Why We Became Muslims - Master - Vol 3 - 101 To 150

Preface:
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
I bear witness that there is no deity worth worship except Allah (The True God and
Creator and Sustainer of this Universe) and I bear Witness that Mohammad is His Servant
and Messenger, Afterwards,
In 1930, Dr. Sir Mohd. IQBAL, the well known Urdu and Persian poet and Islamic Philosopher,
expressed the need of publishing a book, in which the stories of all those who had converted to
Islam in India be recorded. He said that it would give a new boost to the cause of Islamic
propagation.
He was asked, if there are not already books that express the logic and truth of Islam and are they
insufficient, the noted scholar said:
“Yes they are more than sufficient, but you would get so many new points from such a book that
you will be amazed. I think there are different ways to impress the heart and mind. Many times
brain rejects the most potent of the arguments, but the hearts gets impressed by a very small
incident or some very small point and grads the mind also.
Conversion to Islam is al related to brain as it is to the heart. A muslim missionary must know
what are the darts that affect heart. There are so many tales of unbelievers coming to Islam thru
out the history. We see a person standing firm on his religion for many decades, yet a small
point and a small acts of kindness, sweeps him away from his feet and he makes the most
momentous decision of his life.
You have many logical arguments to prove the truth of Islam, but if you go to a new Muslim
and ask him, what impressed him about Islam and what were the points which impressed him. If
you have in book form, stories of a large number of such people, it would be a very powerful
tool in the hands of Muslim missionaries. Many new arguments of truth of Islam will come out,
which might not be available in the vast Islamic literature we have”
So many books have been written for past few decades on the true stories of new converts of
Islam. I have compiled about 250 of them and abridged them to be between 6000-8000 words
for ease or reading and to be posted in many shared channels on Internet and distribution thru e-
mails etc.
People might agree or disagree with some of points mentioned here. But these are personal
experiences and personal reasons of these people who accepted Islam of their own free will.
Some of them suffered much about this new faith. What kept them firm to their faith varies from
one person to another person.
I pray to Allah to accept this effort and make it useful for those who read it and share it with
other people.
M.U. Qidwai
Jubail, Saudi Arabia
PS: This is volume 3 of a five part series, having stories from Serial 101 to serial 150. The
full series has already been published in tabular form on this site earlier
Story # 101
Why I Became Muslim?
BAHRIA AMANULLAH, USA
Allah in His infinite mercy and wisdom created me to be a Muslim of eastern Europe descent
living in the US. It might seem strange for a white girl from a small Midwestern town to be
Muslim. The toe seem world’s apart. Unfortunately Islam is the most misunderstood religion.
Muslims are unjustly associated with terrorism, radicalism and senseless violence.
As a Roman Catholic, I was baptized, took my first communion, performed my first confession,
attended mass and catechism classes. Early in life I wondered why there were different religions,
I had questions no one could answer…I did not understand Jesus, was he a man or God?
One summer evening, just before turning fourteen , I climbed on top of the roof of our house, I
marveled at the glorious beauty of an animated moon. I wondered how any one could look at
such a sight and nor believe in God…
At 17 I moved on my own into the city, for several years my life was a nightmare of instability,
directionless searching and un-fulfillment.
Finally I read the autobiography of Malcolm X, in his life I found the direction I had so
desperately searched for. I had caught a serious glimpse of the straight path. By the mercy of
Allah it was now in my heart. Malcolm’s letters written from Makkah touched me deeply.
The only reason I did not embrace Islam was the interference of my own choice views and
adherence to misconceptions of women’s status in Islam. It seemed like a plunge into darkness. I
thought it was too strict for me and my arrogantly self righteous liberal views.
I came into contact with the Islamic community thru a Radio station called KUCB. I listened to
several Muslim personalities on air and became deeply impressed by their strength, courage,
commitment and knowledge. I went to station to offer my services…there I met Imam Ako
Abdul Samad, the station’s vice president. He selflessly gave time, advice encouragement and
offered a clear direction.
At last I started asking questions and Imam answered them….my confusion regarding Jesus was
now made clear. He was not son of God, God is far above the base reality of human
reproduction. Jesus was a prophet a messenger of God. The miracles were performed by God
thru him.
Now I understood my own inner self regarding abortion. Like many young women, I had been
misled into thinking anti abortion stands were a threat to my rights as a women. Islam put all
elements in the proper perspective. The issue is much greater than Roe Vs Wade…
My life was forever changed by the simple truth of submission to one Creator. Simple truths are
the most powerful. It was all practical. There is only one God. The truth can cut thru the façade
of intellectual unreasoning, selfishly motivated denials and lies that I had clinged to….
Islam is not a terrorist society, but a broad community striving for peace, justice and human
rights for all in the name of Allah.
(Abridged) Source:: Riyadh Daily Nov 6 1998 p8

Story # 102
Reverting to Islam: A Journey back to God
by Maryam al-Mahdayah (USA/Egypt)
http://www.thetruereligion.com/maryamegypt.htm
My name is Maryam al-Mahdayah - I was not born with this name, but chose it when I
converted to Islam (in 1992). My Christian birth name is Maria (Mary in English, Maryam in
Arabic). I would like to share with you my personal story of converting to Islam, with the hope
that this story might bring with it a better understanding of Islam.
My story is organized into different life-periods:
Growing up Christian (early years) ..Turning away (teen years) ..Searching for Truth (the
twenties) ..The Opening (the thirties) ..Coming Home (the forties and forever)
GROWING UP CHRISTIAN -- EARLY YEARS
I was raised in the Catholic tradition. I went to Catholic elementary school, learned my
Catechism, received my First Communion, received my Catholic name (after a saint), went to
confession, all the important steps to growing up Catholic. I tried my best to be good, and I was
(I was too afraid of some terrible retribution from God if I wasn't) and throughout these years I
developed a substantial feeling of guilt (for what, I wasn't sure, but I knew I was guilty of
something). The nuns who taught me seemed harsh, and I couldn't understand why these 'brides
of Christ' were so tense and angry. …
TURNING AWAY -- TEEN YEARS
I didn't have an easy childhood, and the family problems grew in severity to the point where one
day, I came to the conclusion that there is no God (or, at the very least, if there was a God, He
wasn't there for me). I remember that day, laying in my bed at night, waking up to that reality. I
suddenly felt a great vacuum within myself, but, I told myself, if that's reality, then I have to
accept it. At my level of understanding, that was my reality. As my teen years progressed, I
started searching. By this time, I was no longer required to go to church …
SEARCHING FOR TRUTH – TWENTIES
As I entered my twenties, I felt a tremendous need to find the truth, to still the restlessness in my
heart and soul. I was introduced to Buddhism, and since it seemed to come close to what I was
looking for (at least there was a clear logic to it), I joined. In many ways it did help me feel
better, but to me it seemed to be missing something (what, I didn't know at that time). Over the
years, I drifted away from Buddhism as well. It was becoming more of a burden than a comfort
in my life. During this time I traveled to Egypt for business, where I met my husband, who was
raised in the Muslim tradition. Still involved in Buddhism, I tried to convert him. He patiently
listened, and I believed I was succeeding, but I know now that he would never have converted.
THE OPENING -- THIRTIES
So I continued, became more uncomfortable with Buddhist practice, went back to Egypt to get
married, came back to the USA alone and eventually returned to Egypt to live with my husband.
We were there together for a year, a wondrous, healing and unforgettable year. By now I was in
my early thirties. I had just arrived in Egypt to really start married life, stressed out to my limit,
feeling very much that I had arrived with my last breath. ..
My husband asked a friend to bring me some books about Islam. I was surprised he would do so,
because I was still "not interested in hearing about God" - sometimes emphatically so. So he left
me with the books: an English translation of the Qur'an, a book about all facets of Islam and a
book from the Sufi perspective. My interest was slightly piqued, but I dismissed it. I put the
books aside, and later went to bed.
COMING HOME -- FORTIES AND FOREVER
I read about the principles of Islam. They made sense to me, with no contradiction. The
descriptions of the Islamic way of life, the roles of men and women in society as complimentary
rather than competitive were so logical. After reading this I understood that what I felt
instinctively about myself as a woman was, in fact, true to my real nature. Rather than feeling
demeaned, I felt uplifted, not only as a woman, but as a member of the human race. I started to
feel my true self, for the first time in my life. I began to have the sense that I was coming home. I
read the Qur'an. Although not in the Arabic original, I found that just reading the verses in
English filled me with a tremendous sense of peace and quiet, in a most gentle way. The verses
themselves answered many questions I had throughout my life, but could never get a clear
answer to. Reading the Qur'an, I began to realize that this book must be the work and the word of
God, because of its impeccable logic and its effect on me. I learned that this is one of the
qualities of the Qur'an, a certain "barakah" or grace that has a very calming effect on the human
soul…
We moved to the USA and our daughter was born in the autumn, 4 months after our arrival. The
following year we went back to Egypt so my husband's family could meet this wonderful
addition to our family. Before we left, I decided it was time to officially become Muslim - God
had shown me so many signs, that I knew this was the clear path for me. And so, back in Egypt, I
went to Al-Azhar to declare, "There is no God but God, and Muhammad is his Messenger." Now
I'm in my forties and looking back through my life, particularly the last 10 years, (Abridged)
Maryam
Story # 103
Why We Became Muslims:
(Stories of New Entrants to Islam, thru Missionary Activities of MAULANA KALIM UDDIN of Village
PHULAT, MUZAFFARNAGAR, India)
Note: These are stories from India, the local color is predominant, some points may seem strange to those
who are not familiar with Indian social life.
The Case of: ITER PAL SINGH (MOHD. NAEEM) BAHRAICH UP INDIA
A. Family Background:
01.I was born in a Rajput Family in BHARAICH UP about 50 years ago. My father was head
Master in the Govt. School. I did my Intermediate from my city then I did Engineering Degree
in Civil Engineering from JAMIA MILLIA Delhi.
I got a job with DDA. But as my father had told me that taking bribe in the worst thing in this
life and due to my hot temper, I soon resigned from DDA and opened my own construction
Company in partnership with some people.
02. Soon we started getting big orders. We took the construction of a shopping mall in Delhi and
expected a big profit, but as happens, our partners started having their own interests and the
company went into loss. Not only that our creditors sued us. I had to sell every real state I had in
my name, but it was not enough and I was dragged into courts for a number of cases.
I had to sell my car and I bought a used old car and was at my wits end as to how to come out of
this mess.
B. How and Why I accepted Islam:
03. While I was in that state, I was going in my car, when I saw a gentleman walking the street.
He seemed a respectable fellow, so I offered him lift…after some hesitation he sat in my car. I
did not know that he was Maulana Kalim Sahib.
He asked how I was and I told him about my difficulties and the harassment from court cases. He
told me to recite daily after my regular bath, YA HADI, YA RAHIM at least 100 times. He told
these are the names of Creator of Universe.
04. Next day, I did as he told me, and I got a lot of peace of mind. I wanted to recite more but I
did as I was told….after a few days, one court case came in my favor and I was to get 500,000
Rupees in one month. I was very happy as it enabled me to pay most of my creditors.
I went many times in that direction to meet that gentleman once more….after many tries, some
one in Green Park told me to go to OKHLA and meet Maulana Kalim Sahib.
05. When I reached there, I was told that he has gone to Madras and will return after one week.
There was a book shop selling Islamic books. I purchased two books in Hindi “Recommended
supplications” and “Supplications of Prophet” and “What is Islam” …and “Your trust…”
06. When I read those books, my eyes were opened. I became very anxious to meet Maulana
Kalim and when I met him , I was overjoyed to see that he was the same gentleman who had
recommended me that supplication.
I accepted Islam at his hands and then he put some on to teach me Quran and Islamic prayers
07. After that I won three more case and I purchased a new house and called back my family and
our life came back on track, Alhamdolillah.
C: What was reaction of spouse , parents, family and society:
08. My family was very religious and they were biased against Islam. One of our family
member who was a DIG in Police had accepted Islam some times back that had increased their
hatred of Islam.
In my old days , I had contributed to militants and extremist Hindu organizations. Now I had a
totally different opinions about Islam and Muslim and I decided to do expiations for all that.
E. My Missionary activities:
1. On Spouse / Children
09. When I told my wife my experience about Islam and how it had changed my
condition….there was but little hesitation from her to accept Islam.
My two daughters and my son also became Muslim. Maulana named my wife as Khadija. My
daughters as Amina and Fatima and my son as Mohd. Omar.
F. Present Situation:
10. I have decided to buy a house and dedicate it for Muslim missionary activities and help
newly converted Muslims. I want to do for Islam at least what I did against it in my old days.
G. My advice to Muslims / Non Muslims.
11. To Muslims I want to say that whole world is thirsty about Islam. It is their duty to quench
their thirst.
And we should be persistent and should not reply evil with evil but with kind words and
patience.
(Translated from Vernacular Urdu and abridged)
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of Feb. 2009

