How many times do you come to a crossroads in your life? These moments are pivotal, filled with excitement and fear, as they can shape your future profoundly. Deciding to buy a house, marry a certain person, or take a specific job are significant choices. But what if the decision involves changing your entire way of life?
Such a decision must be grounded in knowledge, inner certainty, and commitment. When you choose to accept Islam, all of nature rejoices, and the Muslim community welcomes you with open arms.
Discovering Islam
You’ve heard about Islam and developed an interest. You read books, listened to lectures, and engaged in discussions. You’ve contemplated your life and its direction. Perhaps you’ve distanced yourself from old friends, finding yourself in a transitional phase. Your family might be uncertain about the changes in you, viewing them as a passing phase or feeling threatened by your newfound seriousness.
You’ve experienced a spiritual awakening, come to know your Creator, and wish to be close to Him, earning His pleasure. You believe that by surrendering to God, acknowledging His existence and right to be obeyed, and following His last prophet, you will be on the straight path to success and happiness in this life and the next.
The Moment of Truth
The time comes to visit a local Islamic center, mosque, or meet with Muslims to witness your declaration of faith, entering the Muslim community. This step is exciting yet daunting, as you wonder if you can uphold the covenant with Allah. Declaring your faith means worshiping only Allah and obeying His commands above all others.
Allah tells us in the Quran:
[Quran 31:15] “And if they contend with you that you should associate with Me what you have no knowledge of, do not obey them, and keep company with them in this world kindly, and follow the way of him who turns to Me, then to Me is your return, then will I inform you of what you did.”
Standing Firm in Faith
This faith declaration is a significant milestone. Your covenant with Allah obliges you to stand up for what is right. For instance, Islam forbids intoxicants like drugs and alcohol. If someone pressures you to drink to maintain social status or a job, your promise to Allah empowers you to resist, regardless of the consequences.
Strength Through Trials
Standing up for righteousness and caring for others, despite manipulative pressures, requires courage. Passing such tests brings great rewards from Allah. The more you resist temptations, the stronger and more peaceful you become, knowing you are doing the right thing.
When uncertain, the Quran and Sunnah provide guidance, not personal opinions or desires.
[Quran 4:59] “O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you; then if you quarrel about anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you believe in Allah and the last day; this is better and very good in the end.”
Continuous Renewal of Faith
Declaring faith is not a one-time act. Muslims renew this covenant with Allah during daily prayers, reinforcing their commitment to worship, obedience, and spreading goodness.
Embracing a New Life
This first declaration marks the transition from old habits and beliefs to new ones that promote growth and betterment. Muslims are vigilant about their actions, seeking forgiveness and making amends when mistakes are made. There is no intermediary between the worshiper and Allah, who is All-Powerful and All-Forgiving.
[Quran 4:110] “And whoever does evil or wrongs himself but afterwards seeks Allah’s Forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
The Path to Paradise
Your initial declaration of faith is the first step on a path trodden by all prophets and pious people. This path, though surrounded by tests and difficulties, leads to Paradise—eternal happiness and closeness to Allah.
Embrace this journey with knowledge, certainty, and commitment, knowing that Allah’s guidance and mercy are always near.
By Anthea Davis
