Islam is a religion that embraces all of humanity, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. Its message is one of peace, submission to God, and living a life of purpose and meaning. The teachings of Islam provide guidance on all aspects of life, from personal conduct to social relations, offering a path to spiritual fulfillment and inner peace.

The first step to becoming a Muslim is to declare the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith. It is a simple yet profound statement that encapsulates the core beliefs of Islam:

“Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah.”

This translates to:

“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”¹

By reciting the Shahada with sincerity and conviction, one enters the fold of Islam. It signifies a belief in the oneness of God and the acceptance of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) as the final messenger of God.

Living a Life of Righteousness

Becoming a Muslim is not just about changing one’s religious affiliation but about embracing a new way of life. It is a commitment to living in accordance with God’s will, striving for moral excellence, and contributing to the well-being of society. The Quran encourages Muslims to:

“Enjoin good and forbid evil.” (Quran 3:104)

This verse highlights the active role Muslims are expected to play in promoting righteousness and combating injustice. By living a life guided by Islamic principles, Muslims can contribute to creating a more just, compassionate, and harmonious world.

Initiation into the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

If you are interested in formally joining the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, there is a process of initiation called Bai’at. This involves pledging allegiance to the Khalifa of the time, the spiritual leader of the community, and committing to upholding the ten conditions of Bai’at. These conditions include:

1. To abstain from associating partners with God in any way.
2. To avoid stealing, dishonesty, and falsehood.
3. To offer the five daily prayers regularly.
4. To abstain from adultery and fornication.
5. To never use intoxicants or gamble.
6. To obey the Khalifa of the time and remain loyal to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
7. To propagate the message of Islam through personal example and peaceful means.
8. To prioritize faith over worldly matters.
9. To show compassion and kindness to all people, regardless of faith or background.
10. To maintain a high moral standard and strive for spiritual growth.

If you are interested in learning more about Islam or becoming a Muslim, we welcome you to contact us at hawaii@ahmadiyya.us. We would be happy to answer your questions, provide resources, and support you on your journey of faith.