Story # 104
Why be became Muslims?
MUHAMMAD ALEXANDER RUSSEL WEBB USA
(Muhammad Alexander Russel Webb was born in 1262 [1846 C.E.], in Hudson, United
States of America. He studied in the university of New York. In a short time he was a very
much loved and admired writer and columnist.
He published magazines named ‘St. Joseph Gazette’ and ‘Missouri Republican’. In 1887 he
was posted as the American consul in the Philippines. After embracing Islam, he
thoroughly dedicated himself to the promulgation of
Islam and presided over the organization in the United States. He passed away in 1335
[1916 C.E.].)
I was asked by quite a number of people why I, as a person who was born in the United States, a
country with an overwhelmingly numerous Christian population, and who
listened to the preaches, or, rather, foolish talks, made by Christian priests throughout his
growing years, changed my religion and became a Muslim. The brief account I gave them on
why I had chosen Islam as my guide in life:
I became a Muslim because the studies and observations I carried on indicated that men’s
spiritual needs could be filled only with the sound principles established by Islam.
Even as a child I had never had a disposition to completely dedicate myself to Christianity. By
the time I reached the adult age of twenty, I was completely defiant towards the mystical and
annoying church culture which interdicted everything in the name of sin.
Gradually I disengaged myself from the church, and finally abandoned it for good. I had an
inquisitive and curious character. I would always search for causes and purposes for everything. I
would anticipate logical explanations for them.
On the other hand, the explanations provided by priests and other Christian men of religion did
not satisfy me. Most of the time, instead of giving satisfactory answers to my questions, they
would dismiss the matter with evasive prevarications such as, “We cannot understand these
things. They are divine secrets,” and “They are beyond the grasp of human mind.”
Upon this I decided to study, on the one hand, oriental religions, and on the other hand, books
written by famous philosophers. I read
various works on philosophy, such as those written by Mill, by Locke, by Kant, by Hegel, by
Fichte, by Huxley, and others.
The books written by these philosophers always dealt with such subjects as protoplasms, atoms,
molecules, and particles, and did not even touch on reflections such as “What becomes of the
human soul?” “Where does the soul go after death?” “How should we discipline our souls in this
world?”
The Islamic religion, on the other hand, treated the human subject not only within the corporeal
areas, but also along the spiritual extensions.
Therefore, I chose Islam not because I had lost my way, or only because Christianity had
incurred my displeasure, or as a result of sudden decision, but, on the contrary, after very
minutely studying it and becoming thoroughly convinced about its greatness, singularity,
solemnity and perfection.
Islam is based on belief in the existence and the unity of God, entire submission to Him, which
spontaneously entails worshipping Him and thanking Him for His blessings. Islam enjoins
fraternity, goodness, and friendliness upon all the human race, and advises them to be leanly,
spiritually, physically, verbally, and practically. Definitely, the Islamic conclusive of all the
religions known to humanity so far.
Story # 105
MRS. ARCHANA AMIT (MOMINA TABASSUM), LUCKNOW INDIA.
It happened on 29 Nov. 2003. I was on a bus going from Kanpur to Lucknow. In hurry, I did
not keep enough money in my purse. I had my little daughter in my lap. When the conductor
came and asked for money, it fell short by 6 Rupees. I was at loss to say anything. The
conductor was shouting at me to pay up or get down immediately. Every one else was silent and
watching me intently. Suddenly a gentleman from the front seat asked the conductor, what was
reason for all this shouting, he produced a 10 Rupee note and gave a it to conductor to settle the
amount.
When the bust stopped at Lucknow, I proceeded to thank the gentleman, he was of the age of my
father, he consoled me and said that these things do happen and then he even paid me for Cycle
Rickshaw fare to reach to my home (which I intended to walk initially). When I reached home, I
told my Husband AMIT, what transpired in the bus. He asked me why I had not taken the name
or Tel. number of the gentleman, so we could repay him and express our gratitude.
I was always on the lookout, whenever I went to market, so as to see the gentleman somewhere.
One day I found him out and pointed to my husband. We met him and expressed our thanks for
his kind acts…
When I asked him to accept the money which he spent on me, he initially refused, but accepted
on our insistence on the condition that we must visit him at the earliest. We went to his house
and for the first time I felt that I had come to my brother’s house (I had no real brother or sister).
His wife welcomed me and we had lots of talk and a wonderful meal. When we parted, his wife
gave me a packet to be opened after reaching our home. It contained a dress from me and one for
my daughter too,
Well after that AMIT was always looking forward to meet him…whenever he returned he would
relate to me some act of kindness which the gentle man or his wife did to poor (irrespective of
his being Muslim or Non Muslim.
A strange change was coming on us. We removed all the photos and Idols from our house and
stopped going to temples altogether. AMIT was getting some books from the gentleman which
both of us were reading with interest.
Finally one day, we asked him, how long will we continue like that? He asked us to wait for
some more time. What if our time of death came? Asked AMIT and the gentleman became very
quite.
So after four months, we were transferred from Lucknow to Ghaziabad and we decided to start a
new life in a new city. We became Muslim, I took the name, AMINA TABASSUM, AMIT
became ABDUL KARIM & our daughter SAMTA AZIM.
We still have very good relationship with the gentleman (who was indeed a Doctor from
Azamgarh) and we visit each other and exchange gifts.
Some times I think…what would have happened to me if I had enough money to pay for my
ticket on that fateful Nov month of 2003? Was it coincidence or was Allah making provisions
for me? (abridged)
Story # 106
Why I became Muslim?
ABDUL RASHID (FORMERLY NATION OF ISLAM), USA
I was born in a Christian family and was very obedient to my parents. However in 1973, thru the
Nation of Islam of Elijah Mohammad. That was based on racism and later when Malcom X
introduced true teachings of Islam, we became true Muslims.
We joined the group led by son of Elijah Mohammad, W Deen Mohammad which is different
from Nation of Islam of Luis Farrakhan.
I did my undergraduate in Anthropology from NY and joined San Diego University for further
studies. There I met my future wife Saleema, who was Lutheran and later became Muslim.
I then joined US army and was posted as Muslim Imam to lead Muslim soldiers in prayers and
for religious education. This gave me ample opportunity to engage in social works, which suited
me best. I am happy to repost that we are going to built a new mosque in Fort Brigg Cant.
Which will have a capacity to accommodate upto 300 worshippers. I [raise Allah that He got
that work done thru me. (abridged)
Story # 107
Life is good for Muslim women By Maureen McCormick (Canada)
When I was a non-Muslim, I, too, believed that Islam was misogynistic, male-dominated and
backwards. Imagine my surprise after I read the Qur'an and learned Islam is diametrically
opposed to misogyny and male dominance, and, in fact, is a very progressive and gentle faith
which protects women.
I have seen a lot of controversy over the last few weeks about the application of Sharia law to
resolving family disputes between willing individuals in Canada. The subject has led to a
discussion of the status of women in Islam.
As a Canadian Caucasian woman who recently accepted the Islamic faith, I would like to share
my thoughts.
There is good and bad everywhere and it is important to stress that not every Muslim follows
true Sharia. Humans are not infallible.
First and foremost, Islam gives a woman more legal rights than she is afforded using Canadian
law -- the right to keep all of her property, even in a divorce; the right to keep her own money;
even the right to be sexually satisfied, among many other things. Non-Muslim women don't have
those rights; they are just expected to suck it up.
The concept of a dowry might seem odd in Canada, but it has its merits. Many divorced women
in Canada live below the poverty line because their ex-husbands are unwilling to support them.
They pay the least amount of alimony possible and transfer their assets to their new wives so that
the ex-wife gets nothing.
There are not many divorced women who live at the same standard they had while married
unless they are professional women. To me, a dowry is like an insurance policy -- the just-in-
case part of marriage.
Islam gives women more respect than any other faith. My experiences have shown me (for the
most part) that Muslim men really respect women and like them for who they are. In my opinion,
nothing is sexier than a woman who is covered up. No woman with any amount of self-respect
would walk around looking like she is soliciting sex. Too many people have no respect for each
other at all. It's very sad to see.
Refraining from sex before marriage affords the woman the right to know a man first and give
the man her mind, heart and soul before she decides to give her body (which is completely
backwards to the thinking here, where a woman has to "put out" in order to get another date).
The woman is never compromised or coerced in any way in Islam. She is always in control of
her body and is always provided a safe environment. What a concept.
Women are protected in Islam. Men are responsible for the safety, protection, financial
support and well-being of their wives and families. Perhaps an old-fashioned concept, but it
works. Real women want to be with real men. Moreover, Islam allows for women to be
emancipated and independent.
Islam is easy and fair for both sexes. It is a faith between an individual and God. In its story
about Adam and Eve, Islam did not mention that Eve encouraged Adam to eat the forbidden
fruit. The original sin concept led to the downgrading of women in the early Christian culture.
Islam actually treats love-making with ease and Muslims expect to be rewarded for making love
to their lawful spouses.
Muslim women can do anything that any other woman in the world can do, cultural limitations
notwithstanding. The only difference is good Muslim women still have their honour and respect
their husbands.
Generally speaking, my experience has been that Muslim women have more self-respect and
confidence than non-Muslim women because Muslim women know what really counts.
Story # 108
The Case of: RAJAN (MOHD. RIZWAN) BENARAS , UP, INDIA
01. I was born on 3rd Jan 1959 in BENARAS , UP in a Hindu Brahmin family. My father was a
graduate and retired as NAIB TAHSILDAR. He was a very honest person, that is why he had to
face lot of difficulties in his service life.
02. I did my college education and then did B. Com and started my own business of garments.
After changing many trades I went to Goa and was engaged in clothes business. This time it was
successful. I was married in a Good family of Allahabad. My wife is a Post Graduate. We have
three children, one son and two daughters and we are well set in Goa.
03. I think that it was mercy from Allah , who picked me from gutter and chose me to be a
Muslim. It so happened that I lost a lost of money in my business. I decided to do trading and
was going to Ludhiana to find suitable avenues.
Our family was an orthodox Hindu family and we used to worship many gods and we had idols
of many gods in our house. I used to think , how these lifeless idols can help us and do they even
hear our prayers. I thought that my present misfortunes are due to ill effects of these idols, so
before I started my journey for new business, I removed all these idols and pictures from my
house and drowned them into a river.
04. I reached Delhi and I got to know many good opening. I boarded the train from Delhi to
Ludhiana. A very good smell was coming from my seat and when I opened the birth of my 3 tier
seat, I saw a small booklet Titled “Your trust, returned to you” in the small pocket.
It was a small booklet in Hindi, I read it once, twice and thrice. I think that I had already
accepted the First part of Islamic creed “There is no deity except Allah” and the book “guided
me to the second part “And Mohammad is His messenger”
05. I was very eager to know and meet the author of booklet. I tried to ask many about him
during journey…. But I could not know much. When I returned to my place , I went to a
Mosque and asked scholars there about my intention.
They knew Maulana Kalim Sahib, very well, they gave me his address. I learned Quran and
regular prayers and many things needed for our Islamic life.
06. I reached PHULAT and met Maulana and reminded him as to how his book had reached me.
He said that he had placed that book in the compartment and remembered only after he had left
the train.
I called my Father in Law to our place in Goa and told him about our conversion to islam.
07. He is a man with a very cool temper. He said that religion is our personal affair , but we
should take that decision after thinking all implications. I gave him some books on Islam and he
said that he will read them. We are very hopeful that he will become Muslim, Inshallah.
08. I told my wife about what happened to me and how this small booklet changed me. I gave
her the book, she said, she will read it.
I said it is best, is she read it from me. I read to her that book slowly and with lot of love and
sincerity. I told her that now I have become a Muslim and only way she can live with me is to
become Muslim or else I will leave her to her parents.
09. She started weeping and said, how we will fight with the family and society. You know how
orthodox are our families. I said that this is a lesser fight than to fight against Allah and what
will happen to us on the Last day.
After some persuasion, she accepted Islam on my hand and after that it was simple matter to
convert our other children to islam. Alhamdolillah.
3. On Family members / Others.
10. On my journey to PHULAT on train, I gave the booklet “your trust…” to two of my fellow
passengers. One of them was from Trader family and another was lecturer in Govt. college.
They were much impressed by the book and we had lots of discussions about Islam in the train.
11. Both of them accepted Islam when we were passing MATHURA Junction and they came
with me to PHULAT to see and meet Maulana Kalim Sahib.
I and my newly converted Hindu friends have decided to spend our life in Islamic missionary
activity and spread this message to as many people as we can.
According to Maulana the whole world is thirsty and standing in line to quench their thirst.
It is for Muslims to meet their requirement and save thee people from hell fire. It is their duty
and they will be asked about it in the hereafter, if they did not do it

Story # 109
AN ENGLISH TRADER (NAME WITHELD) UK
Muslims in Woking Mosques were much impressed by the zeal and sincerity by which an
Englishman was preying in the mosque. He used to prostrate for many minutes at a time and
would supplicate with much sincerity and humility. One day the Imam of Mosque asked him as
to what brought him to Islam, here is the reply.
It was the Magic of Prayer which brought me closer to Islam. I was living in Kenya since 1912.
I was a big trader there. I was a very devout Protestant Christian and had very firm beliefs.
Despite my busy schedules I used to read Gospel regularly and join religious activities.
Once I visited Egypt and saw many of the Islamic sites there. I went to Al Azhar Mosque, Ali
Kabeer Mosque, Husain Mosque and Sayyidah Mosque. I was much impressed by these mosque
and the inside atmosphere. It became my practice that whenever I would get free time, I would
visit these mosques.
The scenes were such which would keep me mesmerized. I man would climb on a Minaret and
give call for prayer in a most beautiful and mesmerizing voice. Soon people from all walks of
life would start coming. Old and Young, Black and White, Rich and Poor, Manager and
Messenger. They would take off their headgears, wash those portions, which could get dust…
Then they would stand in neat rows and would complete the prayers in a most orderly manner.
These are scenes which would impress any one who has some observing power. One could see
God’s hand in all of this.
These prayers scenes took me in, I was languishing to join them, when they are washing their
hand and feet, when they were standing in rows when they were putting their faces on ground. I
would enter Mosque happily but would return with a sad heart as to why I did not join with these
people.
So I decided to study about Islam and its prophet. It took me many years, but my deep studies
convinced me of the truth of Islam. I learned Arabic to understand Quran and sayings of prophet
directly….. Then with open heart I got my desire….I was now with those who were preying and
not only an observer!!!
I think Islam is the most perfect of all religions. If you only look at prayer…it includes
cleanliness and hygiene , It is a sort of exercise….It is a unity and community gathering…it is a
meditation…then above all it is Worship of Our Creator and Sustainer …!! (abridged)
Story # 110
JACQUALINE RUTH (AIYESHA HASSAN) PUGH, BRITAIN
Note: Ruth has worked as a civil servant, in London. Now she works a s a Muslim
missionary Regent Park Mosque London
As a child, I used to enjoy going to Sunday School and I can remember once promising myself
that I would read the Bible from cover to cover. Several years later and after marrying and
becoming the mother of two children, I decided to go to Church one day and I noticed that I did
not feel the same warmth that I had known as a child.
There was so much happening in terms of women priests, Homosexuality and various other
alarming stories. As a child wherever I did anything wrong or felt in need of God’s help, I
would go down to nearest Church and ask God to help me and forgive me.
One night, I knelt down beside my bed and recited the Lord’s prayer. I asked God to guide me
along the right way, to forgive me and my sins, and that I had lost my faith and strayed far away
from the beliefs that I once had.
The next day, I decided to go out and buy a copy of Bible and read it from cover to cover. As I
was about to buy a Bible, I saw another religious book called the Quran. I put the Bible in place
and picked up Quran…I just looked thru it and was surprised to find the Jesus was mentioned
there as well as other prophets like Noah, Moses, Abraham and Joseph.
I was amazed to learn that Muslims believed in the same prophets as we did, so I bought the
Quran and took it home with me. I started to read it and began to realize that the guidance I had
asked God the night before was right in my hands.
As times passed on, I came to realize that the message in the Holy Quran is for all of mankind
and so I became a Muslim straight away.
As many of us know, the Gospels were written many years after Jesus, furthermore these gospels
have been rewritten many times over the years and consequently it is significantly distorted
today.
It is now my opinion that if anyone requires true guidance, then they should pray and ask
sincerely for His guidance, salvation and forgiveness and in return He will Guide you towards
Islam, God Willing.
(Abridged) Source:: Riyadh Daily, Aug 1998, p9

Story # 111
http://www.jews-for-allah.org/Jewish-Converts-to-Islam/michelle.htm
Becoming Muslim Michelle - Jew
As-salaamu-alaikum,
I come from a Jewish family in New York. My mother was from S. A. but also Jewish. She
never was comfortable with anyone knowing that. When my father died, she remarried a
Catholic and became one herself. And that is how she brought us up. From the age of 5 I was
told that Jesus was also God...? I never felt comfortable with it.
We moved to the Philippines - that is where my stepfather was from. And life there was
unbearable. My stepfather, to put it mildly, was abusive to me and my 2 brothers. The effect of
that hard life: my spelling is poor, one of my brothers is now a drinker, and the other has a low
self-worth.
When I grew up and we returned to the USA, I left home. I took care of myself by working hard.
I never had time for God, whoever He was. I did not feel that God helped me in any way, so why
bother? I did try to get back to my roots but Judaism made no sense, so I let that go. I did come
across Muslims from time to time but the effect was, how do they dress that way, and why do
they seem different? Over time, the idea of Islam kept coming back to me, so I tried to find out
more. I read the history and life of Mohammed (saas). That is what got to me: such kindness and
sabr (patience) in the face of hardships.
It seemed to me that my life had no direction, so I went to learn more. After reading Surah Al-
Fatihah, I knew I had come home - this is where I wanted to be! I became a Muslim and have
never regretted it. I always knew there was only ONE God - ALLAH - and things have not been
always easy for me. My mother died of cancer soon after I became a Muslim. But the faith I have
helped me make it. Just being able to go to ALLAH with all my pain was such a relief. It is the
only true lifestyle known to man, and it is the truth and the last chance for us. I wish all mankind
could come to know the truth (haqq) of Islam, and its peace and beauty!
Story # 112
The Case of: RAM KRISHNA SHARMA (MOHD. AHMAD) HARIDWAR, INDIA
01. I was born in 1965 in HARIDWAR in a Learned Brahmin Family. My father KESHAV
RAM SHARMA was a big Hindu Scholar. My Grandfather SRI RAM SHARMA was the
founder of GAYATRI SAMAJ. Every learned Hindu knows about him. I was told that in his last
time, he had become Muslim, but that fact is hidden from Hindus.
My whole family belonged to ARYA SAMAJ. I was educated in Ashrams in a strict Hindu way
of teaching. I learned Sanskrit and Vedas and was top in my whole University.
I was appointed teacher in a Sanskrit University near Delhi.
1. While I was teaching, two Apostate Muslims came to my university. I met them, one of them
of very vocal against Islam and he used to say were dirty things about Prophet Mohammad. I
did not like such talks against a very renowned founder of one of the major religion of the world
(I later learned that this man used to deal harshly with his mother and even beat her).
2. One of them was even educated from NADWA College of Lucknow. I heard that one Islamic
Scholar (Maulana Kalim from PHULAT) came to talk to these people. It came to my mind that
if I could convince this Maulana to become Hindu, it would be a very good thing.
3. I met Maulana and told him that Hindu and Vedic Dharma is the oldest and he should accept
it. He gave me a small booklet “Prophet of Islam” by Prof. KS RAMARAO, and told me to
study it. When I studied it, it warmed my hearts towards him.
4. When I spoke to my apostate Muslims, they advised me to read books by Salman Rushdie and
Taslima Nasreen. I read those books and I got much biased against Islam and I threw the book
of RAMARAO on roof.
5. One night I saw in dream my grandfather and he told me, why I have gotten on the wrong
track. He told me that Prophet Mohammad is the same whom we know as KALIKI Avatar.
There is no MUKTI for me unless I believed in him.
6. I woke up and I was alarmed. I realised that listening to these Apostates has mislead me, I
went to roof and retrieved the book by Prof. RAO and read it with interest….. Then I fixed an
appointment with Maulana Kalim in PHULAT and he gave me some books on Islam and I
accepted Islam on his hand. He gave me name which is same as of my Prophet.
7. He then sent me with a Muslim missionary group for 40 days and I learned Prayer and other
Islamic teachings needed for day to day life.
08. Maulana told me to go back to my institute and work there. I started working on those two
apostates… but it seemed to me that they had gone too far.
The one who used to speak bad things about prophet, he died after some time and Ashram people
refused to cremate him according to Hindu rites. His body was thrown away from Ashram and
Police threw it into come gutter.
09. I was not inclined to marriage and wanted to dedicate my life in Islamic missionary activities,
but Maulana told me that I should get married. It is a recommendation from our prophet.
I have given him the authority and he is looking for a suitable wife for me.
10. I am presently living in Benaras, and I go on missionary activities to well known Hindu
religious places.
It is making a very good impression and I am very hopeful from the Mercy of Allah. I have
learned how to read Quran and I have read many books on Islam. I am very interested in books
written on the biography of our prophet.
I am busy in memorization of whole Quran, I have finished more than half of it in three months.
11. Muslims should get close to Quran, because our prophet propagated Islam mostly by
recitation of Quran.
There is no better way to propagate Quran than thru Quran.

Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of March 2008

Story # 113
Sarah Joseph, UK
Sarah Joseph accepted Islam at a very early age, when she was only 16. She was brought up in a
typical British Christian family, where there is no special place for religion. Her mother was
proprietor of a modeling agency.
I have a religious bent since very beginning as was constantly remembering God. I never missed
my daily prayers or Sunday Church. My parents were sort of indifferent towards religion and
would watch me with interest. By the time I was 10, I realized the dangers that Atomic weapons
posed for humanity. I wrote personal letters to Ronald Reagan, Yuri Andropov, and Margaret
Thatcher to reduce their atomic stockpiles. I also took part in many Anti Atomic demonstrations.
In our house people of all religions were coming and working. So we did not have any religious
bias so to say. My elder brother got in love with an Indian Muslim girl and became Muslim to
marry her. No one in family objected to it. Well I knew nothing about Islam and Muslims then.
But slowly I noticed that I was also getting a bias against Muslims and since “Most Biases are a
result of ignorance”, so I decided to read about Islam and get first hand knowledge. The more I
studied about Islam, the more I found that it answered most of my questions and doubts which I
had about Christianity.
The Idea of Original Sin as told by Catholic Church was most repugnant to me, It was a big
relief to me when I found that in Islam there is so concept of Original Sin. When I got convinced
of the truth of Islam, I decided to join it when I was only 16. My parents opposed this, but when
they saw my determination, they gave in and I became a Muslim.
Then I met Mahmood, a fellow worker and we soon married. After the events of 9/11 we took a
lecture tour explaining the position of Islam against terrorism. My child was only three weeks
old at that time and I used to carry him on my lecture tours. Then we started a magazine name
“Hope” that was intended to remove the doubts and prejudices that are prevalent against Islam in
UK and Western countries. It became quite popular and many Non Muslims read it to know
about Islam.
I think Islam and Christianity should have a serious dialog between them, only then there can be
any hope for peace in the world. I know about both religions, so persons like us can play a big
role in such dialogs. (abridged)
Story # 114
ASIYA ABD, AUSTRALIA
I have always, since developing an ability to think deeply, believed in the existence of a single
Creator, on whom every thing that exists is dependent. Though my parents are Buddhist, from
the age of 13, I have steadfastly prayed to the creator and asked for guidance every day that I can
remember.. Being schooled within a Christian environment, I naturally identified myself as a
Christian.
Sadly my knowledge of Islam was minimal. I perceived it as a bizarre religion, limited only to a
few underdeveloped nations, most of which were in ME. It endorsed a suppressive life-style,
particularly for women. Muslim women I presumed were inferior, a passive domestic slave,
bashed often and forced to compete among four or more of her husband’s affection.
I got all these ideas from hearsay and TV documentaries shown in our country.
As I entered University, I came into contact with quite a number of Muslim students from
various backgrounds. I was drawn to them and developed a curious inclination to learn and
understand more about their religion.
I observed how content they seemed and their openness and warmth towards myself and each
other. I gradually became fascinated with Islam and thru a process of education, developed a
greater respect for it than by beloved Christianity.
I was stunned at how wrong my previous conceptions had been and became particularly
overwhelmed at various entitlements, equality and acknowledgement Islam provided for women.
I wanted to know everything about Islam and …by sheer grace of God, I at last understood the
faults of Christian theology and of the concepts which I previously accepted. At Midday on
August 1994, before over 20 witnesses, I recited the SHAHADA and became a Muslim.
I shall never forget the bliss of that day and how much my life is turned around in only a year’s
time.
I have been often asked what it is like to be a revert and of the difficulties I must endure… I do
not want pity, but I give few examples.
The initial period was by far the hardest. Family disputes took place almost daily, I was
showered with verbal abuse, ridicule and threats…On many occasions my room was torn apart…
there have been times when I was locked out of home and forced to abstain from dinner as pork
was deliberately served…Even to this day all my mail is opened.
I cannot perform my prayers until I am sure no one is around… I must defend the Muslims and
Islam portrayed on the media and fight against the stereotypes.
However I do not claim to have a miserable life. I am more content and at peace now than I ever
have been….From this religion, I have gained a profound insight into the operations of human
behavior and sociology.
(Abridged) Source:: Islamic review (Quoted in DAWAH INT. PAK. NOV 1996)
Story # 115
Nakata Khaula
A Japanese Woman's Experience of Hijab
When I returned to Islam, the religion of our inborn nature, a fierce debate raged about girls
observing the Hijab at schools in France. It still does. The majority, it seemed, thought that
wearing the head-scarf was contrary to the principle that public -that is state-funded - schools
should be neutral with regard to religion. Even as a non-Muslim, I could not understand why
there was such a fuss over such a small thing as a scarf on a Muslim student's head.
Muslims contributed a proportionate amount of tax to the state funds. In my opinion, schools
could respect religious beliefs and practices of students as long as they did not disrupt the school
routine, nor pose a threat to discipline…
The feeling still persists amongst non-Muslims that Muslim women wear the Hijab simply
because they are slaves to tradition, so much so that it is seen as a symbol of oppression. Women'
s liberation and independence is, so they believe, impossible unless they first remove the Hijab.
Such naiveté is shared by "Muslims" with little or no knowledge of Islam. Being so used to
secularism and religious eclecticism, pick and mix, they are unable to comprehend that Islam is
universal and eternal. This apart, women all over the world, non-Arabs, are embracing Islam and
wearing the Hijab as a religious requirement, not a misdirected sense of "tradition." I am but one
example of such women. My Hijab is not a part of my racial or traditional identity; it has no
social or political significance; it is, purely and simply, my religious identity.
For non-Muslims, the Hijab not only covers a woman' s hair, but also hides something, leaving
them no access. They are being excluded from something which they have taken for granted in
secular society.
I have worn the Hijab since embracing Islam in Paris. The exact form of the Hijab varies
according to the country one is in, or the degree of the individual's religious awareness. In France
I wore a simple scarf which matched my dress and perched lightly on my head so that it was
almost fashionable! Now, in Saudi Arabia, I wear an all-covering black cape; not even my eyes
are visible. Thus, I have experienced the Hijab from its simplest to its most complete form.
What does the Hijab mean to me? Although there have been many books and articles about the
Hijab, they always tend to be written from an outsider's point of view; I hope this will allow me
to explain what I can observe from the inside, so to speak.
When I decided to declare my Islam, I did not think whether I could pray five times a day or
wear the Hijab. Maybe I was scared that if I had given it serious thought I would have reached a
negative conclusion, and that would affect my decision to become a Muslim. Until I visited the
main mosque in Paris I had nothing to do with Islam; neither the prayers nor the Hijab were
familiar to me. In fact, both were unimaginable but my desire to be a Muslim was too strong
(Alhamdulilah) for me to be overly concerned with what awaited me on the "other side" of my
conversion.
The benefits of observing Hijab became clear to me following a lecture at the mosque when I
kept my scarf on even after leaving the building. The lecture had filled me with such a previously
unknown spiritual satisfaction that I simply did not want to remove it. Because of the cold
weather, I did not attract too much attention but I did feel different, somehow purified and
protected; I felt as if I was in Allah' s company. As a foreigner in Paris, I sometimes felt uneasy
about being stared at by men. In my Hijab I went unnoticed, protected from impolite stares.
My Hijab made me happy; it was both a sign of my obedience to Allah and a manifestation of
my faith. I did not need to utter beliefs, the Hijab stated them clearly for all to see, especially
fellow Muslims, and thus it helped to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood in Islam. Wearing the
Hijab soon became spontaneous, albeit purely voluntary. No human being could force me to
wear it; if they had, perhaps I would have rebelled and rejected it. However, the first Islamic
book I read used very moderate language in this respect, saying that "Allah recommends it (the
Hijab) strongly" and since Islam (as the word itself indicates) means we are to obey Allah' s will
I accomplished my Islamic duties willingly and without difficulty, Alhamdolillah.
Two weeks after my return to Islam, I went back to Japan for a family wedding and took the
decision not to return to my studies in France; ..After six months in Japan, my desire to study
Arabic grew so much that I decided to go to Cairo, where I knew someone. None of my host
family there spoke English (or Japanese!) and the lady who took my hand to lead me into the
house was covered from head to toe in black. Even her face was covered. Although this is now
familiar to me here in Riyadh, I remember being surprised at the time, recalling an incident in
France when I had seen such dress and thought, "there is a woman enslaved by Arabic tradition,
unaware of real Islam," (which, I believed, taught that covering the face was not a necessity, but
an ethnic tradition).
Nevertheless, I balked at the suggestion that I should wear my khimar back in Japan. I was
angry at the sister's lack of understanding: Islam commands us to cover our bodies, and as long
as this is done, one may dress as desired. Every society has its own fashions and such long black
clothes in Japan could make people think I am crazy, and reject Islam even before I could
explain its teachings. Our argument revolved around this aspect.
After another six months in Cairo, however, I was so accustomed to my long dress that I started
to think that I would wear it on my return to Japan. My concession was that I had some dresses
made in light colors, and some white khimars, in the belief that they would be less shocking in
Japan than the black variety.
I was right. The Japanese reacted rather well to my white khimars, and they seemed to be able to
guess that I was of a religious persuasion. I heard one girl telling her friend that I was a Buddhist
nun; how similar a Muslimah, a Buddhist nun and a Christian nun are!
My father was worried when I went out in long sleeves and a head-cover even in the hottest
weather, but I found that my Hijab protected me from the sun. Indeed, it was I who also felt
uneasy looking at my younger sister's legs while she wore short pants. …
It is clear that what is acceptable to be bared in society varies according to societal or individual
understanding. For example, in Japan fifty years ago it was considered vulgar to swim in a
swimming suit but now bikinis are the norm. If, however, a woman swam topless she would be
regarded as shameless. To go topless on the south coast of France, however, is the norm.
Muslims are accused of being over-sensitive about the human body but the degree of sexual
harassment which occurs these days justifies modest dress. Just as a short skirt can send the
signal that the wearer is available to men, so the Hijab signals, loud and clear: "I am forbidden
for you."
Having married, I left Japan for Saudi Arabia, where it is customary for the women to cover
their face outdoors. I was impatient to try the niqab (face cover), and curious to know how it felt.
..Once accustomed to, the niqab is certainly not inconvenient. In fact I felt like the owner of a
secret masterpiece, a treasure which you can neither know about, nor see. Whereas non-Muslims
may think they are life imitating caricatures when they see Muslim couples walk in the streets,
the oppressed, and the oppressor, the possessed, and the possessor, the reality is that the women
feel like queens being led by servants.
It is an error of judgment to think that a Muslim woman covers herself because she is a private
possession of her husband. In fact, she preserves her dignity and refuses to be possessed by
strangers. It is non-Muslim (and "liberated" Muslim) women who are to be pitied for displaying
their private self for all to see.
Observing the Hijab from outside, it is impossible to see what it hides. The gap, between being
outside and looking in, and being inside and looking out, explains in part the void in the
understanding of Islam. An outsider may see Islam as restricting Muslims. In side, however,
there is peace, freedom, and joy, which those who experience it have never known before. …
A person blinded by prejudice may not see it, but a woman in Hijab is as brightly beautiful as an
angel, full of self-confidence, serenity, and dignity. No signs of oppression scar her face. "For
indeed it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts within the bosoms, that grow blind,"
says the Qur'an (Al-Hajj 22:46). How else can we explain the great gap in understanding
between us and such people? (abridged)
Story # 116
The Case of: AMIT KUMAR (ABDUL RAHMAN), KHATAULI, INDIA
01. I was born in a small village BHAINSI near KHATAULI. My father was Dr. Mohan Kumar,
we are three brothers and one sister.
I was usually late in finishing my school Homework…..once I went to take notes from my
Muslim friend, I was told that he had gone to mosque. I went there, he told me I could not enter
mosque as I was unclean. I told I am cleaner than you and my clothes are cleaner than you, how
come I cannot enter mosque?
02. Then I went for higher study to a near by city. There on Fridays, teacher would ask, who
wants to go for Friday prayer, raise your hand, I also used to raise my hand and went out and
played. Once some one remonstrated me and took me to a mosque and told me to pray.
03. Then I went to MUZAFFAR NAGAR to study in an Inter college and there one Muslim told
me, I am very good looking but I will burn in hell… when I asked further, he told me to become
Muslim. I accepted Islam without knowing much about Islam or what it means.
Then after many years I met Maulana Kalim Sahib, and then I learned what Islam really is, and
then I reaccepted Islam and started following its teachings carefully.
04. On his advice, I learned UNANI Medicine from a HAKIM and I have opened my own
practice and I hope to earn my living as well as serve humanity thru it.
05. I went to my parent, and they asked me to come back to my religion. My stepmother was
very much against my becoming Muslim. When I refused they tried to persecute me.
I remained firm, so much so that one night they plotted to kill me. My sister informed me and I
left the house
D. How I saved my Islam:
06. I had to struggle for my survival and I had to do many odd jobs and even menial jobs. But
Allah gave me strength and saved my faith.
2. On Parents.
I am working on my father and meet him occasionally. His earlier anguish has subsided and he
is ready to listen to me now.
Same is the case with my mother also. Once she had agreed to become Muslim, but then she
changed her idea. I pray to Allah to guide them to the true path
07. I advise Muslims to become real Muslim. I see the people who brought me to the door of
Islam, there is no change in them.
They should become true Muslim and invite others also to islam….this is their real job….other
things are just to earn living and not their main job.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of April 2008.

Story # 117
JENNEFER FYOD , USA
Jennifer was born in Dominion Republic. She was 21 and was married with three children…
She was just reflecting on what is he purpose of life. Was she born to just live and reproduce
and establish some relation ships….The things were such when events of 9/11 happened and we
pick up the story from there…
My mother in law screamed…”Another plane crashed!!” I moved to TV screen and saw WTC
Towers crashing down. I was shocked to the core,! Is it real or am I dreaming, who could do
such acts…It was only yesterday that I was shopping in WTC!!! If it were today! May be my
time to die has not yet come…but what iis the purpose of my life.
After a few days, I heard news about another plane crash, this time AI flight 587, the same flight
I took only a week before. This was second incident which reminded me that some how I am
being saved….but for what.
Then I witnessed that Muslims in US were subject to witch hunt and insults every where. They
were taunted, labeled as Taliban and asked to go back. What is the fault of these innocent
people, why they should be subjected to these insults? These thoughts created a sort of
sympathy towards Muslims in my heart. I entered into a college for some course, which also had
a number of Muslim girls. I asked them about why they have to wear scarf and other things
about Islam and Muslims, I found that they knew very little about Islam and could not answer
my queries satisfactorily.
Then I tried Internet….there I got lot of information about Islam. First I wanted to make sure
that whether Prophet Mohammad did exist or he was an imaginary personality. I learned that
indeed he existed and his life history is preserved in great details.
I was surprised to learn that God had sent another prophet after Jesus. That this prophet was last
prophet and he had brought message for whole humanity. Islam gave questions to all my doubts
which I had about what is purpose of life and why we are here.
I decided to join prayers with Muslims in Ramadan of year 2002. The mosque was full of people
of every race color and country. It was so different from Church. Every body was greeting each
other with “SALAM ALAIKUM (May peace be with you)” At that time I did not know what it
meant. I also did not know what they do in prayer. Some one advised me to stand quite and do
what others do.
I was much impressed to know that all Muslims irrespective of where they live, face towards
Kaaba when they prey. This unites all Muslims to a common cause, that also was so different
from Christianity.
I decided to wear Muslim scarf as a trial, I found that it gave me a sense of protection, I was safe
from hungry grazes. Many people told me why you wear scarf when you are not Muslim? I told
it gives me a sense of protection.
I was getting closer to Islam, but I was not sure what will be reaction of my family. I tries first
on my younger sister that I want to become a Muslim. She told that she would continue to love
me, but my parents would be very angry. My father accepted my decision (because he liked my
ides on covering up my body), my mother also agreed with my decision after few months.
I decided to become Muslim in Jan 2003. I took a bath, wore new dress with Muslim scarf and
took a train to local Mosque. I told Imam my decision to accept Islam. Every one in the Mosque
became very happy, they all greeted me warmly and asked if I needed any help. I had become a
member of Islamic brotherhood!!!
That night I slept first time as a Muslim, Id dreamt, as if I was in a beautiful garden, and a very
handsome man, with unclear facial features, was greeting me. When I woke up, I thought that
person was Prophet Mohammad, but I was told that it could be an angel, because angel of God
appear as men with unclear facial features. Allah knows Best (abridged)
Story # 118
ANN ROCKFELLER, BRITAIN
Note: Ann , A British physician, worked at the Institute of Clinical Blood Research of
London, prior to her marriage to an Egyptian. She shifted from London to Cairo 18 years
ago. Although her Egyptian husband was indifferent towards Islam, she found the faith
and accepted it.
“Prior to my coming to Egypt I knew nothing about Islam, but I was impressed by the good
nature of the Egyptian people and their tolerance.
When I came to Egypt, I realized the difference in the values that exist in the west and the values
that prevail in Egypt and I jumped to the conclusion that Islam was the cause of this difference.
Although my husband is a Muslim, I heard no word from him about Islam and I never saw him
performing Islamic rituals. My husband did not know that I was performing Muslim, even five
years after I had become a Muslim (that is a average Broad Minded Modern Muslim for you –
Ed.). When he came to know that I had become a Muslim, he remained indifferent.
But gradually and slowly, I was able to influence both my daughter and my husband to become
practicing Muslims, and I thank God for that.
I regret that Westerners have a totally wrong concept about Islam and Muslims and that is due to
what information they receive from the Western Media. I believe that most westerners have no
antagonistic attitude towards Islam and they would be ready to accept Islam, if they are provided
with correct knowledge about it.
I have been trying to clarify Islamic principles to my relatives in England , the best way to
preach Islam is to behave well and to implant its values in the hearts of the new generations. The
responsibilities of Housewife is therefore very great, my own example with my husband and my
sons and daughters is an example.
(Abridged) Source:: Riyadh Daily May 15,1998 p9

Story # 119
Noor's Testimony
Insights into Women in Islam vs. Women in Hinduism
I came from a purely Hindu family where we were always taught to regard ourselves (i.e.
women) as beings who were eventually to be married off and have children and serve the
husband - whether he was kind or not. Other than this I found that there were a lot of things
which really oppressed women, such as:
* If a woman was widowed, she would always have to wear a white sari (costume), eat
vegetarian meals, cut her hair short, and never re-marry. The bride always had to pay the dowry
(bridal money) to the husband's family. And the husband could ask for anything, irrespective of
whether the bride would have difficulty giving it.
* Not only that, if after marriage she was not able to pay the full dowry she would be both
emotionally and physically tortured, and could end up being a victim of "kitchen death" where
the husband, or both the mother-in-law and the husband try to set fire to the wife while she is
cooking or is in the kitchen, and try to make it look like an accidental death. More and more of
these instances are taking place. The daughter of a friend of my own father's had the same fate
last year!
* In addition to all this, men in Hinduism are treated literally as among the gods. In one of the
religious Hindu celebrations, unmarried girls pray for and worship an idol representing a
particular god (Shiva) so that they may have husbands like him. Even my own mother had asked
me to do this. This made me see that the Hindu religion which is based on superstitions and
things that have no manifest proof , but were merely traditions which oppressed women could
not be right.
Subsequently, when I came to England to study, I thought that at least this is a country which
gives equal rights to men and women, and does not oppress them. We all have the freedom to do
as we like, I thought. Well, as I started to meet people and make new friends, learn about this
new society, and go to all the places my friends went to in order to "socialize" (bars, dance halls,
etc.). I realized that this "equality" was not so true in practice as it was in theory.
Outwardly, women were seen to be given equal rights in education, work, and so forth, but in
reality women were still oppressed in a different, more subtle way. When I went with my friends
to those places they hung out at, I found everybody interested to talk to me and I thought that
was normal. But it was only later that I realized how naïve I was, and recognized what these
people were really looking for. I soon began to feel uncomfortable, as if I was not myself: I had
to dress in a certain way so that people would like me, and had to talk in a certain way to please
them. I soon found that I was feeling more and more uncomfortable, less and less myself, yet I
could not get out. Everybody was saying they were enjoying themselves, but I don't call this
enjoying.
I think women in this way of life are oppressed; they have to dress in a certain way in order to
please and appear more appealing, and also talk in a certain way so people like them. During this
time I had not thought about Islam, even though I had some Muslim acquaintances. ..
In these days of so called "society of equal rights", you are expected to have a boyfriend (or
you're weird!) and to not be a virgin. So this is a form of oppression even though some women
do not realize it. When I came to Islam, it was obvious that I had finally found permanent
security. A religion, a belief that was so complete and clear in every aspect of life. Many people
have a misconception that Islam is an oppressive religion, where women are covered from head
to toe, and are not allowed any freedom or rights. In fact, women in Islam are given more rights,
and have been for the past 1400 years, compared to the only-recently rights given to non-Muslim
women in some western and some other societies. But there are, even now, societies where
women are still oppressed, as I mentioned earlier in relation to Hindu women.
Muslim women have the right to inheritance. They have the right to run their own trade and
business. They have the full right to ownership, property, disposal over their wealth to which the
husband has no right. They have the right to education, a right to refuse marriage as long as this
refusal is according to reasonable and justifiable grounds. The Qur'an itself, which is the Word of
God, contains many verses commanding men to be kind to their wives and stressing the rights of
women. Islam gives the right set of rules, because they are NOT made by men, but made by
God; hence it is a perfect religion.
Quite often Muslim women are asked why they are covered from head to toe, and are told that
this is oppression - it is not. In Islam, marriage is an important part of life, the making of the
society. Therefore, a woman should not go around showing herself to everybody, only for her
husband. Even the man is not allowed to show certain parts of his body to none but his wife. In
addition, God has commanded Muslim women to cover themselves for their modesty:
If we look around at any other society, we find that in the majority of cases women are attacked
and molested because of how they are dressed. Another point I'd like to comment on is that the
rules and regulation laid down in Islam by God do not apply just to women but to men also.
There is no intermingling and free-running between men and women for the benefit of both.
Whatever God commands is right, wholesome, pure and beneficial to mankind; there is no doubt
about that.
When I put on my Hijab (veil), I was really happy to do it. In fact, I really want to do it. When I
put on the Hijab, I felt a great sense of satisfaction and happiness. Satisfied that I had obeyed
God's command. And happy with the good and blessings that come with it. I have felt secure and
protected. In fact people respect me more for it. I could really see the difference in behaviour
towards me.
Finally, I'd like to say that I had accepted Islam not blindly, or under any compulsion. In the
Qur'an itself there is a verse which says "Let there be no compulsion in religion". I accepted
Islam with conviction. I have seen, been there, done that, and seen both sides of the story. I know
and have experienced what the other side is like, and I know that I have done the right thing.
Islam does not oppress women, but rather Islam liberates them and gives them the respect they
deserve. Islam is the religion God has chosen for the whole of mankind. Those who accept it are
truly liberated from the chains and shackles of mankind whose ruling and legislating necessitates
nothing but the oppression of one group by another and the exploitation and oppression of one
sex by the other. This is not the case of Islam which truly liberated women and gave them an
individuality not given by any other authority. (Abridged)
Story # 120
The Case of: RAM VEER SINGH (MOHD. SALMAN) DELHI, INDIA
01. We belong to Delhi, where I was born. We live in WAZIRABAD locality of Delhi. I did my
MA in English and specialization in Martial arts. I have been state champion of Delhi for three
years. I run a Martial arts coaching institute in Delhi.
I was in search of truth from very beginning. A Buddhist scholar was living in my
neighborhood. He asked me to accept Buddhism and told that we will sent me to some foreign
country. I accepted Buddhism, but once I saw Pork meat in his Fridge, that turned me away
from his, as he was a hypocrite.
02. My mother used to go to Church regularly, I also used to go with her. The priest was very
happy to meet me. He also told me that if I become Christian, they will send me to some foreign
country. But when I looked closely, I found the same type of idol worship there also.
Then I met a Muslim Sufi, who asked me to become Muslim, and he told me to recite some
incantation. I got some peace, but when I saw that my teacher was being “worshipped” like
Hindu Brahmin, I said they all are same from the inside.
03. It so happened that I met one Muslim gentleman during reconstruction of my house. He told
me something about Islam and when he told him about that Muslim Sufi, he laughed and asked
me to meet Maulana Kalim Sahib in PHULAT.
I reached PHULAT and Maulana told me in detail about Monotheism and how it is different
from all those who make partners with True God. His talks impressed me. He gave me some
books about Islam, I read them and came to know what real Islam is all about.
04. I accepted Islam at the hands of Maulana. He gave me my new Islamic name and asked me
to learn about Prayer and other Islamic teachings.
C. How I saved My Islam:

