Q: I have no religious beliefs at this point but, I was raised as a Protestant Christian. I have begun to learn and study the Egyptian Arabic language and it has lead me to become interested in Islam. From the things I have read Islam is everything missing in my life. My problem, and my question has to do with my job. I work in a very fast paced career field (Police Officer) and this makes many things in Islam hard for me… things like salat, I may not always be able to offer salat at the appropriate time due to job duties that I must preform. Also some problems with hijab such as having pants above ankles, all pants must be uniform. Lastly I will not be able to grow a beard… this is another uniform requirement. Any advice that you could offer would very much appreciated.
Very respectfully,
Anthony
A: Fatwa Department
Respected Brother/Sister in Islam
As Salaamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakaatuh
Haamidaw wa Musalliyaa
Your query refers;
May God (Allah) guide you to the Truth and His eternal pleasure. If you are satisfied that is Islam is the true religion and path to success then you should accept Islam with immediate effect. Islam is the simplest and most practical religion to follow. The concerns that you have mentioned should not cause you to delay in this regard. You would then gradually learn the different teachings of Islam..
You may refer to the book, ‘ What Islam is’ by Moulana Manzoor Nu’mani (May Allah have mercy on him).
As far as Salaah is concerned, it does not take an extensive amount of time for one to offer one’s five daily prayers. There are specific times during which these prayers are to be performed and if one is unable to perform the prayer in congregation due to some difficulty, then it may be performed individually. Remember, that there are many millions of Muslims who engage in various works and occupations yet they are still able to perform the Salaah and benefit from its rewards. Islam is practical. Each Salaah only takes between 5-10 minutes to complete.
Matters such as your attire and clothing are secondary matters and could be overcome gradually once you start learning the beautiful teachings of Islam in more detail. You may acquire special concessions from the seniors at work, enabling you to practice upon the teachings of your religion which many people do acquire. If the authorities persist, you may repent and seek the forgiveness of Allah and wear such attire with a remorseful heart and with the firm resolve that once you are in a position to completely practice these then you would do so.
However when not at work or when performing salaah then wear the appropriate attire or fold the garments above the ankles. Focus and turn your attention to your Creator and beg of Him to assist you in this dilemma. Most definitely He is the controller of hearts and He will definitely take out a way for you from each and every difficulty. In the Holy Quraan, Surah Talaaq, Juz 28, Allah mentions, “The one who inculcates and adopts Taqwa (fear of Allah), then Allah will take out a way for him from (any and every) difficulty. And He will provide sustenance (income/wealth) for him from sources that he doesn’t even imagine.”
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Was Salaam
Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti)
Fatwa Dept.