As-salamu alaykum - A former believer wanting to come back to Islam
As-salamu alaykum. I was raised in a moderately religious, conservative Muslim family and at one time I practiced my faith. But I’ve always loved science. Over the years my studies and curiosity pushed me toward atheism/agnosticism, and I’ve been that way for about eight years. My current beliefs - or lack of them - are a big part of who I am now. Lately this has been weighing on me, especially since I live in a conservative Muslim country. I want to make my life easier and also give Islam a fair, honest look with an open heart. I’d like to try to return to the faith, but I don’t know how to begin. Early on my doubts were mostly about the natural world - how the Islamic account of creation sits alongside what we learn from the Big Bang and evolution. As I grew older, my questions became more philosophical: why would we need God at all, and why should anyone believe without clear evidence? I don’t want to offend anyone or disrespect their beliefs. I’m just looking for some guidance on where to start, what readings or steps might help someone sincerely re-examine Islam, and how to reconcile scientific knowledge with faith. Any practical advice or gentle recommendations would be appreciated.