05. I also had to face many difficulties, which every new Muslim faces in the society. Many
students left my coaching Institute when I became Muslim. Allah sent many more students.
My in-laws tried to put hindrances in our path. Then some of my creditors from whom I had
taken loan for re-building my house behaved badly and harshly with me…but these were minor
tests and Allah gave me strength and solved my problems..
I presented Islam to my wife and Allah opened her hearts to Islam. She and all my children
accepted Islam, Alhamdolillah.
2. On Parents.
After my wife, I presented Islam to my father and by grace of Allah, he also accepted Islam.
06. I came to know that one Muslim Girl from a good family of MP had done court marriage
with a Hindu boy and was living with him as Hindu.
Maulana asked me to go and meet her, I went to their house and talked to the boy. When I
presented Islam to him, he accepted islam, then I asked the girl to re-enter Islam and then their
marriage was redone as per Islam.
07. Then I came to know that a Muslim Lawyer had married a Muslim girl to a Hindu boy after
maker her Hindu. I got very angry and went to that lawyer and told what type of Muslim is he..
Then I went the same night to the couples home in Delhi and talked to them about
Islam….Alhamdolillah the boy, who was a computer engineer accepted Islam. The girl (who was
a Muslim) did not know how to recite the KALIMA (Basic creed of Islam)… I told her and then
they were married according to Islamic rites Alhamdolillah.
I am active in DAWAH activity and now I want to memorize the whole Quran. I ask my Muslim
friends to pray for me.
08. The whole world is thirsty about truth. They go tot his door and that door in search of truth.
So many god-men are misleading the people.
It is Islam which will quench their thirst. It is duty of Muslims to bring the message of Islam to
them. It is their duty as a Muslim.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of May 2008

Story # 121
JERMAINE (MOHD. ABDUL AZIZ) JACKSON, USA.
JERMAINE JACKSON is brother to the well known Pop Singer Michel Jackson. He was born
in Grey Indiana in 1954. His mother’s name is Katherine Jackson and Father’s name Joseph
Jackson. He is also a very good singer, but not as famous as his brother. The story of his
conversion to Islam is a commentary of prophetic saying “When Allah wants to do favor to some
one, He opens his hearts to Islam”.
It was in 1989, when me and my sister took a tour of some ME countries. We were very well
received and a large crowd used to gather wherever we went. It was in Bahrain, when we were
surrounded by a large group of small children. They asked me many questions…..some one
asked me about my religion….when I asked what was their religion….they answered in one
voice Islam!!
This answer and their confidence was the one thing which changed my outlook about Islam. I
was forced to learn about Islam and when I knew the truth, it was almost impossible for me to
hold back. Therefore I declared my conversion to Islam. I did not care the way Western Media
was doing propaganda against me,
When I recited the Islamic KALIMA of faith, I felt that it was a sort of re-birth of me. Islam
gave me answers to all Question, which as a Christian I was not getting. In Islam I got the
answer about the birth of Jesus Christ and many such issues.
I knew that US media was presenting a very bad image of Islam and Muslims. They did the
same thing to me and against my brother Michel. My brother has no grudge against Islam and
Muslims and is very close to Islam himself. But the media sensationalized trivial issues
concerning me and my family. They threatened that they would make USA too hot for us to stay
therein.
We tried our best to help Bosnian Muslims as well as poor Muslims in many African countries.
Our family is very serious in helping poor because we ourselves were very poor not long ago.
My sister was also very much surprised about me accepting Islam, she had reservations about
Polygamy in Islam. When I told the circumstances and conditions under which Islam allows
limited polygamy, and the downfall in sexual morality which free western society was bringing,
she got convinced (abridged)
Story # 122
Young, Female and Muslim
by Jocelyn Wiener, Times Staff Writer. © St. Petersburg Times. Published October 7, 2002
The first time 21-year-old Rose Munoz deflates the Whoopee cushion; everyone jumps, and
then begins to giggle. Rolling her eyes at her vice president's antics, 19-year-old Amal Kurdi, the
president, calls the members of the Sisters United Muslim Association back to attention.
It is just before noon on Friday, and the young women, most of whom wear Hijab, the traditional
Muslim head covering, are simultaneously making their way through an extensive agenda
(student-teacher dinner, poetry reading, highway cleanup, beauty tips) and a veritable feast of
college student food (strawberries and Cool Whip, Keebler Chips Deluxe, carrots and ranch
dressing).
One young woman, a recent convert, suggests that SUMA host a dinner for the parents of
converts. Rose, who also is a convert, embraces any opportunity to spread awareness about
Islam.
"We can have different people get up and talk about why we converted, and how we faced
hardship with our parents," Rose says.
Every year, about 20,000 people in the United States convert to Islam, in addition to those who
convert in prison, according to a study conducted last year by the Council on American-Islamic
Relations. Of these converts, there are more women than men, the majority of them young and
unmarried, says Hodan Hassan, spokeswoman for CAIR. They come to Islam because they have
Muslim co-workers and friends, because they have Muslim boyfriends, or because they start
studying and find they agree with the tenets of a religion that emphasizes modesty and
community.
In the past year, Muslim women have frequently been called upon to defend their role in their
faith. But young women who convert to Islam often face an additional challenge: persuading
their families to accept their decisions. Islam insists that people maintain close family ties and
show respect for their parents. For those who are going against their parents' wishes merely by
practicing Islam, negotiating a balance can prove difficult…
Rose did not intend to wear the scarf. But slowly, she started covering her hair with baseball
caps. Then she moved on to bandanas. Her Muslim friends assured her that when she was ready
to wear Hijab, she would know. The day she put it on, Rose felt liberated.
"I used to dress very provocatively," she says. "People say, "Don't you miss it?' What do I miss?
I gained something. I don't get gawked at by random men anymore."
Rose says her parents, however, were horrified by her decision to wear Hijab.
"You chose your religion over us," she says they told her. "People will discriminate against you.
You're making yourself a third-rate citizen." She says her father calls her every time he hears
about an attack on a Muslim. By wearing Hijab, he tells her, "You've basically painted a bull's-
eye on you saying "shoot me.'"
Her younger sister, a 15-year-old high school sophomore who wants to be a movie star, asked
her, "How are you going to heaven?"
Rose Munoz moves so naturally in her elegant peach-colored Hijab and her matching loose-
fitting julbab that it seems surprising her first exposure to Islam took place only three years ago.
A friend lent her a copy of the Koran. Rose flipped through it a bit, read maybe five pages, then
put it away.
Although she had been baptized twice -- by Roman Catholics in New York and Baptists in St.
Petersburg -- Rose hadn't felt comfortable in either faith. She was scolded for asking too many
questions and gossiped about for wearing tight clothes and partying.
By the time she started studying at USF, Rose had long since stopped attending church. She
began seeing groups of young women, their hair covered with Hijab, walking together around
campus. She started looking for them at the library every Friday. On one of these Fridays, Sept.
3, 1999, a month into her freshman year, Rose approached them.
"I really want a "head thing' and to come to the mosque if you guys will take me," she blurted
out. Amal, who remains one of Rose's best friends, was in that group. The girls brought Rose
home, gave her appropriate clothing, and invited her to join them for Friday prayers at the
mosque.
"It was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen," Rose remembers. "It was so calming and so
peaceful. Everybody was bowing down and praying. I'd always been at churches where the front
pews were reserved for the people who gave the most money."
When the prayers were over, Rose looked at Amal. "I want to convert right now," she said. "Are
you sure?" Amal asked.
"This is it," Rose answered. She could feel it.
Rose's struggle to defend her faith to her family was intensified by the climate of fear that many
Muslims experienced in the aftermath of Sept. 11. Despite such difficulties, in the 13 months
since Sept. 11, many Muslim groups have noticed an increase in new converts.
"We've seen a surge of interest in Islam," says Altaf Ali, director of CAIR Florida, "and as that
surge increases, so does the conversion ratio." Britney Johnson, a 17-year-old senior at Durant
High School, is one of the new converts. Raised in a Baptist family, the fourth of seven children,
she had the same initial reaction as many of her peers in the aftermath of Sept. 11.
"I thought we should turn the Middle East into a parking lot," she remembers. But at that time,
Britney's family lived next door to a Muslim family, and Britney was friendly with many of the
neighbors' children. So she bought The Idiot's Guide to Islam, and started studying. That was in
November 2001. After a few months, a friend gave her Amal's phone number. Britney started
attending Sunday classes at the mosque. She converted this past August. "I was nervous, dizzy,"
she says. "This has been the most incredible month of my life."
[Times photo: Ken Helle. Converts take classes and study books such as the Sahih Muslim, a
collection of sayings and deeds by the Muslim prophet Mohammad.]
Britney says that if she could choose to clarify one misconception about Islam, she would
explain that women are not oppressed. She says her family has accepted her conversion "pretty
well." "It's so opposite from what we hear on the news," she says. "In my world religions class,
people say, "Wow, I never knew Islam was so close to Judaism and Christianity.'"
Muslim leaders are also quick to dispel many of the myths surrounding the role women play in
Islam. Hassan of CAIR says many of these stereotypes arise from the incorrect understanding
"that we're voiceless, that it is mandated in Islam that we have no rights, that we're chattel."
Sofian Abdelaziz, director of the American Muslim Association of North America, says that
Islam emphasizes the importance of women's education.
"In the mosque, women are supposed to be active, to teach," he says. "The daughter of the
prophet used to teach Islam, even to men." Hassan says actions taken by specific governments,
especially Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia, have led many people in the West to believe Islam is a
misogynistic faith, when in fact those governments are breaking Islamic law. Hassan notes that
Indonesia, the largest Muslim country, has a female president, Egypt and Jordan have a higher
percentage of female engineers and doctors than the United States, and a larger percentage of
women sit in the Iranian parliament than in the U.S. Congress.
"There is no compulsion -- and this is in the Koran -- in faith," she says. "You give people the
option to cover. If you force them, it goes against Islam."
For many young women, the emphasis on modesty is a crucial reason for their attraction to
Islam. Just three weeks ago, Arrica Clark's life was, by her own estimation, a mess. "I used to be
real boy crazy, wearing those little shorts," says the 27-year-old single mother, as she sits in
McDonald's watching three of her four small children play with Happy Meal figurines. The
father of 6-year-old Kashayla and 5-year-old Lonnie sends Arrica some child support. The father
of 3-year-old Jamellah and 14-month-old Fatima does not. To make ends meet, Arrica works as a
cashier at a local U-Save, leaving the children in government-subsidized day care.
Stressed from what she calls "living in the world," she says she used to "cuss like a sailor" at
work and scream at her children at home. As a high school student, Arrica had known some
Muslim girls and had once tried wearing Hijab. She had taken it off after three days because she
was confused. The father of Jamellah and Fatima is Muslim, and had encouraged Arrica to
consider Islam. Arrica had only been with her most recent boyfriend for two months when she
became pregnant with a fifth child, due in April. Her boyfriend hit her. She kicked him out. A
few days later, she went to an open house at the mosque, and said shahada, the prayer for
accepting Islam.
"I felt like a whole new person," she says. "I felt clean. Men can't holler at me," she adds. "I don't
miss that part." Her father, who is Christian, doesn't know she converted. She doesn't think he'd
approve.
[Times photo: Ken Helle. Amal Kurdi, center, in discussion with Taqwa Aquil, left, and Anna
Harbaoui at the end of their Islamic conversion class.]
Rose still plays soccer with other SUMA members, still rides horseback, still visits Busch
Gardens, still eats pizza and watches movies and dances when she is alone with her friends.
What she misses most, she says, is a normal relationship with her family. She believes that, with
time, such a relationship is possible. "My mom loves me so much she'll buy me scarves
sometimes," Rose smiles. "My grandmother gave me a beautiful, velvet embroidered scarf.
They'll respect my prayer, but at the same time ask, "Why are you so fanatical?"
In the shadowy side room of the al-Qassam mosque in north Tampa, 10 young women sit in a
semi-circle on the beige and brown-striped carpet. A fan whirs overhead, gently stirring the
flowing scarves -- ivory, violet, cobalt, sage -- that conceal heads of blond, brown and black hair.
Loose dresses, worn for modesty, drape gracefully over bodies thick and thin.
It is Sunday, just after noon, and Amal and her friend Taqwa Aquil are leading a weekly class,
with support from Rose and Jennifer Valko, a quiet 20-year-old who converted two years ago
and is co-vice president of SUMA. The more recent converts, including Arrica and Britney,
mostly listen and ask questions. "What if you haven't prayed and it's time to go to sleep?" asks
Britney. "I've heard it's better not to pray tired," Rose says. "That's true, but you should take the
necessary steps, set an alarm," Amal replies. They talk about the prayer for guidance. "This
might sound silly, but I'm a dorky student and I do it before I take a test," Amal confesses. "If I'm
all stressed out, I tell myself, I studied, I did what I can, and now I'm just leaving it to him to
help me through."
"You know what's cool?" Rose says, looking up. "In the Koran, Allah's mercy is greater than his
wrath. All these prayers are really long, but the one for forgiveness is really simple."
At 2 p.m., the imam chants the call to prayer. The young women stand in a row, their eyes
closed, their heads bowed. Slowly, quiet sounds penetrate the silence of the mosque -- the
whirring of the fan, the cries of children outside, the rustle of dresses as the young women kneel,
bow, kneel, stand, and the sound of the imam's voice, calling the name of Allah.
Story # 123
Somayyah From a Bathing Suit to Hijab
By Christian Hauser, Islamic Voice
Note: SOMAYYAH was educated in a convent and as a teenager worked as a model and in
cocktail lounges. Growing up in Ireland and Britain, she tried drugs and liquor land supported
alcoholic and sometimes abusive parents. Years later the 25 year old Irish woman moved to the
Gulf Arab Emirate of Dubai where, through books loaned by friends, she learned about Islam.
“I would go to the beach in my bathing suit and listen to Qur’an on my Walkman,” she said.
“One day I was going to the beach in a taxi driven by a Pakistani who had Qur’an on the radio. I
got there and put one foot on the ground to get out.
“Then I looked at the taxi driver and said: ‘No, take me back home.’ I couldn’t go to the beach
and take my clothes off.”
Now Somayyah, a school teacher who adopted the name of Islam’s first female martyr, will not
leave her flat without covering herself from head to toe in Hijab. Since she converted her family
has refused to see her.
In interviews, some said they converted because they were disillusioned by changes in their own
religious traditions.
Others said they were influenced by husbands or relatives or that they liked the sense of
community.
“I had seen so many changes in the church that unsettled me,” said Kathy Grigg, an American in
her mid-thirties whose family supported her conversion to Islam.
“Latin was dropped from the mass, women were not only no longer required to cover their heads
in church but were permitted to wear pantsuits. Abstinence from eating meat on Fridays was
dropped.”
“There was no more reverence. But to me, seeing a Muslim pray, to bow down on the ground..”
Bilal Philips, 49, a Canadian who had worked for the Saudi air force religious affairs department
in Riyadh and who was well-known as a TV religious presenter, said he belonged to the
communist movement in Canada and the United States.
“I became fed up. Basically I was searching for something meaningful,” he said of his
conversion 24 years ago.
Some US military personnel were exposed to Islam when they served in the Gulf war.
Philips manned an Islamic information centre in a tent at an air force base in Dhahran. In the six
months after the war 3,000 Westerners converted at the centre, 98 percent of them US
servicemen or women, he said.
They gave up alcohol but wearing Muslim attire and praying five times a day clashed with
military duties.
“You got out of uniform as quickly as you could land put Hijab back on,” said one convert,
Asma Markusson, a former US army reservist who grew up in Illinois wanting to be a nun.
As for prayers “I had to catch my prayers when I could.” (Abridged)

