Top Ten Problems

In history the main problem faced by converts to Islam was persecution. Today however the problems aren’t as extreme (well openly anyway) but can themselves have regretful impacts. The internet suggests these problems are faced by a large number of converts, regardless of their gender, and are in fact common and showing a trend in the similarity of the problems through various websites. Most are a by-product of the ethnicization of mosques where people are judged by culture and race rather than religious ethics. During this post I want to highlight the key problems faced by Muslim converts, with my following post indicating solutions to eradicate these problems as an Ummah. These ideas have been gathered from blogs and forums where people have noted the problems they face. One blog in particular did a good job of simply summing up the problems, but failed to advise how to effectively stop them.  

So, typical problems discussed online are:

·         Sharing the news of conversion with family/friends/colleagues

·         Perceptions of others and identifying as a new Muslim

·         Extended shahadas

·         Becoming part of a minority

·         Finding a place/community to practice the faith in and/or with

·         Exploited by ‘extremist’ organizations early after conversion

·         Susceptible to varying beliefs leading to confusion over doctrines/school of thought to follow

·         Practical issues e.g. marriage, relationship with non-Muslims

·         Issues of alienation/isolation/belonging

·         Lack of counselling support/ facilities for converts

This list isn’t a worthy indication of all the problems faced by converts. Believe it or not there are many more and vary with people's experiences. That’s not to say Islam is a problematic religion or unwelcoming. And for anyone who asks “why bother?” well this blog should give you a good indication as to why! There are wonderful and welcoming born Muslims that are not hard to find (I myself being one!). I believe the main problem is once the celebration of becoming a Muslim is over people tend to become careless and let converts deal with the drastic changes to their lives on their own – leading to that sense of isolation mentioned earlier which is the last thing they need – as sometimes they are forced to leave their families behind them anyway! Embracing Islam isn’t just about practices to better oneself – there is a whole issue of responsibilities and kindness to others. Put yourself for a moment in the shoes of a convert, whether to Islam or any other religion - how would you feel if you were singled out and/or not considered a real believer by the members of your new faith? If you weren't offered that moral support to keep you firm on this faith..would you think twice about the decision you just made? Would you even consider bowing out....again?