The First 20 Things a New Muslim (Revert) Should Learn About Islam
Entering Islam is a profound and life-changing journey. For many reverts, the experience is filled with peace, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose—but it can also feel overwhelming at the beginning. There is so much to learn, and often the question becomes: Where do I start?
At Revert Space, we believe that learning Islam should be simple, structured, and spiritually uplifting—not confusing or heavy. This guide outlines the first 20 essential things every new Muslim should learn. These are not just topics, but foundational building blocks that will help you grow steadily in your faith, confidence, and connection with Allah.
1. Understanding the Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
The first and most important step is fully understanding the Shahada:
“La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur Rasul Allah” (There is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)
This statement is not just words—it is a commitment to a new way of life. It means:
- Worshipping Allah alone
- Following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
2. Who is Allah?
A revert should begin by learning who Allah is:
- The One Creator of everything
- Merciful, Just, and All-Knowing
- Unique, with no partners, children, or equals
Understanding Allah builds the foundation of your relationship with Him.
3. The Purpose of Life
Islam teaches that our purpose is simple and powerful:
- To worship Allah
- To live according to His guidance
- To prepare for the Hereafter
This gives meaning to every action in life.
4. Learning the Five Pillars of Islam
These are the core acts of worship:
- Shahada (Faith)
- Salah (Prayer)
- Zakah (Charity)
- Sawm (Fasting Ramadan)
- Hajj (Pilgrimage)
A revert should gradually understand each pillar without feeling rushed.
5. How to Pray (Salah)
Prayer is the daily connection with Allah. Start step-by-step:
- Learn how to perform wudu (ablution)
- Memorize short surahs (chapters of the Qur’an)
- Learn the movements of prayer
Consistency matters more than perfection at the beginning.
6. Purification (Wudu and Cleanliness)
Islam emphasizes cleanliness:
- Physical purification (wudu, ghusl)
- Spiritual purification (repentance and sincerity)
Cleanliness is part of faith.
7. The Qur’an – Your Guide
The Qur’an is the direct word of Allah:
- Start by reading translation
- Reflect on meanings
- Build a daily habit, even if small
The Qur’an is a lifelong companion.
8. Who is Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)?
Learn about:
- His character (kindness, honesty, mercy)
- His life and struggles
- His teachings
He is the best example for Muslims.
9. Basic Beliefs (Aqeedah)
A Muslim believes in:
- Allah
- Angels
- Books
- Prophets
- Day of Judgment
- Divine Decree
These beliefs shape your worldview.
10. Halal and Haram (What is Allowed and Forbidden)
Start with basics:
- Halal food (avoid pork and alcohol)
- Lawful earnings
- Avoiding major sins
Take it step by step—Islam is a journey, not instant perfection.
11. Building a Relationship with Allah
Islam is not just rules—it is a relationship:
- Make dua (supplication)
- Speak to Allah in your own words
- Trust Him in all situations
12. Importance of Intentions (Niyyah)
In Islam, actions are judged by intentions:
- Even small actions can become عبادات (acts of worship)
- Be sincere in everything you do
13. Learning Basic Arabic (Gradually)
Arabic helps you:
- Understand prayer
- Connect with the Qur’an
Start small—letters, sounds, short words.
14. Modesty and Dress
Islam encourages modesty in:
- Clothing
- Behavior
- Speech
This applies to both men and women.
15. Good Character (Akhlaq)
One of the most important parts of Islam:
- Honesty
- Patience
- Kindness
- Respect
The Prophet said the best Muslims are those with the best character.
16. Dealing with Family and Society
Many reverts face challenges:
- Family misunderstanding
- Cultural differences
Islam teaches patience, respect, and wisdom in dealing with others.
17. The Importance of Community
Try to:
- Visit the mosque
- Meet other Muslims
- Join supportive groups (like Revert Space)
Community helps you stay strong.
18. Repentance (Tawbah)
Allah is always ready to forgive:
- No matter your past
- No matter your mistakes
Turn back to Him sincerely.
19. Taking It Step by Step
Islam was revealed gradually:
- Don’t overwhelm yourself
- Focus on consistency
- Grow at your own pace
Progress is more important than speed.
20. Staying Firm and Motivated
Your journey will have ups and downs:
- Keep learning
- Keep praying
- Keep trusting Allah
Remember: guidance is a gift, and you have been chosen for it.
Final Words
Becoming Muslim is not the end—it is the beginning of a beautiful journey. You don’t need to know everything overnight. What matters most is sincerity, effort, and a heart that seeks Allah.
At Revert Space, we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether through courses, community, or guidance, our mission is to make your journey into Islam clear, structured, and full of purpose.
Take your time. Stay consistent. And always remember—Allah sees your effort, even when no one else does.
Absolutely not. All courses on Revert Space are taught in English (with other language options available), and Arabic terms are always explained in clear, simple language. Learning Arabic is a wonderful goal, and Revert Space offers dedicated Arabic courses for beginners, but it is never a prerequisite for any revert class.
Revert Space offers a generous free tier that includes access to the core New Muslim Starter Curriculum, community forums, and selected recorded sessions. Premium membership unlocks the full library of courses, live sessions, and one-on-one scholar consultations. Revert Space believes that no new Muslim should be prevented from learning due to financial constraints.
Revert Space provides private consultation options where you can submit questions directly to qualified scholars via a secure, confidential messaging system. This is especially valuable for reverts dealing with sensitive personal situations such as family opposition to their conversion, marital issues, or private questions about Islamic rulings.
Even 20 to 30 minutes of focused daily study will produce significant progress over time. Revert Space courses are designed to be flexible and self-paced, so you can study as much or as little as your schedule allows. Consistency is the key a little every day is far more effective than hours once a week.
Yes and in fact, that is the perfect time to join. Revert Space was specifically designed for people in the earliest stages of their Islamic journey. The platform meets you exactly where you are, with no prior knowledge required and no judgment about where you are starting from. You are welcome here from day one.
Yes. Revert Space welcomes new Muslims of every nationality, ethnicity, age, and background. The platform includes content for male and female reverts, including dedicated sisters-only spaces for Muslim women who prefer gender-segregated learning environments.