Story # 124
The Case of: CHOUWDHARY ABDULLAH, PHULAT, INDIA
01. I was born in a JAT Family in PHULAT. My father was headmaster of Primary school in
which LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI, the second Prime Minister of India was teaching.
02. I did my primary education in that school and then High School and Intermediate from city
schools. I was very much interested in body building and wresting and I won many competitions
in my village and city level.
My father used to take care of poor people and those in need. I also inherited the same attitude
of helping poor and down trodden. Then I fell into the society of bad people and made a sort of
gang. The people were afraid of us, but even in those days, I used to help the poor people and
those in need.
03. My temper was very high and that led to high blood pressure and other complications. I used
to take FORTE-1 injection, at least four to eight per day. If one injection is given to normal
person, he would go to sleep for 8 to 10 hours.
04. Once I went to a clinic for FORTE-1 injection, Maulana Kalim Sahib was also sitting there,
when he saw the injection, he asked me why I was injecting all this poison in my body. I told
that it is my only cure.
He said that if I accept his advice, I would never need these injections. I only need one month
from you and you have to come to PHULAT for that.
05. Next morning when I was still thinking about last evenings happening, when someone
brought me a small letter from Maulana. In which he told me about hell fire and what will
happen to me if I continue my present case. This impressed me very much and I decided to go to
PHULAT at the first instance.
I went but Maulana was busy in his outside visits, He came back after two days and was very
happy to see me. I told him to make me a Muslim. He said that I had become Muslim the day I
had decided to accept Islam. But this is needed fro confirmation.
06. I accepted Islam and he named me Abdullah, saying that this is one of the best names for
anyone.
Then Ramadan came and Maulana asked me to stay away from those injections for one month….
I fasted for the whole month and did not need those injections, after the end of month , I did not
get the urge and have got rid of that evil habit, Alhamdolillah.
07. Earlier I was incharge of the Local Hindu Extremist party SHIV SENA and had participated
actively during Babri Mosque movement. Now when I became Muslim, it was strange news to
my people.
They opposed me and implicated me into many false cases. But with the encouragement I
received from Maulana and my faith, Allah made things easy for me.
D. How I saved my Islam:
I went along with a Muslim missionary party for some time and learned Quran and Prayers and
other day to day teachings of Islam.
I had two wives, one of them and her two children accepted Islam with me.
My other wife did not accept Islam, after lot of persuation, I left her and gave her my house in
Delhi.
08. My brother along with his family accepted Islam and many members from my family also
accepted Islam.
When I remember how much I worked against Islam and Muslims in my earlier days, it affects
me very much. It is Maulana who advices me to forget the past and look for present and future.

09. I was thirsty for the true love and when I got it from Maulana, I became his slave. This is my
advice to all Muslims also.
They should treat their Non Muslim brothers with love and consideration.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of Sept. 2008

Story # 125
JOBAL (SALEH) EICHAN , PHILLIPINES
I was born into a Catholic Family. We had our own saint whom we used to worship and we
were not allowed to read Bible. Once I went to a Protestant Church and was surprised that every
one was free to read Bible there. So I joined that Church and soon got enough knowledge to act
as priest. I completed my degree in Computer Engineering and was looking for job.
In those days I knew nothing about Islam and had very negative opinion about Muslims. In our
local media Muslims were always refereed to as Terrorists and killers and very bad people.
It so happened that I got job in a bank in Saudi Arabia and moved to the city of Dammam. I
used to live with my Pilipino friends in a rented house. I had no desire to learn Arabic, because I
considered it a very inferior language and in the bank every one talked in English.
Things were going on like that, when one day, we hired a Taxi from Dammam, the fair we
agreed was Saudi Riyal 15, but the driver at the end of journey demanded 20 Riyals. I got very
angry and Told the driver, how can you behave like that when you believe in God and prey five
times!!! Immediately the driver became ashamed and asked to be paid 15 Riyals.
This event showed me that the driver was good at heart and cared about his religion. My
attitudes towards Muslims started changing and I wanted to know more about Islam. I always
thought that they do some worship of sun, because they prey according to sun cycles.
Then one day my Supervisor mentioned Jesus, I asked him “what have you to do with Jesus, he
is for us for Christians”. He told me smiling that Muslims also believe in Jesus and all other
Biblical prophets!! I was much surprised.
I decided to know more about Islam and went in a local book store to buy books about Islam. I
bought three or four books including one titles “Jesus not God but son of Mary”. The book gave
many quotations from Bible, I took out my Bible and checked the quotations, they were all true.
I then started going to local Islamic Guidance center and started listening to talks and lectures
there. There were many sub groups there, I used to Join Pilipino group.
After some time, it became cleat to me that 1) Jesus is not God 2) Bible is not preserved in its
original condition 3) Islam is right when it says that only God should be worshipped and no one
else.
When I got convinced of these facts, I decided to become Muslim. But I did not know how or
what. One day I decided to go to local Mosque for the FAJR prayer. I was standing outside the
Mosque and was not knowing what to do. One Sudanese knew my dilemma and he told me to
just go inside Mosque and do what I see others doing. I cannot express the peace and tranquility
I felt when I put my head for the first time on ground.
I did not declare my Islam to my fellow Pilipino, but was praying in secret. But it soon leaked
out and my friend started arguing with me and tries to turn me back. I told clearly that I have
accepted Islam after lot of consideration and after knowing that it is true. I had to leave that
house and shift elsewhere. When my Saudi Supervisor know that I had accepted Islam, he
became very happy and gave a great banquet in my honor.
When I went to Philippine on vacation, I told my parents that I have become Muslim, They were
shocked at first , but soon adjusted to my wishes. I soon met another Pilipino friend who had
become Muslim and was soon married to his daughter. I have two daughters whom I have
named SAFA and MARWAH. I try t spend my spare time with the Islamic Guidance Center in
Al Khobar. (abridged)
Story # 126
Ms Tasha http://www.newmuslims.tk/
Assalaamu 'Alaikum Brothers and Sisters,
My name is Tasha, and I recently converted (formally) to Islam on July 7,2004.I had been
studying Islam ever since I was in 7th grade. My interest in Islam began when I was invited
to iftar for Ramadan by my Seventh grade teacher. And ever since then I was hooked!!!
I was raised a Baptist, but like so many former Christians I never really practiced Christianity. I
rarely if ever attended Church or Sunday school because I just felt so uncomfortable there. My
immediate family was the type where we just went to church on major holidays. So I studied
Islam and fasted for the Ramadan while I was not Muslim (I knew that my fasts wouldn't count,
but it was my situation, perhaps that was Allah subhana wa ta'ala's will).
Then finally my sophomore year in high school I got back in contact with my 7th grade teacher
and I learned even more. I learned how to pray, I learned (and I am still learning) how to read
Arabic, and I had started reading the Qumran (Alhamdolillah what a glorious Al Khitab it is. My
favorite Surah thus far is Sura Yusuff). Then I began going to a dars in February (shortly after
Ramadan) that she (my old teacher) spoke at for girls 12-18 (which I still attend). Then I slowly
increased and I started going to a Lecture or Khutbah on Thursday nights. Then finally on that
fateful Tuesday I converted/reverted (what ever people want to call it)!!! It was one of the best
days of my life!!! Subhanallah!!! The only problem is that I haven't told any one because I am
truly afraid they'll either disown me or try to Deprogram me!!!
I had mentioned to my Mother that I wanted to convert when I was a freshman in High School,
but I had told her I'd wait until I was 18. And then My grandfather suspects something because
even before I converted I spread the "good news" if you will, about Islam and how it cancels out
the divinity of 'Isa (aleyhi salaam) and original sin, so he believes that I am brainwashed or what
not. But the kuffar are in truth rejecters!!! Then to make it even worse I have a twin sister, she
knows that I pray five times daily and that I go to the Masjid frequently and all that, but she
doesn't know if I converted or not!!! The only one that knows besides the other Muslims at the
Masjid is the Board of Directors at the library at which I work. I just pray that Allah (SWT) gives
me guidance and soften their (My families and my friends and my co-workers) hearts, Ameen.
Insha'allah , I will survive and increase in my iman.
By the way I am 16 and I live in IL.
Also I will be attending the ISNA conference/convention this labor day weekend and I hope that
those of you on this mailing list will be attending. And isn't it ironic that when Muslimahs wear
Hijab, or when for that matter whatever Muslims people see (no matter what ethnicity you are or
whether or not u have been a citizen of the country where in you reside) people don't classify you
as an American or as a Mexican or as a German, etc. they classify you as a Muslim
(subhanallah). But sometimes, in an Americans case they look at you as if you don't know how
to speak English properly and as if you are a terrorists and as if you are an Arab, ironic huh!!!
But never the less I am proud of my Muslim identity and insha'allah I will be able to be a good
image of a Muslim to the American people and insha'allah I will be able to wear Hijab proudly
(once I tell my family) not only when I pray but when I go outdoors too.
Wa salaam,
Tasha
Story # 127
The Case of: ZAINAB CHAUHAN, CHURU RAJASTHAN, INDIA
01. I was born in CHURU in a Rajput family on 20 th April 1968. My father was principal in a
local high school. I did BA from the city and was married on 6 th June 1990 in a good family of
MP.
My husband was NAIB TAHSILDAR and he had been a very good hockey player. In fact he got
his job due to his hockey game. We lived in RATLAM and MANDSORE due to my husband’
transfers. Then he was promoted as TAHSILDAR in Bhopal and went there.
02. My husband used to love me very much and everything was fine in our family and we had
two children. But all that changed in 2000 when my husband went to live in Bhopal.
There was a very handsome Brahmin girl working in his office. She was very hard working and
efficient. My husband fell in love with her, even though there was no sexual relationship
between them, but he always was lost in her thought.
03. He decided to leave me an marry her….so he left me with my parents and invited her to
Delhi to marry her. Since he was already married, so lawyers told them the only way out was
them to become Muslim and then get married..
They went to many places in Delhi, but no one helped them. Some one told them the address of
Maulana Kalim in Phulat. He reached there but Maulana was not there. But there was Muslim
scholar there who asked them to recite Kalima and then married them as per Islamic rites.
04. He also told them that they have to complete official formalities by giving affidavit before a
DM.
The girl told my husband that when we have become Muslim, we should also read about Islam.
She got some book on Islam and read them. The study of Islam opened their heart to Islam and
they became Muslims from their heart.
05. Later when they met Maulana and told about their story….Maulana told that it was very
unfair to your first wife, you should start working on her and start praying for her right with..
06. Slowly the news of his marriage reached to me, I was very angry and sad. My father initiated
a case against my husband, he was arrested and spend some days in jail. He got bail but he was
suspended from the office duty.
My family members made life more and more difficult for him….but his new wife became a
staunch Muslim and even started participating in Missionary activities.
07. They consulted Maulana and his wife told him, that now that she has become a True Muslim,
she feels that his first wife was a victim. I have no objection, if he goes back to her and divorces
me.
08. She phoned me a number of times and begged me repeatedly to come to Bhopal, so we could
solve the issue ourselves. Firstly I refused, but after some time, when Is aw no way out, I
decided to go there.
When I reached there, she told me about Islam and went on asking me to save me from the hell
fire…. She kept on working on me, till Allah also opened my heart to Islam.
09. I accepted Islam and I was remarried to my husband according to Islamic rites. She was very
happy for me and kept on congratulating me again and again.
Soon she told me one Friday that I have seen a dream that I am going to heaven….shortly
afterwards she fell sick…and died after a brief sickness.
It was strange that second wife is presented in a bad light, but in my case, she became a real
boon.
10. My husband was very much affected by the death of his second wife. In fact he told me that
he has now no more attraction left in life.
I am consoling hem and send him to Maulana when he feels very depressed. I have brought my
children back to Bhopal and then are studying in Islamic schools now.
I hope that they become Islamic missionary.
We have taken Maulana as our religious teacher and consult him on our situation and religious
queries.
11. It is said in Quran that “If one believes and does good deeds, Allah will make his earthly life
pleasant..” We have seen the truth of this Quranic verse in the life of my husband, his second
wife and now in my own case!!
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of March 2009

Story # 128
YOUSUF ESTES TEXAS, USA
Note: The Name of YOUSUF ESTES is very familiar to those who watch Peace TV. He is a
regular member on this channel. His imposing personality and his inimitable style of telling
stories keeps one spellbound. He was a Christian Missionary to start with, but now is an Islamic
Missionary. Due to his efforts, many persons belonging to various walks of life have entered
into folds of Islam. As per him they were all searching for the truth. He has many times told the
story of his conversion to Islam of Peace TV, an abridged version of which is presented below.
It all started in 1991, when my father announced that he is going to do a business with an
Egyptian guy, I thought it was OK to bring an International Flavor to our business. Land of
Egypt always had a fascination for me. But when he announced that this man is a Muslim, I was
very much Surprised:
A Muslim!!! Are we going to deal with a Muslim? Don’t you know that 1) they do not believe
in God 2) They worship a black cell in a desert 3) They kiss earth five times daily, I don’t want
to do nothing with any Muslim!!
But my father told me that he is a very good man and I should behave properly with him. An
Idea struck into my mind, may be we can make him a Christian!! Accordingly I decided to meet
him on a Sunday, when I was fresh from Church meetings, with My Bible under my arm and a
Cap with a bold Caption “Jesus is God”. Me with my wife and our two daughters were ready for
our “First Encounter” with this Muslim.
I had imagined him to be dressed in a long robe and overflowing beard, hiding some gun or
Bomb in his garments, but to my disappointment he was a small man with a smiling face and
pleasing manners. He met me with a sincere smile, I was bent upon to give my “Treatment” to
him
“Do you believe in God”, I asked. Yes he replied and I was slightly taken aback.
“Do you believe in Adam and Eve”? , Yes he replied “Abraham…Moses”? Yes he replied. Then
I went for Kill
“Do you believe in Jesus that he was Christ”? I asked, his answer surprised me “Yes” Then I
thought he only needs to be Baptized.
I took him to a café and we discussed (mainly I spoke) for a long time. I found him to be
somewhat shy and of silent disposition.
I told my father that it is OK to do business with me, then we traveled together many times and I
took care to turn on Christian Radio Channel, so he should listen about our beliefs, then it so
happened that he had to move into our house for a few days. Then it so happened that we had to
take in a Catholic priest also into our house. When I talked to the Catholic priest about Islam, I
found that he knew much more about Islam than any of us.
We used to discuss religion every day after dinner, my father had his KJV, I with RSV, The
priest with Catholic Bible and my wife with Jehovah’s Witness Good News. We used to argue
amongst ourselves, which is the better and more authentic. Mohd. Would just sit silently
listening to our talks. I asked him “How many versions he had of Quran”
He told us “Quran has no versions, every Muslim reads and memorizes the same Quran”. I was
very much surprised. One day the Priest asked Mohd. That he wants to visit the Muslim
Mosque. When he returned, we were very eager to know what he saw in Mosque? “Nothing
much, people came, they prayed and dispersed” I was much surprised, no Music, no singing and
no rituals?
After some time, the Priest again went to see the Mosque, when he came back after much time;
we were surprised that he was dressed in Muslim attire. “I have become Muslim”, he declared,
we were taken aback.
I thought about this, and I discussed with my wife. She told me that she also wanted to become
Muslim. Myself and my wife accepted Islam the next day… my father took a few months before
he also became Muslim. Both our daughters also became Muslim.
During my ministerial services I have met many Christian priests who told me that Islam is the
true religion. When I asked them why they did not accept it, they told that they do not want to
loose their jobs and positions in the Church.
This is short story of my conversion to Islam, those who want more details can go to my site
www.islamtomorrow.com (Abridged)
Story # 129
AMNAH, USA
Note: This story is converted from a third person narrative to first person to match with
other posts. The events are correct however.
I belong to a comfortable middle class family in Southern California. After graduation, I

married a Syrian Muslim student and moved to Syria. There I desperately tried to understand
Islam and its tenets.
I asked those around her about Islam, surprisingly my husband did not like my interest in Islam
and even rebuked me.
Growing up in America had ingrained upon me that various religions are in fact different paths to
reach to the same goal, a person chooses one that suits him, or he does not choose at all.
I found the literature on Islam in English insufficient and the translations of Quran seemed
baffling, the only way to comprehend was to simply learn the language.
The faith came slowly to me, I prayed to God that if He was true, He would make Himself
known to me. I realized that Quran indeed was an inspired book and a guidance for whole
humankind.
The next logical step was for me to accept Islam, but when I realized the responsibilities of a true
Muslim, I hesitated. I was torn between the desire to live according to God’s law and the fear
that I would not be able to do so. I prayed, fasted and even gave ZAKAT, but I felt that if I did
not declare my faith, I will not be held accountable.
After two years of Arabic course and another thru private tutors, I could struggle thru reading the
Quran with the assistance of dictionaries and commentaries. Gradually I began to understand
that we are just as much responsible for what we neglect to do.
At that moment, I was ready to declare my faith. I did not knew what would the ceremony
would be like, what the Imam would ask me, I tried to prepare myself for many questions… It
was so surprising to me that the ceremony was so simple and was over in a few minutes. I had
become Muslim after 12 years.
Since that time I have done much more study on Islam and have even written some books in
Arabic to help Arabic speaking Non Muslims appreciate and make use of guidance that God
placed within their easy reach….
(Abridged) Source:: The Islamic Voice, Bangalore, Nov 1996, p18

Story #
130
Testimony of Um Luqman
http://www.thetruereligion.com/umluqman.htm
Um Luqman, "Jesus(AS) made sense to me as being a Prophet"
Bismillah ir Rahman nir Raheem ( In the Name of ALLAH, the Most Beneficent, the Most
Merciful)
As Salamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu ( May the Peace and Blessings from
ALLAH be upon you) all in Islam,
Greetings,
This is my story of how I reverted back to Islam.
Revert is One who comes back to Islam. We are all Born Muslim, so those who stray and find
there way back, ( by ALLAH's will) has reverted.
By the time I was born, Islam had already been introduced to my family.
My Uncles, (maternal), had both accepted Islam, by the end of the Vietnam war. Masha'ALLAH.
And had given both of their sisters, my mother and aunt, dawah -- needless to say both of them
rejected the dawah at this time.
They were not too keen on the idea of telling their parents, (my grandparents-maternal). You see,
I came from a very strict Catholic background, and for anyone to convert to any other religion
was frowned upon terribly.
During my childhood, I always had the questions; Who was God, and Where did he come from.
Mind you those two questions permeated my thoughts throughout my spiritual journey.
Well, in the cathedrals my family attended, there were these Big, and Massive statues. Oh my, I
thought these were the most scary statues I had ever seen. The music was creepy and the
combination of candles and stained glass made shadows look ghastly. Then, I remember having
to light candles and go to confession, eat bread and drink fake wine (grape juice)...........
........All of this was very exhausting to me.
The Frilly dresses and meticulous and strategically placed bows in my hair, I felt like a porcelain
doll - and if anyone touched me or if I moved the wrong way , I could break. Did I forget to
mention that I went to 2 different masses, Spanish and English. The Spanish I could barely
understand ( parents wanted me to be western-so they only spoke English to me). And the
English was to difficult to follow, and after all of that, and after many years ; I still did not know
the answer to my 2 questions.
As I got older, things changed quickly, here I was about 8 years old or so and my aunt took her
shahadah (Masha'ALLAH), and I still didn't know what that meant at that time, only heard the
word a few times, here and there. And my mother and father grew apart, and we ( my mom and
I) grew apart, I lived with my grandmother
, who was still a Devout Catholic, and I still had the dresses and bows. <smile>
My mother moved to Georgia, and I was still in New York, going to 2 masses and going to
confession, the whole bit.
I got a little older and at about age 12, (almost a teenager!!, <smile> ) I moved to Georgia with
my mom, and guess what!........
She also took her shahadah, ( Masha'ALLAH) and still I didn't know what this meant. I was
devastated. My mother, a beautiful career women, a Muslim. Now, I know that she was the most
beautiful women that I knew back then, and even now.
I didn't know what to do. I knew One thing , I was not going to wear that head rag, as I called it
at that pre teen stage. My mother tried to force me to wear the Khimar (head covering) and the
long dress and the long shirts at first, then she realized the more she tried , the more I rebelled. I
even ran away from home to my cousins house, (across the street from my school) to get away
from my new Muslim mom.
As time went on, I develop my curiosity of, Who God was and Where did He come from ,again.
So, here I am at age 15 searching for God. I was away from my Muslim mom (living with
relatives again - back and forth to New York, visiting my grandma), and I went to a penacostle
church. I took the invite from a school friend.
I could not connect, so I kept on searching.

