Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

21. Is Islam a Misogynist religion?

Answer: Definitely not. In fact, Islam liberated women. Before the advent of Islam, pagan Arabs often buried their daughters alive. Prophet Muhammad’s arrival transformed these conditions. Islam granted women the right to own property over 500 years before the West did and taught men that it was their duty to support women, not just within marriage and family but also in safeguarding their social rights. While a few occupations, like military service, the judiciary, and head of state, were typically closed to women, these restrictions were symbolic rather than substantial. It wasn’t because women lacked the ability to fight, adjudicate, or lead but because these roles were seen as inherently masculine. Women had the right to criticize and participate in choosing their government and were never considered inferior to men. In contrast to Western views, where motherhood is increasingly seen as a hindrance to a woman's progress, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized that "heaven lies at the feet of mothers" and that the respect owed to mothers is three times greater than that owed to fathers. He also stated that a man who raises three daughters is guaranteed Paradise.

22. Is Islam a violent religion?

Answer: Of course not. While the media certainly sensationalizes terrible attacks by some so-called Muslims, no demonstrable data shows Muslims are more violent than any other religious group.

Military forces of various non-Muslim countries kill vastly more people than “So called Muslim terrorists.” While this does not excuse attacks by people who call themselves Muslims, context and framing matter. Violent crimes committed by some poppet Muslims are invariably presumed to be acts of terror, while substantially similar acts committed by all others are not treated as such. This has inflated the perceived terrorist proclivities of “Muslims.”

 

When it comes to the actual teachings of the Quran, Islam is the only religion that assures the real peace, security, satisfaction and salvation for mankind. Islam explicitly forbids the use of violence to promote or further Islam (Chapter 5, Verse 53).

 

The prophetic tradition, the source of much of practiced Islam, reveals that violence and war are only to be invoked as last resort. Prophet Muhammad’s ultimate conquering of Makkah, following his persecution and exile from his home, was completed without any bloodshed. Diplomacy and the negotiation of the Treaty of Hudaibiyah led to this major victory. This is the example that majority of Muslims around the world follow every day. The example teaches — and Islam preaches — that in antagonistic, adverse circumstances, we must resort to diplomacy, negotiation, and co-existence.

23. Why should a person be a Muslim?

Answer: The Arabic word ‘Islam’ means peace and submission, which are essential for every human being. We should embrace Islam because it fulfils our fundamental needs. Islam teaches us how to attain true peace of mind, certainty of heart, salvation from evil, and ultimately, entry into paradise by submitting to God and living according to His Divinely revealed Law. Becoming a Muslim offers a path to a life filled with purpose, peace, and moral integrity. It provides a comprehensive system of guidance, a sense of community, and a profound connection with the divine. For those seeking a balanced and fulfilling life guided by a clear and unwavering belief in one God, Islam presents a compelling choice.

24. What are the benefits of becoming a Muslim?

Answer: The benefits of becoming a Muslim encompass spiritual fulfilment, clear purpose, ethical guidance, a sense of community, a balanced lifestyle, intellectual satisfaction, justice, personal growth, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal reward for paradise and protection from hellfire. There are countless benefits to practicing Islam, both spiritual and physical. 
If you are submitted to your Lord, then you are:

 On the path of salvation.
 Enjoying direct conversations with your Lord through daily prayers.
 Realizing the true purpose of your life.
 Recognizing your God and following His commandments.
 Attaining true happiness, tranquillity, and inner peace.
 Constantly feeling that the Lord is with you, aware of everything, and taking care of you.
 Comforted by knowing that your previous sins are forgiven, with no need for confessions to other human beings.
 Receiving guidance to emerge from the darkness of confusion and doubt.

Additionally, you are considered amongst the best human being by performing good deeds and avoiding major and minor sins.

25. Should you know all about Islam before converting into it?

Answer: You do not need to know everything before converting.
Once you realise that there is only ONE True God to be worshiped, and that prophet Muhammad is his last prophet and messenger, and believe that Islam is the true religion of God, and then you should accept Islam and not delay it.  You will continue to learn more of the other things and in more depth after accepting Islam.
During the earliest stages of Islam, people would accept Islam after discovering its truth, and afterwards, began learning the prayers and reforming their lives.  You are not expected to know everything about everything before accepting Islam.  

None of us know when we may die.  Death can come at any time, without notice, and we do not want to be in a state of disbelief at that time, because it will be too late to seek the protection of Allah or his forgiveness. So the most important thing in this case would be to accept Islam without further delay.
 

