First of all, I’m really proud of you for trying. That effort you’re making is already beloved to Allah.

Praying can feel hard at first, especially when you’re learning new things like the Arabic recitation. But here’s something to remember: Allah sees your struggle, and He loves it when you’re trying to come closer to Him. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

Some steps I can share,

Step 1: Make a sincere intention (niyyah)

• Tell yourself why you want to pray and get better — for Allah alone.

• Make dua asking Allah to help you love and improve your prayers.

Step 2: Start with the basics of prayer

• Learn the names and order of the prayer steps (standing, bowing, prostration, sitting).

• Use YouTube videos like “Learn how to pray” or visit your local mosque to see the prayer done.

Step 3: Memorize the short Surahs and essential phrases first

• Start with Surah Al-Fatihah and short surahs like Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas.

• Use Quran.com or apps with audio to listen and repeat.

Step 4: Practice little by little every day

• Practice reciting the parts you know slowly with correct pronunciation (tajweed).

• Don’t rush; focus on quality over speed.

Step 5: Watch tajweed and prayer tutorials regularly

• Follow lessons on Bayyinah TV or YouTube channels like “Learn Quran with Tajweed.”

• Pause and repeat the lessons as many times as you need.

Step 6: Use apps to remind you and help practice

• Download Muslim Pro or Quran Companion for prayer times and audio recitations.

• Practice reciting along with the audio when you have free time.

Step 7: Pray consistently, even if it feels slow or hard

• Remember the Prophet ﷺ said the most beloved deeds are consistent ones, even if small.

• Don’t worry about speed at first; speed will come naturally with practice.

Step 8: Reflect on the meaning and importance of prayer

• Read about the benefits and rewards of prayer to increase your motivation.

• Remember prayer is your special connection with Allah.

Step 9: Join a class or ask a teacher for help if possible

• Learning with a teacher can correct your mistakes and speed up your progress.

• Many mosques offer classes for kids and beginners.

Step 10: Keep making dua and be patient

• Ask Allah every day to make your prayer easy and loved.

• Be patient with yourself and trust that improvement will come.

  You’re only 13, and the fact that you’re thinking like this now means you’re already ahead. Keep going. You’ve got this. And remember: every step you take toward Allah, He comes closer to you.
  As the Prophet ﷺ said in a Hadith Qudsi:

  “If My servant comes to Me walking, I go to him at speed.”
  (Sahih al-Bukhari)

  May Allah make your prayers easy, fill your heart with love for Him, and guide you always. Keep going — you’re on the right path.

Hey there,

First off, thank you for being so open and vulnerable. I know that wasn’t easy, and the fact that you’re still reaching out, still praying, still trying, even in all this pain… that says so much about the strength of your heart. You might not see it right now, but I promise—it’s there.

Let’s just be real for a sec…

Feeling like your Iman has dipped? That’s not strange. That’s part of being human. Even the Sahaba (companions of the Prophet ﷺ) used to worry when their Iman went up and down. It’s not a straight line. Some days it’s strong, other days—like now—it feels like it’s slipping through your fingers. But that doesn’t mean you’ve lost it.

The fact that you still turn to Allah, that you’re still praying, still begging Him—that is Iman. Maybe not loud and glowing, but quietly hanging on. And Allah sees that. Wallahi, He does.

About your mental health…

It sounds like you’ve been trying to carry everything alone—and that’s heavy. Especially with ethnic parents, I get it. Sometimes it feels impossible to bring this stuff up without fear, right? But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get support. You deserve support.

Mental health struggles aren’t a sign of weak faith. They’re a test, yes, but they are also something you can and should seek help for. Just like we treat a broken bone, we treat a hurting heart or mind.

There are Muslim therapists out there, or even hotlines where you can stay anonymous. Just having someone listen without judgment can change everything.

