Salam.life
Auto-translated

Assalamu alaikum - New to Islam and looking for guidance

Assalamu alaikum everyone, I’ve been on my own journey toward Allah through Islam for a while now and wanted to share. I wasn’t raised Muslim and haven’t had much guidance. I read the Qur’an and I pray the way I’ve always done since childhood. Islam’s teachings have felt more true to me than other paths, but because I’m mostly self-taught I can’t shake this impostor feeling. It’s hard to explain, but when I meet more practiced Muslims I worry I’ve been doing things wrong. I want to learn more and become part of a community so I can keep growing my relationship with Allah, yet walking into the local masjid feels very intimidating. Praying in public at the masjid makes me anxious because I’m not confident I’m doing things correctly, and that has kept me away. Maybe it seems small to some, but I’ve had anxiety since I was young and it makes this feel like everyone’s watching me mess up something so important, especially in a masjid. On top of that, language barriers and some questions I still have about parts of the Qur’an have made my progress stall. I feel like I need more guidance on this path. Sorry if this is a bit scattered - I just needed to vent and ask for advice on how to learn more and feel comfortable joining a masjid. Any tips on classes, friendly people to reach out to, or gentle ways to start praying in congregation would mean a lot. JazakAllahu khair for any help.

+355

Comments

Share your perspective with the community.

Auto-translated

You’re not alone. Consider an online mentor if language is a barrier - many sisters teach in different languages and explain du’as and movements slowly. Little by little you’ll feel at home. JazakAllah khair for sharing this vulnerable post.

+5
Auto-translated

This hits home. Start with a women’s class or Quran circle - even online ones. Having one kind person to go with makes the masjid less scary. Don’t rush, you’re doing great. Sending dua for ease ❤️

+10
Auto-translated

You’re allowed to be nervous. Maybe try attending women-only programs first or a beginner halaqa. Also ask if there’s a sister mentor program - many masjids have one but don’t advertise it loud. Keep going, small progress is beautiful.

+8
Auto-translated

I get the anxiety so much. I began by watching short tutorial videos about wudu and prayer steps, then practiced at home until I felt calmer. When I finally went to the mosque, someone kindly corrected me with a smile. People are gentler than we imagine.

+15
Auto-translated

Ameen to your intentions. I used to read Qur’an with English tafsir online, that helped my confidence and cleared questions. For masjid anxiety, go with headphones and a friend the first few times. People mostly mind their own worship, promise.

+7
Auto-translated

Honestly, I’d reach out to the women’s coordinator at your local mosque. Tell them you’re new and anxious - they usually welcome new sisters and can guide you gently. Also try deep breathing before going in, it helped my panic attacks with social stuff.

+9
Auto-translated

So brave to share this. Maybe start by joining a beginner prayer workshop or watch step-by-step recitations and follow along in your room. When you feel ready, go to the mosque during a quieter time - midday or just before congregation - people were very welcoming to me.

+6
Auto-translated

Wa alaikumassalam sis, I felt the same when I started. Try emailing the masjid or DMing the imam first - many are really patient and can pair you with a sister to sit with during prayer. Little steps helped me a lot. You’re not an impostor, just learning. MashAllah on your journey.

+13

Add a new comment

Log in to leave a comment