Topic

Faith & Identity

Belief, doubts, repentance and finding your identity as a new Muslim. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Is bowing in karate or judo haram?

Bowing to a shrine or picture in karate or judo isn't allowed; scholars differ on bowing to a person. Most Muslims use a nod or hand on chest.

Be sure before your shahada. Leaving Islam is a grave sin, but in the West there's no legal penalty. Here's what to know.

Not right away, but most scholars recommend it. Converts usually follow their local mosque's school. Here's why.

No. The shahada makes you Muslim, not a sect. Sunni and Shia share the core of Islam. Here's what new Muslims should know.

Yes, belief in all God's messengers is a pillar of faith, but you don't need every name before your shahada.

Yes. Many converts grew up without religion. Islam teaches everyone is born with a sense of God. Here's where to start.

Yes, if you believe the core. You don't need every answer first; faith often grows after the shahada. Here's how.

Feelings alone aren't a sin, but cursing Allah is. The Prophet grieved too. Here's how to bring your pain to Allah.

Yes. As long as you sincerely repent each time, Allah keeps forgiving. Here's what real repentance is and how to break the cycle.

Yes, according to most scholars. Standing for the anthem is respect, not worship. A minority object. Here's what to consider.

No. Only Allah knows the future, so horoscopes and astrology aren't allowed, even for fun. Astronomy is fine. Here's what Islam says.

Islam doesn't rule out alien life. The Quran mentions creatures spread through the heavens and earth. Here's what Muslims believe.