Now I was 17, had already been to a holiness church (all the "got the Spirit dancing" scared the
heck out of me), a Baptist church (to much singing and yelling, not enough preaching), and a non
Denominational church (finally found my niche)
I was "baptised" and saved!! At last, I was no longer a sinner and was a spiritual person, who
loved God and His son...................
But, Who was He again? and Where did He come from? And now He had a son, did I just realize
this?........
Back to square one. I decided to just say no to all the invites and not do anything, as far as
religion was concerned.
I had graduated from highschool and was in the beginning of my 2nd year of college ,when I met
a preacher, a very young one. Just 3 years older than me. He was at the "Other" University, one
for all males and it had a Theology program. Well, he gave me a bible, and told me to read
certain chapters to renew my faith in God. But Which God, hmmmmmmmmm.
I had been fed so much from so many different people, phew! I needed some renewal of faith,
but how did I know this was the way. He made sure that he was there to guide me, if I had a
question he always had the answer, if I needed clarification, he did it, if I needed some
upliftment, he was there. It came a time I accepted his invite to this little church he practiced
preaching at. I thought I knew it all, I had my Bible in hand , read it from cover to cover. I was
prepared for it all.
Or so I thought..........
....I froze, something would not let me enjoy the service, I couldn't get up and say thank you
Jesus (AS) anymore, I could not say Hallaleuah anymore. I got up and walked out, and never
returned to that church again. Let me explain, I saw something in that church, I dont know what
it was, but it was looking at me as I was looking at it. A few months after that, I had 2 dreams. 2
dreams I will never forget, Insha'ALLAH. To make it short, I dreamt that something was chasing
me, and I turned around and said something in a different language. it stopped and ran away. The
next dream I had was of my grandmother, (who had died, and taken her shahadah before her
death, Masha'ALLAH). I was in her house with a Jewish family, mother and son. My
grandmother was in the kitchen cooking, and I was speaking to this Jewish man, all of a sudden,
my grandmother left and this Jewish mother was cooking, (I was in a spot where I could not see
her), Well, this Jewish guy started speaking, what I think was Yiddish or Hebrew, and he jumped
up and disappeared, I was drawn to the kitchen and saw that same thing again, I started to say
something in that same language as before , in my other dream. And this time it didn't run, but
grew. I said it over and over again, until I woke up screaming. I had to tell this , it is very
significant in my reverting, (I think so anyway). Allahualim.
I decided once again, not to do anything about religion. I was going to pray directly to God and
see what would happen. So I did, and waited, and waited, and waited. I was now 23 years old,
had two children and still did not know the answer to those 2 questions. One day my uncle called
me , just to see how I was. I told him about the dreams, and to my surprise, what I had been
saying in my dreams was Arabic! I was seeking refuge. And I didn't even know.
Masha'ALLAH! All my Uncle said to me was seek ALLAH, go to him and ask Him to guide
you. He said this with such earnest, and he is an uncles I love so dearly, one that has never
steered my wrong, Should I believe him? Should I pray to ALLAH? ALLAH.? Who was
ALLAH? When my uncle gave me the answer, I broke down and cried. This was it, this was the
answer I had been looking for , practically my whole life.!! That night I prayed, to ALLAH.
About 2 years later, my aunt came to visit me, I was pregnant with my third child, and she asked
me do you believe in God, the One God, who created all mankind., ALLAH. I said, Yes. She
asked me what do u believe about
Jesus (AS), by this time I knew the Muslims believed him to be a prophet of God, so I said what
I thought she wanted me to hear and said, He is a prophet. She asked me did I know about the
Prophet Muhammad, I told her not much, and she told me all about him. And that is when Jesus
(AS) made sense to me as being a Prophet. I was intrigued. But still wasn't ready to make that
move. I had too much pride, I could not cover my hair. I couldn't go into a perfect religion, being
so imperfect. And what would my friends say? What about my job, what would they
say if I covered my hair?
Well, during this same week, my aunt and her husband visited me and my family again, we ate ,
we talked, and then My husband, (who knew a little about Islam) started to ask questions, before
I knew it. He took his shahadah! Masha'ALLAH.
I was still stubborn, and he never pushed Islam on me. Two months later, the day before my son
was born (3 out of 4) <smile> I visited my mother. She had company and of course, she was
Muslim. I spoke to the sister ,that I was fond of,. And she said to me, What is stopping you from
accepting Islam. Your family, almost the entire family, is Muslim. Do you even know about
Islam. I said somewhat, so she grabbed my hand, and I followed her to another room. We sat,
and talked, I found out that I did not have to be perfect or never mess up, or free from sin. I still
had some misconceptions. And By the Grace of ALLAH, this sister had put them to rest, with
just one conversation. She even told me if I could not cover right away, then not to worry, that all
I had to do was pray to ALLAH. And cover for Salah, and Insha'ALLAH, eventually I would
cover. I could not believe it , to accept Islam, ALL my previous sins forgiveen, wipe clean, a
new start?!!, Now THAT is born again.
At that moment, I wanted to accept Islam, I wanted to take MY shahadah. It wasn't anything
fancy, as I was used to in my previous ventures. My little brother, (a man then but still my little
brother) gave me my shahadah, Ashahdu illa ilaiha illallah, wa ashadu anna muhammadan
rasoolu Allah,(I attest that there is only One God, and His Name is ALLAH ,none is worthy of
worship but He, and I did all this in front of my mom, my aunt , and the friend. The next day my
son was born, and I had a peace that came over me, I still cannot describe today. I have since
then grown in my deen, and the knowledge of Islam, and can affirm, that Islam is the TRUE
WAY OF LIFE,. AL - Hamdulillah!!
Sorry this took sooo long, I became absorbed.
I thank ALLAH, the Most Merciful, for allowing me to be Muslim, and Insha'ALLAH he will
allow us all In Islam, to live , worship, and die as Believers, and Submitting Muslims, Ameen.
May ALLAH guide us all to His Straight Path, Ameen
Oh, I forgot to say, that I did wear my Khimar, shortly after that, Masha'ALLAH. And have
since quit that job, and now run my own business. I have progressed from just wearing the
khimar, to full Hijab, Masha'ALLAH.
Wa Alaikumu As Salam Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu
UmLuqman
Story # 131
The Case of: SEEMA GUPTA (KHADIJA), UP INDIA
01. I was born in a trading community in western UP on 3 Sept 1984. My father has a grocery
shop and is a very nice man. My mother also is a very nice woman. I have two brothers and one
sister.
I was educated in my city upto BA and then I did MA in sociology as a private candidate.
02. There are many Muslims living in my locality and we have close relations with them. One of
my neighbors were Mr. Khan who had a daughter who was my class fellow. I used to go to her
house regularly.
She had one elder brother, who was very shy when talking to me. He would never look at my
face and when I would talk to him, he would leave the house. I used to comment on his behavior
to my friend.
03. Once I said that this is Kaliyug, and that is why there is so much indecency in India and
world, and our Kaliki Avatar will come and set the things right. My friend told me, but he has
already come and she gave me a small booklet titled “Prophet Mohammad and Kaliki Avatar”
written by V.P. Upadhaya, a learned Hindu Scholar.
I read that book in the night and was very much impressed by it. In the end there was a list of
books recommended for further studies. I told my friend that I need all these books to study.
She gave me a small booklet “Your trust returned to you” by Maulana Kalim Uddin.
04. I read that book and I read it to my mother also. She was also very much impressed by that
book and asked me to get all the books. After reading these books, I started having visions about
heavens and hell and what will happen to me if I died at that moment.
Meanwhile, the brother of my friend, who had gone abroad for job, send me message thru her
sister, that if I become Muslim, he will marry me.
05. I got Hindi Translation of Quran, I used to read and my mother also used to read it. Till it
convinced me that Islam is the true path and I must accept Islam if I want to save myself.
I left my house for Phulat and I stayed there for one week. During that week I accepted Islam
and completed all official formalities to register myself at Muslim.
06. My absence from the house created an uproar and my family accused my neighbor Khan
Sahib for kidnapping me. Things took a very nasty turn and a riot was about to happen.
07. Somehow the elders intervened and asked every one to maintain peace. The news reached
Phulat and Maulana told me to go back and tell every one the truth. I was afraid as to what will
happen to me, but he told me to stay firm and remember what had been done to earliest Muslims.
I came back and told every one that I had gone on my own and have become Muslim on my
own. This got Mr. Khan and his family to be released from Police station.
08. My family members tried every thing to turn me back from islam. From threats to physical
beatings to attempts to poison me … But Allah gave me strength to bear all that and I stayed
firm.
09. My mother told my father that one Dr. from Vijayvada , who has recently converted to Islam
from Hinduism is ready to marry me. If we could marry them without any rituals…..no one in
the family will know it.
So the marriage was arranged accordingly and we came out from my family and the first place
we visited was Phulat!
10. Maulana was very happy to see me and told that he was always praying for my safe return.
He even said that he was guilty of violating a Quranic verse which prohibited Muslims to return
newly converted Muslim women back to Non Muslims. He asked me to pray for his
forgiveness!!
2. On Parents.
11. My mother was half converted to Islam when I was there, but seeing my trials and my
firmness convinced her to truth of Islam.
Later she convinced my father also and both of them accepted Islam, Alhamdolillah.
My husband has shifted to Delhi and is working in a hospital. He has also qualified for MD and
hope to start his study for it.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of April 2009

Story # 132
ABDUL RAHIM GREEN , UK
Note: Name of Abdul Rahim Green is familiar to the viewers of Peace TV. He is a regular
visitor there. He is a regular speaker about Islam on Hyde Park corner in London. He described
his conversion to Islam in following words.
I was a Christian, but I was totally dissatisfied with Christianity. In order to achieve peace of
Mind I started study of other world religions. After reading about major world religions, I found
that it is only Islam, which provides real peace of mind. When I started reading Quran, I felt as
if the verses are directly reaching to my heart. I got what I was searching for, and I decided to
accept Islam.
That portion of Quran which deals with the events of hereafter affected me most, when you read
about the description of Last day, Heaven and Hell, then you realize the value of this life, and
you know what is the purpose of your life in this world. These things you will not find in OT or
NT books. Quranic verses shake your heart and you start looking to do some thing about next
life.
Regarding the present condition of Muslims, I think that Muslims are now coming closer to
Islam and Quran. They want to adhere to Islamic teachings. I accept that there are some
amongst them who are inclined towards extreme and do actions which are against teachings of
Islam. But it is not correct to generalize all Muslims.
It is like wise not correct to say that there is no good in present day world, we do have large
number of Islamic thinkers, who have to find a solution to the present day problems. Not only
that we have to continue improving our condition and do not sit idle thinking about our past.
I would like to give an example for this, when Japan made the first car, it was very expensive
and was not reliable, It did not sell much in the world. But Japan did not leave it on that, but
kept on improving the performance and reduce the price. The result being now Japan produces
the Best Priced and Most reliable cars in the world.
In the same way if we have to show our position in the world, we should be ready to do hard
work and keep pace with the times.
Story # 133
HANNAN ABDUL LATEEF, USA
At the age of 23, I was a divorced mother of two and a college student. Because I had my
children at a rather young age. I was just then beginning to enjoy a social life (so to speak)…
One night I met these men who clamed they were Hebrews…part of Black Hebrews…they
talked about Abraham sacrificing his son Isaac and that the Black Hebrews and not the Jews that
we knew were the true inheritors of Yahweh’s promise… As I listened to them I knew there was
something out of place in their story, but I could not identify what it was exactly, because of my
own poor knowledge of religion at that time…
In order to contradict them, I went for looking for Torah in our college library… I could not get a
copy of Torah but many other books on topics of religion.. I scanned thru Apocalypse and
Bhagwat Gita… I had heard that Quran also would say something about that topic, but there was
no Quran in college library other.
Thru some friends of my sister, I was able to get a copy of English translation of Quran and
started reading it. I read as much of Quran as I could. I was immersed in it….This is what I
always thought and believed…what sort of book was this? I read and I cried…I read more and I
cried more…
That Saturday night I found those Rastafarian people and told them what was missing in their
story was Ishmael…the first born son of Abraham…they argued that it was Isaac and not
Ishmael who was to be sacrificed. I did not have enough knowledge to argue with them, so I left
them on their believes.
I had heard about a Black Muslim sect of Nation of Islam….but my study of Quran had
convinced me that Islam is not a racial religion at all.
One day, I had a knock at my door, and I saw a Muslim man standing and asking me if I wanted
to buy some cakes they were selling. I ran and picked up my Quran and I asked if he was
following religion preached in that book? He looked surprised but said after a few second
“Yes”.
Then I asked if he belonged to Nation of Islam…he said once, but now he was following true
Islam as Malcolm X did. I went with him to attend their meetings and finally in July 1979, I
declared my SHAHADAH in New York city Mosque.
I still have the same Quran with me and I still enjoy reading it regularly. I enjoy giving Quran as
gift to anyone who expresses any interest in Islam…
(Abridged) Source:: Saudi Gazette 12 Oct. 1998 p12