That feeling of “not being real”…

What you described—feeling disconnected, like you’re watching life from the outside—is actually a common symptom in mental health called dissociation. And it usually comes up when the brain is overwhelmed. It’s your mind trying to protect you from emotional overload. Again—you’re not broken. You’re exhausted.

That doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’ve been strong for too long without the rest you need.

Death thoughts: The hard part

I hear you. It’s heavy. You’re caught between understanding death from an Islamic point and also just wanting peace from all this hurt. I won’t sugarcoat it—that’s a dark space to be in.

But I want you to remember: you’re not the only one who’s felt this way. So many Muslims, even deeply practising ones, have sat in this same space and still made it out. Not because they were “better,” but because they reached out, step by step.

You’ve already done the first step. You’re here. You’re talking about it. That’s huge.

So what now?

Let’s make this simple, okay?

• Keep praying, even if it’s just lying on your bed whispering “Ya Allah, help me.”

• Write down how you feel and direct it to Allah. A raw dua. No filter. Just pour it out.

• Talk to someone—any trusted adult, youth leader, or mental health support line. You deserve to be heard.

• Be kind to yourself. If you can’t do a lot, do a little. Listen to Qur’an. Sit in the sun. Drink water. Stretch. Rest.

Small steps. One breath at a time. That’s all you need right now.

My personal dua for you:

Ya Allah,
This heart is hurting, this soul feels lost—please, wrap them in Your mercy.
Let them feel You close when the world feels far.
Fill their chest with peace. Let light reach into every dark corner inside.
Send them comfort they never expected and people who truly care.
And if they forget how to love life, remind them that you still love them.
Ameen.

You’re not alone, okay?

I’m here. And Allah—Al-Wadud, the Most Loving—is always near. Even now. Especially now.

Talk to me any time. You matter.

As-salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh, dear brother/sister.

Alhamdulillah, you have concern for the completeness of your Salah, and that is a beautiful sign of sincerity. May Allah accept all your prayers and grant you khushu’ (deep focus) in Salah.

Is Your Salah Valid?

Yes, your Salah is valid even if you are unable to fully complete the Durood Sharif and supplications before the Imam says the Salam (Taslim).

Understanding the Ruling

1. Following the Imam is the priority.

   • When praying behind an Imam in congregational Salah, the rule is to follow him closely and not delay actions significantly.

   • The Prophet ﷺ said:

     “The Imam is appointed to be followed, so do not differ from him…” (Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)

2. The essential part of the final sitting (Qa’dah Akhirah) is Attahiyyat.

   • The minimum requirement for the validity of Salah is to complete the Tashahhud (Attahiyyat) before the Imam gives Salam.

   • Durood Sharif and supplications are highly recommended (Sunnah), but not obligatory. If you don’t complete them before the Imam ends the prayer, your Salah is still valid.

What Should You Do?

• Try to recite a little faster without losing focus. You don’t need to rush, but if your pace is significantly slower than others, adjusting slightly can help.

• If you wish to complete the Durood Sharif and dua, you may continue reciting them after the Salah is over. This is a great habit to increase your supplications.

• Some scholars mention that if you are very close to finishing, you may complete your recitation quickly before giving Salam, but you should not delay excessively.

Final Reassurance

Don’t worry, dear brother/sister. Your Salah is completely valid, and Allah rewards your sincerity. If you wish, you can recite the full Durood Sharif and dua after Salah, ensuring you don’t miss out on their blessings.

May Allah accept your prayers and grant you ease in your worship. Ameen

As-salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh, dear brother/sister.

First of all, I want to say may Allah bless you for your courage and sincerity in embracing Islam, and may He grant you strength and patience through these challenges. It is not easy to navigate such difficulties, but remember that Allah is always with you, and the trials you face will only bring you closer to Him if you persevere with faith and reliance on Him.

Challenges as a New Reverted Muslim:

1. Learning about Islam:

   • Seek Knowledge Gradually: Learning about Islam can be overwhelming, but it is important to take it step by step. Start with the basics, such as the Shahada, the five pillars of Islam, and the Salah (prayers). There are many online resources, Islamic books, and videos that explain things in simple terms.

