Welcome to your new journey, and congratulations on your conversion to Islam. Learning and memorizing prayers in Arabic when it’s not your native language is a commendable effort, and it’s completely understandable that you might find the process challenging at first. Your dedication to wanting to pray correctly and understand what you’re reciting is truly admirable.

Firstly, it’s important to know that in Islam, efforts are greatly valued, especially when you are making sincere attempts to learn and grow in your faith. Your situation is not unique, and many converts face similar challenges. Here are some thoughts and advice that might help you along your journey:

1. Use Transliteration
Since you’re comfortable with English and find it challenging to read Arabic, consider using transliteration. For example, the phrase “Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim” can be written as it sounds in English. Look for reliable sources of transliterated prayers online or in Islamic literature, and compare them against audio recitations to ensure accuracy. Feel free to write these transliterations on flashcards and refer to them during your prayers.

2. Practice Through Repetition
Incorporate the verses and prayers you’re learning into your daily routine. Repeat them during your five daily prayers and in moments of downtime, such as while commuting. Repetition is key to memorization; don’t be discouraged if progress seems slow at first. The continuous effort will yield results over time.

3. Employ Creative Memorization Techniques
If traditional memorization methods don’t work for you, get creative. Associate the verses with unique images or scenarios that resonate with you personally. For instance, turning “ar-Rahman ar-Raheem” into a vivid, memorable image can help lock the words into your memory. Use whatever imaginative strategies work best for you.

4. Stay Committed and Be Patient
Recognize that learning and memorizing prayers is a long-term commitment. It may be challenging, but remember that your efforts are seen as an act of devotion in Islam. Allah appreciates your effort and struggles, and there is a greater reward for those who persevere despite difficulties. As stated in a hadith, those who recite the Qur’an with difficulty will be rewarded twice as much. This encouragement underscores the importance of patience and persistence.

Exact Hadith:

Narrated Aisha:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Such a person as recites the Qur’an and masters it by heart, will be with the noble righteous scribes (in Heaven). And such a person exerts himself to learn the Qur’an by heart, and recites it with great difficulty, will have a double reward.”

حَدَّثَنَا آدَمُ، حَدَّثَنَا شُعْبَةُ، حَدَّثَنَا قَتَادَةُ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ زُرَارَةَ بْنَ أَوْفَى، يُحَدِّثُ عَنْ سَعْدِ بْنِ هِشَامٍ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ “‏ مَثَلُ الَّذِي يَقْرَأُ الْقُرْآنَ وَهْوَ حَافِظٌ لَهُ مَعَ السَّفَرَةِ الْكِرَامِ الْبَرَرَةِ، وَمَثَلُ الَّذِي يَقْرَأُ الْقُرْآنَ وَهْوَ يَتَعَاهَدُهُ وَهْوَ عَلَيْهِ شَدِيدٌ، فَلَهُ أَجْرَانِ ‏”‏‏.‏

5. Can You Use Notes or Listen to Recitations During Prayer?
While learning, it’s acceptable to refer to your notes or flashcards during prayer to ensure you’re reciting correctly. As for listening to recitations through AirPods and repeating them during prayer, it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar or your local Imam. Practices can vary, and they can offer guidance tailored to your situation and what is permissible.

Lastly, it’s okay to seek help and support from the Muslim community or fellow converts. Everyone’s journey is unique, and sharing experiences can provide additional encouragement and advice. May Allah guide you and make this journey easy and fulfilling for you.