Story # 134
Zainab's Testimony
My Spiritual Life:
I have been enamored with God since I was young. Like many children, I would stare into the
clouds or stars and wonder who, what, where, why, and how was God. Trying to verify His
presence, I would set up quasi-experiments to find proof. For instance, setting a glass on a table,
and ask God to move it, to prove His existence. …
I was raised as a Christian, and as I grew up, I would go to different church denominations, and
ask the ministers (Imam), how they knew, for sure, that God existed. Now, I would think, that,
this would be, the question, they are asked most often, but as it turns out, they are almost never
asked this question, and even more surprisingly, for the most part, they do not appear to like
being asked this question…
I had other difficulties with Christianity. The concept that heaven can only be obtained through
having Jesus as your Savior, with good and bad deeds having no relevance in the scheme of
things, was an idea that always defied common sense to me. Theoretically in Christianity, a
person who sins all day, every day of his life, will go to heaven if he accepts Jesus as his Savior,
one second before he dies. The man that does all good, every day of his life, who does not accept
Jesus as his Savior in his lifetime, is sentenced to eternal hell.
One day, I met several Muslim sisters, and I felt an instant kinship, unlike any I had previously
held. Like myself, they did not date, swear, drink, and the long list of other common vices. It was
such a great feeling to meet others, with whom, I held so much agreement about so many
matters. I was surprised to learn that there was any other person on the planet so similar to
myself. I had no idea such a creature existed.
Since this was the second time Muslims had been brought to my attention, I decided that I should
at least investigate Islam, so I called a Mosque and went to it for direction. I was given a copy of
the Quran and so I started to read. Slowly my focus began to shift from Christianity to Islam. At
first I stopped teaching the "Christ as Savior" part in my Sunday School lessons, and opted for
morality lessons each week.
I did not discuss Islam with anybody because I felt I was betraying all my Christian family and
friends, and I did not even discuss it with my Muslim girlfriends because I did not want my
decision to have any pressure applied. Slowly, without my actually realizing it, I began to shift
my beliefs from Christianity and towards Islam. I
In the following month, I was overwhelmed with the sense that I was home. I felt that what I had
been looking for all my life had been found, and for the first time I was home where I belonged.
Often, I feel as though I was always a Muslim,
My familial response to my conversion:
The rude response however was difficult to understand, and very troubling for my family. Their
impression of Muslims had been the same as 95% of Americans, that they are crazy terrorists.
However, when my family met my girlfriends, they changed their opinion to a positive one.
Then, when mean-spirited brothers did their best to make my life difficult, they reversed their
opinion. They did this rightly so. I have not written here some of the bizarre behavior that
occurred because I do not think it will serve any benefit to Islam. Suffice to say, if anyone else
had been in their shoes, they would agree with them.
Looking to God for Guidance:
Some religious people get angry when I say that God guides me, and claim it is impossible. First
of all, the Quran begins by stating that we should go to God for guidance. Secondly, just because
they (the angry person) have never had this experience, does not mean it does not exist. It does
happen, and I will be happy to try to explain how to get started, as far as I understand it.
1. First of all, remember, that God knows every iota of our intentions. So, we must begin with
utterly pure intentions. You cannot want God's guidance for some reason or power, ego, etc. It
must be for wholly unselfish reasons. God recognizes the impure heart, no matter how
successfully someone might try to disguise it among the general public.
2. You must let go of all the things that you try and control in your life and recognize that God is
in control. I think so often God is trying to guide us towards what he wants us to do, however,
we are too busy, trying to make things go the way that we want, that we are not able to hear Him.
A good way to let go of our control, so that we can hear God, is to visualize a barge floating
down a river in front of you. Imagine placing everything you have in your life on that barge as it
floats away from you, to God. Image you have no say or input as to what happens to these things,
situations, people, etc., and honestly saying to God that you fully accept and embrace whatever it
is He decides to do with all of the things in our life. Even if it is the opposite of what you desire -
that is a very hard part. Imagine if He decides that everything is best for you, if it is the opposite,
of what you are trying to achieve. This is where you have to truly trust God one hundred percent.
3. Next, you must be still and recognize God and all of His attributes.
4. Next, you must be silent and still and just "be" with God.
5. You must not expect anything to happen, because it is the grace of God when He guides you.
However, if you do this daily, my experience is eventually something happens. Sometimes it
happens during the prayer, but other times it occurs while you are in the ordinary situations.
6. The thing that happens is that you will sense a strong direction of guidance. You have to learn
to distinguish between your own ideas and Gods. The way that I usually know that it is God, is
that His guidance is usually the opposite of what I want to do. For instance, since I am not a good
person, there are certain people that I do not like, and would not mind if they disappeared from
this earth. Sometimes, I will sense God telling me to go to them and comfort them. It is a
struggle because sometimes my only desire is to go up and kick them. I remember once I sensed
God asking me to pray blessings for my least favorite person on the planet. I could not believe it.
I was arguing with God saying, "come on God? Blessings? Can I just pray that he gets in a car
accident and suffers pain and becomes very sorry for being so evil." (I told you that I am bad,
didn't I?) Anyway, needless to say, He did not find that acceptable, so I pray the way He
requested. When I have a strong sense that I need to do something good that I do not want to do,
and this action falls in line with all the teachings of Allah, it is usually God's guidance.
7. The way that I confirm that it was God's guidance is that something significant and Godly
happens as a result. For instance, the day I prayed blessings for my least favorite person, he made
a dramatic turn around in his behavior toward me from that time forward.
8. Again, the key, is all in the honesty of intention. Your intention must be to behave in a pious
way, serve Allah and His purposes with no desire for personal gain. Again, I have many
interesting stories about this, but I want to limit the length of this.
Finally, I would like to ask for prayers from my brothers and sisters in Islam. I have found the
transition to Islam difficult and I have encountered a world of problems trying to do Islamic
work in the community. I would sincerely prefer a prayer more than a gift of $1,000,000. So to
anyone that sacrifices their valuable time and remembers me in their prayers, I will be eternally
grateful and appreciate.
Story # 135
The Case of: RAM DHAN (MOHD. SHAHID) ALLAHABAD, UP , INDIA
01. I was born on 4 Nov. 1957 in a Brahmin family in Allahabad UP. My father was head
master in a school there. I have two sisters and one brother, and I am he eldest.
I did my High School and Intermediate in Science from my father’s school. I did not get good
marks, so I did B. Com. I started working in POONA and after three or four jobs, I am working
as Production Manager in a company.
I am married to a girl from Benaras and we have three children.
02. In June 2003, I was going on picnic with my whole family. We had five seats and the sixth
was for Maulana Kalim Sahib. My wife and my children treated Maulana with respect and
spread his bedding for him and place his shoes properly and asked if he needed any help etc.
The train reached Delhi at around 8 AM and we had to change there for going to Simla. While
departing, Maulana thanked my wife and my children for their courtesies and said that he wanted
to give some thing in return. He gave me a small booklet “Your Trust returned to You” and said
that this is his visiting card.
03. Later when returning from Simla, we started talking about Maulana and how nice he was.
My children told me that what happened to the small book which he had given. I took out the
small booklet and my whole family started reading it.
I got so impressed by the book that I got 20 copied of it made from station and distributed it to
my fellow travellers.
04. Then I got some other books on Islam and my whole family read these books. We got
convinced of the truth of Islam and wanted to accept Islam. But no one amongst the local people
was ready to make us Muslims. We wrote to Maulana and he told me to come to Phulat.
We reached there on the day of Eid, Maulana was overjoyed to see us and told that he had prayed
to Allah many times to guide us to the true path and pay back for what we had done for him in
that journey.
Me, my wife and my three children accepted Islam at the hands of Maulana and he gave us our
Islamic names.
2. On Parents.
Both my parents accepted Islam, Alhamdolillah. My father has died and he was buried in
Allahabad in a Muslim graveyard.
My brothers and both my sisters have accepted Islam. And Maulana told me that two of the
persons whom I had given the booklet “Your Trust…” also became Muslim, Alhamdolillah
I am very happy with our new life. Last year I performed Hajj also with my whole family
and my father.
06. Most Hindus in India are very simple and they respect love and kindness. Once you can
show to them that you are kind to them, they will become your servant.
It is now upto Muslims in India to rise up to the task and show Hindus that they have their own
welfare in bringing Islam to them.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of Oct 2007.

Story # 136
Father ABDUL HAQ , USA
You would be surprised to now that this was the name which my Christian parents gave to me!!!
I never found any other Christian who had name like me. I used to discuss Christianity with my
Muslim friends… one of them remarked that I must be a Muslim, because this is a common
Muslim name. When I asked my parents, they told me that they had selected this name for me,
so I could mingle with Muslims and do secret preaching!!!
I joined Christian Mission and started work amongst Muslims, because of my Muslim name I
could join and go anywhere and could listen to their talks. Then I thought that since I have a
Muslim name, why should I learn something about Islam also, so I would not be ignorant when
any Islamic question is directed to me. So I took up study of Islamic books.
I was struck with amazement, when I learned that all Muslims, irrespective of their language, or
nationality read Quran in exactly the same way. This was unheard about Bible. Then I was
amazed at the way all Muslims conduct daily prayers in the same manner, irrespective of where
they live or belong to. Slowly and slowly I got convinced about the truth and uniformity in
Islam, which is so different from Christian belief and practices.
Then the concept of individual accountability in Quran prevent Muslims from doing any thing
wrong, whereas the Christian concept of Vicarious Atonement is a sort of encouragement for
Christians to do whatever they think fit.
So finally I declared my faith and Christian Abdul Haq became a Muslim Abdul Haq!!! I wish if
there be any Abdul Haq s like me in Christian World they should really become real Abdul
Haq !!!
Story # 137
S Why I Became Muslim?
SISTER Zainab Oñez Discovered Islam while training to be a nun.
Assalamu alaikum waramatullahi wa barakatuhu!
I am Zainab Oñez, 24 years old, single never been married, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in
Commerce major in Marketing at Holy Cross of Davao College Inc, Philippines. I was a former
Roman Catholic and I am one of the working Scholars in SVD or society Verbini Divini, a
religious congregation in the Catholic religion for 6 years. Previously, my plan was to become a
nun. When I was at the young age of 14, I used to ask myself why many people would have
debates about the Christian religion. I had realized maybe God has given one religion to all
mankind. When I reached the age of 20, I started to research on the internet and I read about how
ISLAM IS A WAY OF LIFE. And I was getting shocked, why was Catholicism not a way of
life? I started to research more about Islam because it was my first time to hear about Islam.
I printed all the Islamic research that I had found from the internet and showed them to our
professor. He was getting angry with me; why I was studying about Islam; Muslims are
terrorists; Muslims are bad people; Muslims worship another God. I considered this as a
challenge and was encouraged to study more about Islam. After two years of studying about
Islam I decided to embrace Islam last February 21, 2006.
Alhamdolillah, I am only one Muslim among with our family and I am now working as a
volunteer in Dawah Islamic propagation in Davao city. My entire Christian friends were against
me in my new Islamic way of life. I don’t care what other people say. The most important thing
is that this is my decision and I know that this is the true religion of Allah SWT given to all
mankind.
That is why I spend my life in Dawah for Muslim and non-Muslim area because this is the true
religion of Allah that has given to all mankind. The first big jihad for me is wearing of Hijab and
abaya but Alhamdolillah with the help of Allah I got my self-confidence of wearing in proper
attire.
Most of Christian friends say, what happened to you Zainab, you look like a ghost but I smile at
them, and say you do not understand what you are talking about and it is better for you to study
your Bible because even the Bible is very strict for the woman: If Christians read their Bible
carefully and understand their Bible, all of them will become Muslims.
I am now enjoying making my comparative study of religion and inshaAllah I am hoping to be

like Ahmad Deedat a good daeyah or preacher in our Islamic religion. Now, I am always hoping
to focus on study in Arabic education inshaAllah if Allah given me an opportunity to study in
Saudi Arabia inshaAllah.
Please try to correct my English grammar. I hope that you can understand because I am not
really good in English grammar.
Story # 138
The Case of: SHYAM SUNDAR (SHAMIM), MUZAFFAR NAGAR, UP, INDIA
01. I was born in a village in MUZZAFFAR NAGAR in GUJJAR family on 19 April 1984. My
father was a teacher and we belonged to an educated family. My uncle was a Govt. officer and
one of my brother was in army.
I studied upto High school and then left school and got into bad society. Soon we formed a gang
and did many petty and serious crimes.
02. Last year our gang fired on a vehicle in which Maulana Kalim Sahib was traveling. One
bullet his the driver’ hand and another just missed the Maulana.
My gang consisted of 8 people and seven of them were Muslims and I was alone Non Muslim
member. I had gotten sick two weeks before the firing, so I did not take part in the firing myself.
03. The news of firing on Maulana spread like wild fire and Police Officers vowed to catch all
the miscreants speedily. Soon all seven members of the gang were arrested and I went
underground for fear that I might be arrested any time.
04. After three or four weeks, when Police did not came to arrest me, I went to jail to visit my
gang members. They were very sorry for what they had done, they asked me to go to Phulat and
talk to Maulana and ask him to forgive them so that they could get bail.
As first I was very reluctant to go, both for fear and shame as to what we had done to this learned
and respectable Islamic scholar. But I had to agree when they insisted too much.
05. I started for Phulat, and there was rain on the way, by the time I reached there it was almost
sunset time and I was fully drenched. Maulana brought new pant and shirt for me and asked for
hot tea to be served to me. Then he went for his evening prayers.
06. After the prayer, he came and I told him about my friends and the bail they wanted. He said
that you worry about jail of your friends and forget yourself, about the jail you will have to go, if
you die without being a Muslim.
He then explained to me about Islam and gave me the book “Your trust…” The more I read the
book, the more I cried inside….so much so that I was eager to accept Islam at the first Instant.
07. I went to Phulat but was told that Maulana has gone on Hajj and will come back after one
month. I waited and when he returned, I went to him and accepted Islam.
He sent me with a Muslim missionary party for forty days and during that time I learned how to
pray and other day to day teachings of Islam.
08. Maulana was very happy to learn about my progress…..when I asked him about my friends,
he told that he will agree on one condition that each of them shall spend 40 days with a
Missionary party.
When I told my friends, they agreed and soon they will be freed on bail.
09. I asked Maulana’ permission to go back to my house. My family had thought that I have
joined another gang, but when they saw me in this garb they were surprised.
My father was initially very angry at my change of religion, but when I told him what had
happened at Phulat, he kept quite. I gave him the book “Your trust…” and talked to him about
Islam.
10. After some days, he also went to Phulat and accepted Islam , Alhamdolillah. There are very
few Muslims in my village, so Maulana has asked us not to declare our faith openly.
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of June 2007.

Story # 139
JOHNSON (MOHAMMAD AHMED) , USA
I was born in New York in a poor family. My parents admitted me to a Christian Missionary
school which was in a village far away from New York. They wanted me to become a Christian
priest, because they thought that a Christian priest earn a descent living, is well respected and
does not have to pay Income Tax. They thought that thru me, my family will be able to get away
from property.
The seminary which I joined was having all facility and we had nothing to worry. We had to
study about Christianity almost 10 hours every day. During this study, I started having some
doubt about the concept of God as taught to us. That was regarding the role of Mary, I started
thinking, why Mary is so much elevated in Christianity? Does God Almighty has some feminine
qualities?
Then we heard that Father Michael from Austria is going to visit our seminary. He was well
known and well respected in Christian Circles. There was hardly any one more learned than him
in these affairs. I felt very confident that he would be able to satisfy my query. When the
question time came at the end of his lecture, I raised my doubt about the feminine nature of God.
He just ridiculed my question and tried to avoid answering it directly. When I persisted in my
question, he told that God has many qualities, in some of which there is a sort of feminism. This
weak reply took away all respect which I had for Father Michael and I started having doubt
about Christianity as what sort of religion is this which could not answer this simple question.
I had same doubt about Christian concept of God when I graduated ten years later from that
seminary. When I went to New York, I discussed this point with Muslims and they directed me
to Islamic Center in New York. They gave me some books which cleared my doubts about the
nature of God. In a few months I learned about God which I could not during my ten long years
in Christian Seminary.
I accepted Islam and by Grace of God is busy in missionary work for Islamic Center. I think that
New Muslims like me have better faith and zeal than those who are simply born n Islam.
Story # 140
AMIRAH , USA
The first time I seen a Muslim was while I was in college at the University of Arkansas. I will
admit that at first I stared at the women in their different clothing and the men with the towels
wrapped around their heads and wearing night gowns. But the first time I had the opportunity to
know a Muslim lady that I felt comfortable in asking questions, it started a thirst in my heart and
soul that will never be quenched.
I was born in Arkansas to Christian parents…I was raised here all my life on a farm, where you
get up in the morning, milk cows, feed the chickens and do the rest of chores. My father was a
Baptist minister…the town that I lived in was completely white raced and all Christians.
So I had never been exposed to any other culture or religion. But I had been always taught that
we were all created equal in the eyes of God, and that there was no difference in race, color,
culture or religious practices. Later I discovered that this was easy for them to preach as long as
they stayed closed minded.
I will never forget her, she was from Palestine and I could sit for hours listening to stories about
her country and the culture. But what intrigued me most was her religion, Islam. This lady had
an inner peace around her, like no one I had ever seen…
My friend did every thing she could to convince me that Islam was the only true religion that
would take me to heaven and that it was not just another religion. It was a way of life.
My friend graduated six months later and returned to Palestine. She was killed two weeks later
outside her home. I was devastated, it was like a part of me had died with her..
After I left college and returned to my country, I did not have the honor to be around Muslims
any longer. But the thirst had never left nor had my love and desire for Arabic language…
Then in the spring of 1995, Allah brought someone into my life. This person was such a
wonderful example of what a Muslim should be and what Islam was about that once again I
started to ask questions. I was even taken to my first visit to Mosque.
For 8 months I studied everything he could possibly find me and read and listened to tapes.
Then on Feb. 15, 1996 I officially embraced Islam….
When I embraced Islam, my family first tried to have me committed to a mental hospital, when
that did not work, they completely disowned me. They did make calls to me to tell me that they
hoped I rotted in hell…Yes this hurts, even though my family and I have many differences, I
love them deeply.
The last time I spoke to my family was two days after the bombing in Saudi Arabia. My uncle
and cousin were killed in the bombing….my family called be to tell me that their blood was on
my head and all my terrorist friends…I cried for days, but my faith stood strong…
Then some one painted my car side with Slogan TERRORIST LOVER…during the night I heard
gunshots and they broke all my windows and killed all my pets…Police told that unless I give
positive identification, they are helpless…
Then I was once attacked in a Parking lot, I was beaten, my writs was broken and some ribs
fractured.. The town I live in is a very small and there is no other Muslim even close. The
nearest mosque is 120 Miles away…
I am not writing this story in the hope of gaining pity. I do ask that every one continue to pray
for me, and every one reading this story be rest assured that Allah will never let you down. But
the injustices and prejudices that we Muslims face in United states has got to come to an end…
(Abridged) Source:: Islamic Voice Feb. 1998, p22

Story # 141
How I Came to Islam
Abdul Malik Hamidullah , Operations Manager, Dallas Central Mosque, Texas
My father was a Jew and my mother a not very religious Christian. With this mix I started and
ended up taking first communion in the Catholic Church. I do not remember attending church
regularly as a child. However, I do remember that once when I was very young (perhaps seven or
eight years old) having a powerful experience in a Catholic church, a feeling that I was suddenly
very light; a feeling that I was being lifted. Although I was too young to have burdens, it was a
feeling that the "burden of the world" was being lifted from me. This was my first profoundly
spiritual experience. As one of my earliest memories it remains with me to this day.
As a teenager, I was really into the psychedelic sixties and all that came with it. I looked for a
deeper meaning in the lyrics of the Beatles, Cat Stevens, and the Moody Blues. I read
metaphysical books, some philosophy, Carlos Castaneda, and more. I attended a Baptist church,
and was even baptized one afternoon when I felt that powerful feeling again. I started reading the
Bible in earnest and found myself reading only the 'red-ink-words' of Christ (as). Still, the people
and the religion seemed to be lacking something that I knew was out there somewhere.
I continued to read and search. I practiced yoga, joined an ashram of Sikhs, read the Guru
Granth Sahib; I married a Muslim woman that wasn't practicing Islam and began living in an
ashram. Even though her father prayed five times a day, her parents did not teach her. [Hence,
she too was always searching for the straight path.] This was a good thing for me. Otherwise, we
would not have married and I would not have been placed in the life situations that I have found
myself in that eventually led me to Islam. At any rate, we soon left the ashram. Soon I went to
India, practiced Krya yoga, and joined SRF (Self Realization Fellowship). Still I always had this
feeling that something was missing. I continued to study Taoism, and Buddhism and other
religious teachings.
During much of this period, I was a Field Artillery Officer in the U.S. Army. After Desert Storm,
and a few days in Iraq fighting the ground war, I attended a military school in Pakistan for a
year. Of course, most of my classmates were Pakistani Muslims, and several were from other
countries: Malaysia, Brunei, Syria, and Bangladesh, to name but a few. I became a close friend
with two officers that were not what we would consider very good examples of Muslims [they
smoked and drank on occasion!] However, despite their shortcomings, I was very impressed with
them. And there were several Pakistani Muslims that impressed me even more. They were
devoted; they had strength and dignity, humility and kindness, and many more traits that I had
rarely seen in others in my travels. And certainly I had never seen so many people at one time
with so many fine qualities. I decided that it must be their religion that had made them this way.
I read some about Islam and discovered the logic and simplicity that I had looked for in other
dogmas. I was really struck by the fact that al-Qur'an was still in the original unchanged form [If
there is a King James Version, then I'd like to see the version published before that?!] And that
ANYONE could read Hadith and learn what the Holy Prophet [PBUH] would have we Muslims
do. One does not have to have a Pope, a priest, or a monk tells you what to do; there is no
guesswork; it's all right there! Hence, towards the end of my year in Pakistan, I told two of my
close friends that I would like to become a Muslim. They were astounded. Nonetheless, they met
with two more of our friends that were following the Sunnah a bit more closely than they had
been, and we arranged for me to say Asshadu anlaa ilaaha ilAllah... Four of us met, I became a
Muslim, and was taught how make salah. I thank Allah for that glorious day and the days that
led up to it.
There is a lot more to this, but the bottom-line is that: It was the kindness, humility, and excellent
manners of Muslims, coupled with the system of straightforward Islamic ideals and way of life,
which appealed most to my reason and my heart. This is why I am a Muslim now.
And yes, now my wife also practices Islam, as does our grown daughter. Even my mother has
become a Muslimah! Al hamdu lilLah
Story # 142
The Case of: VINOD KUMAR (MOHD. ASJAD) NEPAL
01. I was born in Nepal in a Brahmin family on 21 May 1980. I studied upto High School in
Nepal, but when my father died, I discontinued my studies. One of my relatives brought me to
Delhi, and I started working as a sales man in JAMIA NAGAR OKHLA, Delhi.
02. I was working in the General Merchant shop and a small boy (younger son of Maulana Kalim
Sahib) also went that route for his daily prayers. He used to ask every one to go to mosque for
prayers.
He also used to ask me to go to prayer (I was called GUDDU, which is a common name used by
both Hindus and Muslims in India). I used to say, yes I will come. There was one Muslim
watchman in a near by building. The boy would ask him to go for prayers, but he would not go.
One day I asked this man, as to why he does not go to prayer, when this small boy asks him
daily? He then decided to go to prayer.
03. After some days, the boy asked me, why I never went to prayer. I told that I am Hindu and
not Muslim. Then they boy told me that I was in deeper trouble than I think. How will I save
myself from hell fire?... he went on pressing me till I said jokingly, OK I will become Muslim.
He then recited KALIMA and I also recited it. Then he asked me, that now I have to change my
name also.
I asked jokingly, what is your name, he said MOHD. ASJAD, I said I will also chose the same
name. He said there is no harm in that!!
04. Then he gave that small booklet “Your trust returned to you” and when I read it, I realized
what is the purpose and importance of becoming Muslim. That night I dreamed that I am going
to hellfire …when I woke up, I felt scared and I started regular prayers.

