggling with religious OCD. He is an instructor and researcher in Sacred Law and Theology with the SeekersGuidance The Global Islamic Seminary. Currently, He resides in the Greater Toronto Area with his wife and children. His personal interests include Indian history, comparative religion, English singing, and poetry.
