In this article
Welcome to Islam. Becoming Muslim is the beginning of a beautiful journey, and it is natural to feel that there is a lot to learn. The good news is that you do not need to learn everything at once. This guide sets out the first steps for new Muslims and explains how learning Islam online with a patient teacher can make the journey easier.
Step 1: Understand the Shahadah
You became Muslim by saying the testimony of faith: “Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah” (I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). Take time to understand its meaning: worshipping Allah alone and following the guidance of His Messenger ﷺ. Our guide to learning Aqeedah explains the six pillars of faith.
Step 2: Learn purification and prayer
Prayer is the most important daily act of worship. Start with:
- Ghusl (full ritual bath), which new Muslims are encouraged to perform.
- Wudu, the washing before prayer.
- How to pray, step by step.
Begin with what you can. Many new Muslims learn the movements first and add the Arabic words gradually.
Step 3: Learn Al-Fatihah and short surahs
Surah Al-Fatihah is recited in every unit of prayer. Learning to read it correctly, even from a transliteration at first, is a wonderful early goal. Then add a few short surahs such as Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq and An-Nas. If you want to read the Quran in Arabic, the Noor Al-Bayan course starts from the alphabet.
Step 4: Get to know the Prophet ﷺ
Reading about the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ helps you understand why Muslims do what they do and gives you a role model for every part of life. Start with our overview of the key stages of the Seerah.
Step 5: Learn the basics of daily practice
- The five pillars of Islam.
- What is halal and haram in food and drink.
- Fasting in Ramadan.
- Islamic manners: greeting with salam, saying Bismillah and Alhamdulillah.
Tips for your first months
- Go step by step: Islam was revealed gradually, and you can learn it gradually too.
- Find a teacher you can ask: questions are a sign of sincerity, not weakness.
- Be careful with online information: not every website or video is reliable, and conflicting opinions can be confusing.
- Connect with your local mosque and with kind Muslims around you.
- Be patient with yourself: every small step counts with Allah.
Learning Islam online as a new Muslim
One-to-one online classes give new Muslims a safe, private space to learn at their own pace and ask anything. At Elbayan Academy, a certified teacher builds a personal plan for you: belief, purification and prayer, reading Al-Fatihah, and the basics of daily practice, as part of our Islamic studies programs. Classes are available around the clock, with WhatsApp support 24/7.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to learn Arabic to be a good Muslim?
No. You need enough Arabic for your prayers, which you can learn gradually. Learning more Arabic later helps you understand the Quran.
What should I learn first?
The meaning of the Shahadah, wudu and prayer, and Surah Al-Fatihah.
How do I start classes?
Book a free trial class. Classes cost $5 per 30 minutes. See our pricing page.
