How do people become Muslims?

Answer 1

First, one must be convinced that Islam is the truth. Otherwise, it is no use 'becoming' Muslim.

One takes a bath (or shower). Then one sits with a number of Muslim witnesses to declare the testimony of faith. this is done both in one's native language, as well as Arabic. At least, that is the common practice - eventhough as far as God (Allah) is concerned, one's own language is enough.

The testimony is this: "I testify (or, "I bear witness") that there is no one worthy of worship but the One God (Allah), and I testify (or "I bear witness") that Muhammad is the Messenger of God (Allah).

Sometimes the person who is administering the testimony of faith (called "the Shahaadah") wil say: "Muhammad is the Final Messenger of Allah" or "the Servant and Messenger of Allah".

If it is repeated in Arabic, then the transliteration of that Shahaadah is: "Ashadu Al-laa ilaaha il-Allah, WA ashdadu an-na Muhammadan Rasool Allah".

That's it. The person's past sins are forgiven and the new Muslim brother or sister is welcomed by the community.

Answer 2

Most Muslims were born in a Muslim family and raised as Muslims; all religions work this way. There are also some people who choose to become Muslims even though they were not raised as Muslims, and if people wish to become Muslims all they have to do is to learn about the religion and then practice it (which, again, is the same as conversion to any other religion).