Converting to Islam

I hope no one is offended by this, because that is not my intention, I just seek guidance.

I am very interested in Islam, though a bit confused by it all. I do have a few problems though...  I converted would I have to cover my head? I live in Scotland and in all honesty do not think I could cope with this in day to day life, though I am happy to dress in a conseravtive and respectful manner,I do anyway.

I also have a 16 year old son who has told me he would not convert and I feel I have to allow him his own path, he has to make his own decisions and not be forced into it by me. THis would mean that we would have Eid celebrations and Christmas celebrations..for example. Is this so wrong?

Hi Chris,

With both concerns that you are bringing up, you will get various points of views, even from scholars. Some feel to wear hijab is an obligation, while others can show 'facts' to show why it's not. You will also run into different opinions concerning celebrating non-muslim holidays ( which brings back memories of the christmas disscussion that took place in the IC forum-- that was a intense discussion if anyone remember).

The matter of both subjects are on a complex level. Because I'm not a scholar I feel as if I don't qualify to say what is wrong or right. I have personal views on both subjects, but my views supports me well, while they may not be suitable for another individual.

Chris have you done any studying or reasearch on both matters? What are YOUR views on the subject so far. From your studying do you feel as if wearing Hijab is a obligation or not a obligation? Or are you unsure?

Do YOU think it's ok to celebrate non-muslim holidays when you become a muslim? Or are you unsure?

What information from the Quran and hadiths, are you reading to help you make your decision?

Maybe you can share the information you gathered so far on both subjects and the members of the forum can help you understand certain verses, or information you gain from reliable sources.

In the end I hope the final decision you make will bring postive results to your life.

oh, I do agree with minuteman , as far as you not oppressing your son, and vice versa. He is a adult now, just like you.

Hi Chris,

I hope you have read my PM?

One thing I try to understand about the hijab, is that the Arab women of the time of the Prophet(pbuH)  already covered their hair when going outdoors. The wives of the Prophet(pbuH) felt uncomfortable unveiled, when callers visited. So the prophet suggested they covered themselves indoors as well.

There will always be varying answers on the hijab, the burka and so forth. Many women, as part of their culture, wear the hijab, and accept it as an essential part of Islam too.

In time, you will decide which is best for you. But the most important aspect of Islam is that you first believe in it. All other things will come to you in time, with study and prayer to Allah/God. Allah will guide you and inform the heart of all truths.

Firstly, thank you to you all. You all make me feel that I have a family out there that really cares about me and my son.

Thanks minuteman. My son is so important to me, as is my very special Muslim friend. My Muslim friend has already said if it all works out and he is with us then we will have both Christian and Muslim celebrations. We both feel it is important that my son is not left out and life for him with us should be one of caring and love no matter what religion we follow. Hope that is Ok.

If I do fully embrace Islam I will probably have difficulty telling everyone, especially my parents, though I have discussed it with my son.

Thanks too to Laylee, you ask some very pertinant questions. I am unsure if the Hijab is an obligation, I am even more confused when I see Egyptian girls wearing the Hijab, but have very tight trousers on and look really pretty and the guys think it is ok cos she wears a Hijab, sorry it just does not seem to fit.

For me because I am a Christian and have a 16 year old who says he does not want to convert to Islam I think it is OK to celebrate both Muslim and non Muslim holidays, but that is because I want to keep my relationship with my son and my family if I become a Muslim, but then I know family is important to the Islam faith.

I really could do with help about Hadiths and the Quaran. I am reading the Quaran, in English, and to me it is so much like the Old Testament, it also repeats itself so much, sorry no offence meant. I seem to keep hearing from the Quaran about life after death and living a good life in this world and that I agree with, but where all the living rules come from is beyond me at the moment(sorry that sounds so offensive, don't mean to be)

Thanks to to Hayfa. Your advice of take it slowly is a good one. I have told my Muslim friend that he has had all his llife to learn and I am tying to learn masses in a very short space of time. I want to know, but it seems thare are so many Muslims out there that ask how to live on every corner of their thoughts. This is just an example but I read that a female may not greet her husband with a hug and a kiss until he greeted her first.. it's this sort of thing that makes me think I cannot be myself, I would naturally want to give my husband a kiss and a hug, why is this so wrong. I think men no matter what religion, need to feel loved and cared for and should not expect to have to make the move first all the time.

Sorry folks I may have well stepped over the boundaries of respect here, but I need to ask, please do not feel offended. If you do, please tell me where I have gone worng and how to put it right.

Greetings and thanks to you all.

Chris.