Learning About Islam

Finding good resources that suit you in tone, perspective and content can take time.

Along the path to finding out about Islam, we can quickly become inundated with many books to read and videos to watch. New material in the English language is coming out every year, and the sheer quantity of resources now available is a reflection of the great depth of this tradition and also its growing presence in the Western world.

A general rule is to start with that which is most important to you at the moment, and what most relates to your learning needs.

The following recommended resources is not an exhaustive list, but reflects the resources that we currently refer and give to converts as references and guidance on their quest for knowledge.

Recommended resources

Motivation and direction are important as you delve into discovering about this rich faith, as the sheer scope and amount of material can be overwhelming and confusing.

A general introduction to Islam or an overview of Islamic history can help one find their bearings; from there, you may find particular areas you want to explore further. If you are interested in conversion, you will need to strengthen your understanding in the two testimonies of faith: belief in God and belief in the Prophet Muhammad.

For many of us coming from the west, we know little to nothing about the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) so reading a biography about him is a great place to start. As the biography follows a chronological order, it's usually easier to begin reading than the Qur'an.

After reading a biography of the Prophet (peace be upon him), you may then want to begin reading the Qur'an.

+ General Information about Islam