All Questions

Every question answered on MuslimWay, newest first: short, honest answers for new Muslims and people curious about Islam in Europe and the US.

Can I hold my baby while praying?

Yes. The Prophet prayed while carrying his granddaughter Umamah and shortened prayers for crying babies. Here's what parents need to know.

No, but sitting is better. The Prophet usually drank sitting, yet also drank standing. Here's how scholars combine both, plus easy drinking sunnahs.

Yes. There's no Islamic rule against cutting nails at night. It's a superstition. Here's the sunnah of nail clipping and the 40-day limit.

No, flavored and sugar-free gum break the fast for most scholars. Here's why, plus mints, nicotine gum, and what if you chewed by mistake.

Scholars differ on music. Here are the stricter and more lenient views, what everyone agrees on, and how new Muslims can change gradually.

No, not overnight. Here's what the hadith says about the beard, how scholars differ, gradual change, and what to do if work requires a shave.

Don't wear it, and scholars differ on keeping it. Here are gentle options many converts choose that still honor their grandma.

Yes. Food cooked by a non-Muslim isn't impure. Here's which ingredients to check, what about her pots and pans, and how to talk to your mom.

Scholars differ on saying Merry Christmas. Here are both views, greetings everyone is comfortable with, and tips for the office party.

No. Swallowing your own saliva never breaks your fast. Here's what about phlegm, tasting food, wudu water and eating by mistake.

Yes, as long as you don't swallow toothpaste. Miswak is a sunnah even while fasting. Here's a simple Ramadan routine for clean teeth.

It depends. Stretching and fitness poses are fine for most scholars, but chants, mantras and bowing to statues aren't. Here's how to keep it halal.