Finding your community.
Faith grows best with others. A good community gives you teachers, friends, support in hard times, and people to pray and celebrate with. Today you'll learn how to find and join a community, and how to handle challenges with family and friends.
Where to find community
| Place | What you'll find |
|---|---|
| Local mosques and imambargahs | Congregational prayers, Friday prayers, majalis, classes |
| Ashurkhanas | Especially during Muharram, gatherings of remembrance |
| Islamic centres and study circles | Classes for adults, often in English and Urdu |
| Youth groups | Events, volunteering, friendship with people your age |
| Online | Reliable scholars' lectures, our Shia Circle community, the AI Scholar for questions (always verify) |
Choosing a good teacher
If your family isn't Muslim or Shia
- Be kind and respectful. The Qur'an commands good treatment of parents even if they aren't Muslim (31:14–15), while not obeying them in what Allah forbids.
- Explain gently, and let your good character speak.
- Avoid arguments; give time. Many families come to respect a change they see making someone more honest, patient and caring.
- Find support from your community and a teacher if things are hard.
- If you are ever unsafe, reach out to trusted people and local support services.
In rare situations where someone faces real danger, Shia teachings allow protecting oneself. In normal circumstances, live your faith openly and peacefully, with wisdom and good manners.
Keep learning
- Attend one class or majlis a week.
- Read a page of the Qur'an with translation daily.
- Learn one dua a month (see our Duas page): start with Dua Kumayl on Thursday nights.
- Use our Quiz to test your knowledge of the Ahlulbayt (a).
Your parents are upset about your new faith. What's the best approach?
The Qur'an commands kindness to parents. Character is the best explanation.
What's a sign of a good teacher?
Knowledge, character and gentleness.
Your task (this week)
Find one place near you (a mosque, imambargah or study circle) or a trusted online class, and attend once. Introduce yourself to one person there. Post in Shia Circle c/General if you'd like help finding a place in Hyderabad.
Lesson 11 complete!
You know where to find community, how to choose good teachers, how to handle family situations with kindness, and how to keep learning. Next: questions new Shias often ask.
Next: Questions new Shias often ask →