I discussed this recently with a local sister, Cath, as we have both been on pilgrimage to Makkah. She went there for Hajj with her husband two-and-a-half years after saying her Shahadah and I was able to go to perform Umrah with a group of sisters two years after mine.

Salam Dear Abdullah, Thank you for your question and for contacting Ask About Islam. We would like to welcome you to the fold of Islam, the religion which you think is the right way to follow. We ask Allah the Almighty to help you remain steadfast in following the teachings of Islam. Every day we hear …

I have just returned from the most amazing holiday in Tunisia. My husband and I traveled to the Yasmine Hammamet area of Tunisia. Although the area was commercialized to some extend for tourism, I still found that it kept many of its traditional roots…

Coming from the land of 10,000 lakes means that being on the beach or boating is a part of local culture. While all of my friends and family were in their summer clothing, I still covered my arms and legs, and I could never find a good answer to all of their questions.

In this counseling answer: • You can educate them on what a Muslim is by being a good example in your conduct and treatment of them. • Your parents do love you. They are just confused, angry and probably scared. • I kindly suggest dear sister that you if you seek out Muslim friendships in …

Salam Dear Bethany, Thank you for your question and for contacting Ask About Islam. First of all as regards your friend who is a boy: (I assume that you have no sexual relationship with him, and that he is, as you say, a friend.) The rules of modesty in the Quran are aimed at preventing …

Short Answer: First, find a good translation of the meanings of the Quran in your own language. If it’s your first time reading the Quran, plan a quick overview reading and a second in-depth reading. Also, listening to the Quran being recited can really help. If you come across something which is difficult to understand or which …

Short Answer: Fasting is not intended as hardship. Make lots of du’aa as supplication is the essence of worship. Remember Allah often as this is a great way to strengthen your connection with Allah. Don’t be overwhelmed. Allah appreciates every effort that you do for His sake and He will reward you for it. No difficulty …

Short Answer: The focus during fasting in Ramadan is on feeding the soul. Ramadan is a month when Allah expiates believers past sins, and opens the wide doors of Paradise. Remember while reading the Quran, try to reflect on its beautiful deep meanings as reflecting on the Quran is a major act of worship. _____________________________________ Salam (Peace) …