The Thought Process Behind Reversion to Islam; A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

The choice to embrace Islam, also known as reversion, is in few cases a matter of a single life-altering moment of realization. Instead, it can be better described as a complex process that is influenced by both one’s individual life path and the processes of cognition and socialization. This article explores the lives of those who have converted to Islam to discover aspects relating to the factors that lead up to the conversion. The motivation for conversion is determined from the case analysis and earlier research carried out in the course of the study. It covers how people come across Islam, whether it is as a result of finding themselves or going through a process of finding purpose or a realizing one’s purpose in life. It can then progress to cognitive exploration of the teachings of Islam. Some could be attracted to Islamic doctrine due to rationality in the religion’s tenets, as well as the system of moral values offered by the religion or the social unity the religion brings. Another important component that has an impact on the reversion process is the interactions with other people. Observing the Muslim communities and their practice, being involved in the inter-religion dialogue or perceiving acceptance by the Muslims around plays a role in this regard. Therefore, the study seeks to understand these different facets that define the Islamic conversion process thus: It draws not only the ‘’why’’ of conversion but also paints the ‘’how’’ of the diverse experiences that make a person embrace the faith of Islam.

Keywords: Reversion, Islam, Thoughts Processes, Faith, Social Interactions