   • Connect with a Supportive Community: Surround yourself with knowledgeable Muslims who can guide you, whether it’s through a local mosque or online forums. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice.

   • Pray for Allah’s Guidance: Always make dua (supplication) to Allah to make learning easy for you and to grant you understanding of His religion. Allah says:

     “And say: My Lord, increase me in knowledge.” (Surah Taha, 20:114)

   • Consistency in Prayer: Even if you’re new to performing Salah, it’s important to try to be consistent with your prayers. Start with what you can do, even if it’s just the Fard (obligatory prayers), and seek Allah’s help for consistency and understanding.

2. Facing Disownment by Parents:

   • Patience and Dua: It is incredibly painful when loved ones, especially parents, distance themselves from you, but know that Allah sees your pain. The Prophet ﷺ said:

     “Whoever is patient, Allah will make them patient. No one is granted a blessing better and more comprehensive than patience.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

   • Keep the Door Open: Even if your parents have distanced themselves, continue to show them respect and kindness. You may not be able to change their hearts now, but never lose hope. Allah is the One who can soften hearts, and He may guide them when the time is right.

   • Keep Making Dua: Ask Allah to open their hearts to Islam, and to guide them to understand your decision. Keep praying for them and don’t give up on them.

3. Honor Your Parents: Islam teaches that even if your parents do not approve of your faith, you must still treat them with kindness and respect. Allah says:

   “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him with hardship upon hardship, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Surah Luqman, 31:14)

   ******I understand that the financial challenges you’re facing, especially as a newly reverted Muslim and a student, can feel overwhelming. Please know that you are not alone in this struggle, and Allah (SWT) is always with you, guiding you through every difficulty. It is important to approach this crisis with faith, trust in Allah’s provision, and an active effort to improve your situation.

   1. Trust in Allah’s Provision (Tawakkul):

   In times of financial difficulty, one of the most powerful tools we have is tawakkul—placing our trust in Allah after doing everything we can. Allah has promised us that He will provide for us when we turn to Him with sincerity. He says in the Qur’an:

   “And whoever fears Allah… He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine.” (Surah At-Talaq, 65:2-3)

   This verse is a reminder that no matter how difficult things seem, Allah’s provision is beyond what we can fathom. Keep your trust in Him, knowing that He will provide for you in ways you may not yet see.

   2. Keep Striving and Seeking Halal Means:

   While placing your trust in Allah, it’s also important to take practical steps. As a student, consider the following options:

   • Part-Time Job/Internship: Look for part-time work that is suitable for your schedule as a student. Many universities offer student jobs, and some mosques or local Muslim organizations might offer opportunities as well. These jobs don’t need to be high-paying but can provide you with some income to help with your daily needs.

   • Freelancing/Online Work: If you have skills in writing, graphic design, tutoring, or any other field, you can look for freelance opportunities online. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow people to find paid work from the comfort of their own homes, and many of them are flexible with time.

   • Scholarships and Grants: Many Muslim organizations and universities offer scholarships or financial assistance to students in need. Research available scholarships or financial aid that may be accessible to you as a new Muslim student.

   3. Charity and Zakat:

   If you are facing financial hardship, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from the community. Allah has given us the beautiful concept of zakat (obligatory charity) and sadaqah (voluntary charity). Many mosques and Muslim organizations offer financial support to those in need, especially reverts who are facing challenges.

   It is important to note that if you are eligible to receive zakat (i.e., you are poor and in need), you have the right to ask for assistance, and it is a permissible act in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said:

   “The hand that gives is better than the hand that takes.” (Sahih Muslim)

   May Allah ease your difficulties, grant you patience, and provide you with the strength to face these challenges with steadfastness. May He open the hearts of your parents and provide for you from sources you could never imagine. Ameen.