Conversion to Islam

Bismihi ta'ala

Our Islamic method of praying can only be recited in the Arabic language, making sure pronunciation is as best as possible. 

If you are new to Islam, it is important to take gradual steps in familiarising yourself with the religion as much as possible, especially the doctrinal and moral aspects of the religion. As far as salah is concern, you must recite it in Arabic. You are able to read from a book, or follow a pra-along tutorial, or ask someone to assist you, until you memorise the blessed surahs and dhirks of prayer.

Of course, at the same time try to get to know the inner dimensions of prayer and also what the translation of what you are saying.  

With prayers for your success.

Bismihi ta'ala

Being an artist or a sculptor is indeed a very valuable and important skill. Islam encourages the arts, whether it be drawing, painting, or even making of sculpures of creative monuments or designs.

The only objection or problem is when making or having a carving of a living entity that has a soul, like a human being. And the case is that it is a carving of a complete living entity, meaning his/her/its entire body. 

Some jurists object even to parts of a body, like carving of a head. You would need to refer to your Marja' taqleed on these issues.

An important point is you are able to stay in your field, and it would be an encouraging thing for you to excel in your artwork. You only need to adjust it, and concentrate on areas that would allow you to pursue your skills and also adhere to your religion. Like, designing of ornaments, flowers, decorative motifs, and so on. 

As for your question of gifting your artwork away, yes you are allowed to do that.

And Allah knows best. 

Bismihi ta'ala

In Islam, circumcision is not obligatory, and it is considered as a Sunnah, strongly emphasised on, especially at a young age. For any male, whether Muslim by birth, or having converted to Islam, who has not undergone the process, they should consider doing it, as there are many religious and physical benefits for it. 

However, if a man wishes to perform his Hajj pilgrimage, one of the obligatory prerequisites is that he must be circumcised in order for his pilgrimage to be valid. 

And Allah knows best.  

Bismihi ta'ala

There must have been many things you had to deal with when you first converted to Islam. This is very common, and you should take things on a normal pace so you familiarise yourself with the precepts of this new religion you have adopted. 

As for praying, there could have been alternative options, where you could have avoided upsetting your parents, and also observe your daily prayers. Like, praying in closed off area, or bedroom, etc. 

What you can do in your free time and gradually pray these days, as qadha`, or as re-doing that which was obligatory for you which you missed out on. See it as a blessing, as when we pray, although more than our daily routine, that is indeed an honourable blessing from the Almighty, as there is nothing better than worshipping Him. 

With prayers for your success. 

Bismihi ta'ala

It's greatly noble that they are very good people, and for sure their nurturing contributed to your personality as well. 

As you know, religion and becoming religious is a choice that must come from within. Even as Muslims, we always pray to Almighty God to keep us "guided" on the right path. Hidayah, or guidance is in the hands of the Almighty.  If your grandparents, or anyone else around you has a potential that Allah ta'ala sees in them, then they will be guided to the light of Iman. If they do not "convert" to Islam, it does not mean they are evil, but just that hidayah is with the Almighty. 

The best thing you can do is set yourself with high standards in your conduct, in your ambitions in life, and show those around you how a true Muslim should be. 

That itself is a great form of conveying the message of Islam, and then it is up to them to investigate, or ask questions, and so on. 

If you see that your grandparents are interested, or have questions, discuss what you know with them. However, never allow it to become an argument, or upset them, as they are your grandparents. 

In any case, always do dua for yourself, your parents, your grandparents, your siblings and everyone else, that God showers them with His compassion and Mercy. Ask the Almighty to enlighten your hearts, and ask Him for guidance. 

You can also do tawassul to Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), to give you the strength you need, and introduce them to Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), in a positive manner. You dont know what the outcome will be, but at least they will think positive of your religion, and understand you more. 

With prayers for your success.

Bismihi ta'ala

If one was to convert Islam there is no obligatory ghusl for them to perform. The only mandatory act is to recite the Shahadatayn.  

And Allah knows best.