Knowledge is an essential key to practicing Islam correctly, building a strong relationship with Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala, and increasing one's imaan overall. In fact, seeking Islamic knowledge is a duty upon the believers. Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim" (source). Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala has also encouraged us to seek knowledge in several verses of the Qur'an, such as Surah Al-Mujadila Ayah 11 (58:11), Surah Taha Ayah 114 (20:114), and Surah Al-Hajj Ayah 54 (22:54).

With all that being said, though, there is still a lot of incorrect information on Islam that is carelessly spread online/offline by non-Muslims AND Muslims. Thus, it's even more important today for people to be extra cautious of the way they learn about the deen, which is why I've created a list of different paths you can take to gain [correct] knowledge of Islam. Let's get into it.

To become a Muslim, one must declare the testimony of faith (the shahadah). You should accept it in your heart first, and then declare it out loud in front of witnesses. Although I have been told that you do not have to have witnesses to take your shahadah, I strongly recommend that you do, particularly at a masjid/mosque, for several reasons: 1) to make sure you say the shahadah correctly, 2) to have people to testify for you on the Day of Judgment, and 3) to be surrounded by fellow believers who will support you on this new journey, in-sha-Allah.

Once you've said your shahadah, your record is wiped clean (all your past sins are forgiven), and your new journey of living a meaningful life begins. So, what should you do next? Here are some options.

Religion is often depicted as a strict, fun-sucking belief system. Why? Because it has rules and restrictions that go against our desires. Despite what others think, there are plenty of fun (and halal) activities Muslims can engage in—this list contains 100+ of them 😏.