I would like to get some advice on prioritization for a new muslim:
what types of things should one study or learn first? Knowing,
understanding the basics of, and believing aqeedah came first for me,
and then I focussed on learning salat in Arabic. But beyond that, is
there any guidance on priorities as far as fiqh, more depth in
understanding aqeedah, learning Arabic, preparing to
fulfill the Hajj requirement and the other pillars?
And what are some ways or resources to learn and study, especially
when you live a bit of a distance from ADAMS (in MD)?
Any other insights on prioritization of energies and focus?
Thank you for your consideration and responses.
- Hanif, February 2001
Answer
If one has learned about the basic beliefs (aqeedah) and making salat in
Arabic, then he/she has learnt the first two pillars of Islam and also has
done the most important step after becoming Muslim. The rest of the pillars
are simple or are applicable when certain conditions are met. These are:
3rd Pillar: Paying zakat if one's income/asses is above a certain threshold (nisab)
4th Pillar: Making fast in Ramadan - a simple act with little details
5th Pillar: Doing pilgrimage if one is physically and economically able to do so
Beyond these, I would suggest to any new Muslim to remain very simple in his or her observance
of an Islamic life. Seeking knowledge is good and we
should all do that, but it is important for a new comer to Islam not to
overburden himself or herself with too many details beyond what the basic
Islamic teachings require.
After this cautionary remark, I would say that a new Muslim may read the
following book to get an understanding of Islamic perspectives on some basic
issues and matters that affect our life to-day. The book is: "The
Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam" by Dr. Yusuf al Qaradawi.
Equally important is staying in touch with the Masjid and the Muslim
community. ADAMS offers tafsir classes Friday evenings and also after
morning prayers in weekends. Both of these are excellent for all if one can
attend them.
These are my personal suggestions. Although very simple to follow if one
wants to keep it simple, Islam is also a very rich religion with so much to
learn and explore. One endowed with a yearn to learn more and develop an
Islamic intellect is certainly encouraged to enrich his or her quest for
such. That is alright as long as one does not overburden himself or
herself, has an objective, and stays focused in his or her goal of
life: that this wonderful life is a gift from Allah which is to be
spent in the way that is pleasing to Him and that we are soon to
return to Him to answer how we have spent it.
- Mushfiqur Rahman, 8 February 2001
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