Is using Arabic when you dont understand it an innovation or a real part of the religion?

Question

As a convert this was my first serious question. I just convinced myself that Islam is closer to the straight path than Christianity which meant that a lot of people have added to the religion. After telling family I was Muslim I considered myself a Muslim (by definition), but I don't remember calling myself a "Muslim" (by name) at the time. Then to hear later that I must make some statement in Arabic that I don't understand before I become a Muslim seemed to me to be an innovation. The same with prayer in Arabic. Even an Islamic name :) which I never took. I don't think many people who grew up Muslim can appreciate this contrast very much, and most don't understand how important this is. Even many converts.What logic can allow a convert to faithfully with **peace of mind** practice a religion in a foreign language that he does not understand?Doing Salat in Arabic when I didn't understand the words felt more like I was worshiping other people by obeying them instead of worshiping God. Please understand this before answering or commenting or voting. I am not the first nor the last person to ask this, but there is no good answers for this on this site or other sites.

Answer 1

IF YOU BECAME A MUSLIM .

first difinition of islam is to be closer to allah ( god) by your hart and your good attention.

after that ervery hing will come step by step

Answer 2

Do it by heart, not by language.

Your Salat (prayers) does not necessary to be in Arabic, but Qura'an MUST BE read in Arabic in Salat or in other situations.

Pray normally, deeply from heart, using the Arabic surahs you know. Then start to learn Arabic to understand what you recite in your Salat.

Do (dua) in English, anytime, anywhere, and ask God to help you get closer to him and facilitate your learning. Allah is the all-hearing and the most knowledgeable.

Islam is a concentrated language, and Arabic needs efforts and practice. So do your best and Allah will help you.

I hope this helps. Happy to help with any other questions.

Assalamu alikum,

Mohamed A.