26. What should I do if I am Afraid of how my family will react if I convert?

Answer: If you want to convert to Islam, you shouldn’t delay just because you fear how your parents may react.  We should do our best to please our Creator (Allah) over all others, even our parents.  It is permissible to hide your conversion until you feel it is safe to tell them.  You can decide when and where, and how to tell them later, but you should not delay converting until that time.  You can practice your new fain in secret until that time comes. We never know when we may die, and we do not want to be in a state of a non-Muslim if we faced a death resulting accident today or tomorrow.  On the Day of Judgment, our parents will not be able to save us, as each person will be accountable for themselves. Allah instructs us in the Qur’an regarding this:

“And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents, but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner) of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not. Unto Me is your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do.” (Quran 29:8)

“But if they (your parents) strive with you to make you join in worship with Me others that of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not, but behave with them in the world kindly, and follow the path of him who turns to Me in repentance and in obedience. Then to Me will be your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do.” (Quran 31:15)

27. What is Circumcision?

Answer: Circumcision involves cutting away the foreskin around the head, or glans, of the penis. Any competent Muslim doctor, even a general practitioner, is usually capable of performing the operation, which is usually done with a local or general anaesthetic.

28. Is It Obligatory for New Muslims to Get Circumcised?

Answer: You do not have to have it done for conversion. However, It has to be done when you are fully ready to practice the obligatory acts of Islam. If you can't have it done for any medical reason, or due to old age, then you are excused. In such cases you need to make sure you have cleaned yourself well after using the bathroom, as this is important for the validity of prayer

29. Why are more women than men converting to Islam?

Answer: The phenomenon of women converting to Islam more than men is observed in various parts of the world, and scholars and sociologists have provided several explanations for this trend. Some of the key reasons include:

  1. Search for Spiritual Fulfilment: Many women who convert to Islam report a search for spiritual meaning and fulfilment that they found lacking in their previous religious experiences. Islam's clear monotheism and its teachings about the purpose of life often resonate with individuals seeking definitive answers about faith and existence.
  2. Community and Belonging: Converts often cite the sense of community and belonging that Islam provides. This is particularly appealing to those who feel isolated or disconnected in their current environments. The Muslim community's emphasis on unity and support can be very attractive.
  3. Empowerment through Modesty: The Islamic concept of modesty, which includes the wearing of the hijab, is sometimes interpreted by converts as a form of empowerment rather than restriction. They may view it as a way to control how they are perceived, focusing more on intellectual and spiritual qualities rather than physical appearance.
  4. Structured Lifestyle: Islam offers a structured way of life through its prescribed practices, moral guidelines, and legal frameworks. This structure can provide a sense of order and purpose, which might be appealing for those seeking discipline and clear guidelines in their lives.
  5. Gender Roles: Some women are attracted to the distinct roles that Islam delineates for men and women. They may perceive these roles as offering respect and protection for women, along with clear expectations and responsibilities.
  6. Intellectual Engagement: Converts often report that their journey to Islam involved significant learning and intellectual engagement. The rich intellectual tradition of Islam, including scholarship and debate over religious texts, can be particularly appealing.
  7. Interpersonal Relationships: Relationships with Muslims, whether through friends, colleagues, or romantic partners, can often lead to exposure to Islamic beliefs and practices, eventually influencing conversion decisions.
  8. Reaction to Western Values: Some women convert to Islam as a critique or rejection of certain Western values, which they may perceive as overly materialistic, individualistic, or morally lax. Islam's emphasis on community, spirituality, and moral discipline can offer a compelling alternative.

These factors vary widely among individuals, and the personal journey of each convert is unique. The reasons for converting are deeply personal and can be influenced by a myriad of social, spiritual, and emotional factors

30. What are the main reasons for conversion to Islam?

Answer: The main reasons for converting to Islam vary widely among individuals, but some commonly cited motivations include:

  1. Spiritual Fulfilment: Many people are drawn to Islam for its clear and direct teachings on monotheism and the purpose of life, which they find spiritually fulfilling and philosophically satisfying.
  2. Sense of Community and Belonging: The strong sense of community and the inclusive, supportive network that Islam fosters can be very appealing, especially for those seeking a sense of belonging.
  3. Lifestyle and Structure: Islam provides a comprehensive way of life with clear guidelines and rituals, which can bring a sense of order and discipline to daily life.
  4. Ethical and Moral Framework: The ethical teachings of Islam, which promote honesty, charity, and compassion, attract those seeking a strong moral foundation in their lives.
  5. Intellectual Engagement: The rich intellectual tradition of Islam, including the study of the Quran and Hadith, appeals to those who are looking for a deeply reasoned and scholarly approach to religion.

Each individual’s journey to Islam is unique, often influenced by personal, social, and spiritual factors.

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