Converting religions is an act of radical change of the soul. This act has its downsides. It can even be dangerous and counter-national. Consider these factors before you decide to convert to another faith.
Converting religions involves a radical transformation for the soul
The study of religious conversion begins in psychology and focuses on the subjective experience of the individual. The Protestant tradition defines conversion as a gradual process involving self-examination and surrender, and the building of a personal relationship of faith with God. In Varieties of Religious Experience (1902), William James first described conversion. He defines conversion as the process of self-union. This transformation is when the individual becomes aware of their self-consciousness and aware of their existence.
The process of conversion is often depicted in a dramatic manner. Many Muslims became Christians during the Middle Ages. However, conversion was uncommon in the early modern period. Dramatically written accounts of apostasy within Islam are part of the study. They warn against renegadeism and celebrate rare Muslim baptisms. Because of a growing interest and knowledge in early modern culture, the focus of studies on conversions has shifted to the early modern period. The early modern study of conversion has expanded to include questions regarding space, environment, materiality and music. It also examines lives of converts.
Converting religions is dangerous and anti-national.
Converting religions is a dangerous and un-national act in the current context of right-wing populism. This is especially harmful to minority groups as they are often accused of having extraterritorial loyalty and being associated with a foreign religion. A nation's majority wants its minorities to remain on the fringe of national life. The real fear, however, is the awakening of these people to religious freedom.
Many fundamentalist groups view conversion as a part of a larger movement of 'de-nationalization'. Moreover, baptism tends to strengthen a communal interpretation of Christianity. Fundamentalist groups, as well the monied and wealthy classes, often oppose native tribes' conversion to Christianity.
Converting religions may result in inheritance rights
Converting from one religion to another can pose a problem, as it can impact inheritance rights. The Constitution does guarantee freedom of religion. However, this does not mean that anyone can change to another religion without having to follow any other laws. Some states, like Uttar Pradesh, prohibit conversion.
A Hindu convert to Islam can impact inheritance rights. A Hindu who dies without intestate and converts Islam may lose his right to inherit his father’s estate. He may be eligible to inherit the estate of his father if he converts from Christianity. The circumstances surrounding the conversion will determine whether this will impact inheritance rights.
The purpose of converting to a different religion may vary, but in general, people convert to a new religion for the purpose of marriage. These cases may mean that the spouse must convert to the same religion. However, this option comes at a cost. It reduces certain vested right, the most important being the ability to defer property to a loved one.