05. Master of the shop was like common Muslims in India, when I started to go to mosque
regularly, he asked me why I leave the shop. I told I have to got o prayer? When I told him that
I had become Muslim….he got scared and told me that I should remain Hindu and I would create
big problem for him and his shop.
He then abused me, he even beat me, removed me from his service and threw my things from
the shop !! (That is a typical Muslim in India for you- MUQ).
06. I took shelter in a shed, I had resolved not to ask any one for help but Allah. I had accepted
Islam fro His sake. I was in the shade, when a car stopped and some one asked me, why I was
sitting in the shed. At first I was reluctant, but then I told him about my Islam and what had
happened.
07. He asked me to come with me and live in his house as his son. He was a trader in pearls and
other precious stones, I went with him and I completed my B. Com also.
I came to know that my old master, fell to very bad times after he chucked me out. His shop was
closed and then some bad elements took possession of his house… I prayed to Allah to forgive
him.
I got married to an educated girl from old Delhi. I am very happy with my wife.
Both of us regularly spend times with Missionary parties.
2. On Parents.
I have decided to go to Nepal and work on my relatives there.
Pray to Allah that He helps me in this task.
08. I would like to remind My Muslim friends in India, that there was a time, when Non Muslims
used to beat newly converted Muslims…..how come now Muslims beat some one just because
he has become Muslim..
How can we hope to be successful in this world and reach the peak, when we are so afraid of
facing consequences if some one near us accepts islam?
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of April 2007

Story # 143
ANNA THOMAS (AMINA THOMAS) KERALA , INDIA
I was born in a Pentecostal Christian family in South India. My father was a Roman Catholic,
but when he saw so many statues and figures in Church,, and the way they are worshipped, then
the way priests and saints are treated, he changed from RC to Protestant Church. He is now a
full time missionary of the Church.
I was also an active member of Church and was a devout Christian. I was a missionary and
member of Health Care Fellowship for Christians. It consisted of those medical people who
would work in remote places for propagation of Christianity.
During my study of Bible, I was puzzled a bout some of its teachings, Like Divinity of Christ,
His Resurrection after death, Contradictions in Bible, what is Word f God OT or NT. If both are
world of God, then why Christians do not act on OT teachings? The church teaches to have
simple belief and do not think too much.
Then the fact that Christianity is being decided in Councils and not on the teachings of Jesus
also puzzled me. When God did not allow Abraham to sacrifice his Only Son…then why God
sacrificed His Only Son Jesus Christ?
I was in this state of mind and knew nothing about Islam, when one of my friend gave me Two
Books “Muslim Christian Dialog” by M.A. Nabi and “Choice between Islam and Christianity”
by Ahmed Deedat. These two books caused revolution in my way of thinking. I learned that
Islam itself means peace and Muslims are not such as described in media.
In this condition, I got a job offer from Saudi Arabia and I went there. There I could see a
Muslim society in existence and I went on comparative study of Islam and Christianity in a
serious way. Despite books, audio video cassettes, talks with Newly converted Muslims helped
me a lot. One of them was Khadija Watson from USA who was working in theology department
in one of the American Universities.
After a long and careful study I got convinced that Islam is true religion. Its scripture is
preserved in its original condition and not like Bible which had suffered over the years.
I did not know how to prey or fast according o Islamic way, so I preyed to God to help me find
the true path. I thought that I will not be able to do one month of fasting as Muslims do, so I
tried a few fasts in year 1421 AH. I found that fasting is not so difficult as it seems and I would
be able to do it.
Then finally I accepted Islam in Saudi Arabia and Allah has given me strength to overcome all
problems that I faced from my family and friend circles. I am thankful to Allah that I am a
practicing Muslim today (abridged)
Story # 144
Why I became Muslim?
PROF. BENIAL (ABDULLAH HASAN) HEWITT, USA
I think if you visit any Church, you will find nothing but statues and figure. If you look at the
dresses of clergy and procession of priests, nuns and deacons….you would not see any spiritual
dimension there. If will be as you have entered into a temple filled with idols and idol worship is
in progress.
On the other hand if you visit any mosque, what you see will be rows upon rows of devotees,
clad in normal clothes. There would be no idols, statues or music and every one would be busy in
worshipping One Lord of Universe.
I don’t know if any reasonable man would not be able to notice the contrast in the two scenes.
I always had an attraction towards Islam, but it was not enough for me to declare my allegiance
to it. But the more I started to read about Islam from the books written by Muslim scholars, its
truth dawned on me. I could see the service done on humanity by the Great Prophet of Islam.
What attracted me towards Islam was its absolute Monotheism. Then I saw that Islam does not
only deal with spiritual matters, but it gives instructions for every walk of life.
Then Islam is free from narrow mindedness and treats with respect those who are non Muslims.
It was Islam which first taught to the world meaning of tolerance and live peacefully with people
of other faiths.
Islam is a religion of action…it does not encourage people sitting idle or renounce the world. On
the other hand, if you want to become a good Christian, you have to renounce the world. Not so
in Islam.
According to Islam, the purpose of human life on this earth is to enjoy everything what God has
created for him…but he should remember God and lead life as per His guidance. (Abridged)
Story # 145
Testimony of AbdusSalam Sipes
A former member of the KKK (Ku Klux Klan)
The Beginning: Early Life Trials of Clinton Sipes
I grew up in a dysfunctional family setting in the atmosphere of alcoholism, physical and

emotional abuse that came from my father. ..I began to imitate what I was being exposed to, this
process of imitation began unconsciously, it affected my interaction with my older brother,
classmates, teachers and animals also. Nothing was exempt from the sadistic outpouring of pent
up anger and rage!
At the age of 13 I fell into association with similar children but because they weren't as driven as
I was, I quickly became bored with them and I began to hang out with the young adult type who
welcomed my willingness to participate with no reservations in anything under the title of
alcohol, drugs, crime, violence and racism. …
I began correspondence with the KKK and upon my release on parole, I was a full fledged card
carrying hate-monger. For the next 3 to 4 years my activities were heavily involved in Klan
cross-burnings, media appearances, night raids of beatings, property desecrations, etc. My parole
was violated for possession of weapons and suspicion of robberies.
Search for Peace: Young Adult
This last violation of parole, at the age of 20, the search for peace began. I had so much rage and
hatred inside me for so many years, it was beginning to consume me from the inside out. I lashed
out at the prison staff in hatred. I had anger and hate literature, graffiti, drawings covering my
cell walls and tattoos covering half my upper body. I was not exploding, but imploding!
In a haze of anger and rage I found myself stripped naked in solitary confinement with not even a
mattress. Only me and a Styrofoam cup. I began to review my past and the negatives which
brought me to this point of reduction to the lowest terms.
While I was there my daughter was born. I began to assess my future. I began thinking of the
many victims' lives I had affected. I could see myself in prison for life if this past were to
continue into the future. I said to myself, "Clint, you must make a choice between this evil or a
future good." It was clear to me there was no future (of longevity) in this evil…
The Search for Truth

It began upon my arrival to federal prison. An African American offered to assist me in my
cosmetic needs. He said he was a Muslim and Muslims are commanded to help those in need. It
struck my interest to check this Islamic thing out. However, I was under the impression that this
was a religion exclusively for African Americans. I was thinking, no way I can become a
Muslim, I'm white!
Still I asked this brother for some literature on Islam. I found out about the universality of it, how
it transcends color, ethnic and race. It sounded real, pure. It began to appeal to me. This brother
invited me to Jumu'ah service, I was given a Quran, and as I read the translation I felt the purity
of it, and the truth of it. There was no hocus-pocus, no spookism, no mysticism, just plain,
simple understanding "Truth." When I heard the Adhan (the call to prayer) I felt a closeness to
God that penetrated my heart and soul.
After some research and study of the Quran, I discovered its total infallibility, no contradictions
in it.
There are religions based on believing in certain sciences, multiple deities, the religion of 3 gods
in one. I was a thinking man and none of them made any logical sense to me.
Here was Islam, based on the belief in One God, who created the creation itself out of nothing
and the fact that this book I was reading (Quran) had not one vowel or language changed in over
1400 years was a miracle in itself. Thus, I was sold on the oneness of God and the unity of Islam.
Christianity has and is still undergoing changes, in the Bible and in the Christian doctrines, and
cannot even begin to claim originality of the Bible which is read and taught out of today.
There is only one God and one Religion and religion is "Submission" to the one God. This is the
meaning of Islam. (
Note: : Clinton Sipes into Abdus Salam (Servant of Peace)
As you have read, the life of Clinton Sipes was one of hate, crime and violence, the very things
that bring about the total destruction of a human being.
After years of falsehood, half-truths, following others on the road, and then, from within a place
(prison) where more than one million people are cast away, the same environment that once
honed my anger and hate to a razor sharpness, was now the place where Islam greeted me and
proceeded to change me into a "Servant of Peace." Islam filled the spiritual void by teaching me
my beginning and end, has given contentment, a peace, a serenity to me these words cannot
adequately describe. My purpose is clear, my direction is straight.
Islam has through its truth taught me humility and the true worship of Allah (God). I had learned
that from Allah (God) we came and to Allah (God) we must return. Allah (God) created all
things animate and inanimate, microscopic and macroscopic, the finite and infinite. Nothing
creates itself but is created by Allah (God).
On the last day, it will not matter if I was black or white, rich or poor, powerful or weak in
power, nor will it matter about all mankind. Rather it will be about one's deeds good and bad that
an individual is personally responsible for and will be punished and rewarded accordingly. No
one can die or be punished for my sins or be rewarded for the good I may do but me. I am
responsible, I must answer when asked. I became aware of this truth and I declared openly,
"There is no god but God and his last messenger was Prophet Muhammad-Ibn-Abdullah-Al-
Mustafa. Thus, in essence, my life has returned to infancy where truth and purity begin Al-
hamdu-lillah!
In closing, the metamorphosis has now come full circle. I have found "Truth" in Allah (God) (all
praises to Him, creator of mankind, angel and jinn, all that exists in the heavens and earth. Allah
(God) (Whom all praise is due) has 99 names or attributes, one attribute is Salam (peace).
The creator, originator of the very existence of peace. There is no peace but the Peace of Allah
(God) (Whom all praise is due). I have found this Peace, I am now "Abdus Salam," the slave and
servant of The Originator of the one and only source of Peace...Allah, The Most High, Whom all
praise is due. (Abridged)
Story # 146
The Case of: NIRMAL KUMAR (ABDUL HALEEM), BIHAR, INDIA
01. I was born in BEGUSARAI, Bihar 23 years ago. My father was a Pharmacist and my mother
also was a Health Worker. I have six sisters and three brothers.
I studied upto BA and then I worked for some time in PANIPAT, now I am working as Drawing
Operator in SARASWATI SPINNING MILL, H.P.
02. My father was by nature a Muslim, he was very much against idol worship. I also used to
like Islam from my childhood. I was also against worship of idols and used to stop people from
worshipping something whom they made with their own hands.
I had seen on many occasions that dogs would enter a Temple and eat from what is placed before
the idol and then sometime they will urinate on the idols. I used to say, an idol who cannot save
itself from dogs, how can it fulfill the wishes of these people.
03. I used to like the Muslim system of regular prayers, whenever there was call for prayers, I
used to listen to it very attentively and I longed to go to mosque and pray with other Muslims.
In my factory there was a Muslim worker, who used to have full beard and he was very punctual
in his prayers. Once I asked him that I want to dress like him and grow full beard. He said what
will happen with only outward change of clothes, when from inside I am not a Muslim.
04. I told , how can I change from inside, I am born in a Hindu family and I must remain Hindu.
He said it is not so and he told me how he was once a Hindu and active member of Extremist
SHIV SENA and then Allah had mercy on him and he became a Muslim.
05. He took me to Maulana Kalim Sahib and I accepted Islam on his hand. He gave me my new
Muslim name. Then I went with a Muslim Missionary party and I learned about prayer and how
to recite Quran.
Then Maulana asked me to teach in the Junior High School in Phulat and I am enjoying my job
for past many years.
2. On Parents.
07. My father was very close to Islam, he used to like Islam and Muslims…he had more Muslim
friends than Hindus.
Unfortunately he died even before I could talk to him about Islam. Whenever I think, what
would happen to my father, I start weeping. Why no Muslim told him to accept Islam and save
himself from hell fire?
When I told my mother about my Islam, he encouraged me and told me that I did fine to correct
my relationship with my Creator.
I am hopeful that she will also accept islam formally.
08. I spoke to my younger brother who is Electrical Engineer. After three or four attempts, he
also accepted Islam Alhamdolillah.
I am working on other members of my family.
09. My request to Muslims is that now no new prophet will come and it is now their duty to
spread and propagate the message of Islam to every one.
There might be hundreds and thousands of people in India like my father, who are Muslims from
inside. They only need a formal push to come to Islam.
10. How sad it is to know that Muslims do not even got o such persons and tell them to join
Islam.
This is their religious duty….
Source: Monthly ARMAGHAN of March 2007.

Story # 147
CATHY USA
My story of conversion to Islam is very interesting. It so happened that I went on a sale of

surplus books at our local library and got hold of one book for a few coins that I had in my
pocket. I brought the book home, without even looking at it, displayed it carefully on my table
and never even bothered to read it or even go thru it!!!
I graduated from High School, in College I selected Arts instead of science and selected a course
that dealt with comparative religions. I was taught about major world religions, like Christianity,
Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism etc. None of my teachers were Muslims. I graduated from
school and went to job market. It was not easy to find a job for female arts gradate in a my
country so easily.
After a few months of trial I felt frustrated from my job search and kept to my room. While in
such a state, I looked again at the book which I had purchased with my own pocket money many
years back. I cleaned the dirt and I started reading it, It was about Islam and what more, it was
totally different from what my teachers were teaching me in my college.
This book was nothing but English Translation of Holy Quran. The teachings of Quran
convinced me that it was a true religion and must enter into its fold, I went to local Islamic
center and I became a Muslim, which was such an easy thing to do. I joined the missionary
activity and soon met an Afghan Boy, we got married and I gave my services to the local Islamic
Center.
Islam we think is a revolutionary and full of activity. It does not makes it followers idle or take
shelter from the world’s problems. I only hope that Allah accept our small services and make us
serve Muslims more and more (abridged)
Story # 148
AN AMERICAN MUSLIMAH (NAME WITHELD), USA
I am a 17 year old Caucasian American girl who happens to be a Muslim, not by birth, but my
own choice. I converted from Catholicism to Islam 2 years ago
I am mainly writing this because many Muslims in America feel that many of our fellow
Americans associate our peaceful religion with hatred and slavery of the women!
I can say that after intense research for a couple of years on all religions, I felt closest to Allah
(God) when I read the Quran and read about Islam, a feeling that Christianity could not give me.
That is why I converted.
I must admit that it is very hard going from ‘free wheeling’ typical American life style to one of
praying, modesty and spiritual freedom. Islam is a fairly simple religion, with a few rules, but
the rules you must follow as best you can….
As Muslims we respect and we believe in Moses, Abraham, Jesus, the Virgin Mary and also the
last prophet that God sent to the earth…
Sadly there are many false rumors about Islam, for some reason or other people tend to prefer
these false rumors to the truth..
In fact Islam is one of the first religions to give women equality…You may be wondering why
Muslim women wear the scarves to cover their hairs and dress in loose clothing. In the Quran,
Allah tells that girls past puberty should cover their beauty and body from men who are not their
close relatives….
Did you know that majority of Muslims are not Arab! It is a common belief that Muslims are all
Arab. In reality majority of Arabs are Muslims, but many are Jewish and also Christians.
Indonesians and South East Asians make up the majority of Muslims, and Islam is one of the
fastest growing religion in America…
Islam is not the religion of terror, blood or hatred of its women, but a thoughtful. Peaceful,
modest religion that gets us closer to our Creator, Allah
(Abridged) Source:: The Islamic Voice May 1998 p 22 bailyverous17@hotmail.com

Story # 149
Testimony of Adam Wilson
IN THE BEGINNING
Before learning about Islam, my only real exposure to any religion occurred during a hot summer
day. I was outside working in the yard when two shady looking characters pulled up in a 1970's
style black Cadillac. I only remember parts of their fast talking rhetorical nonsense. "The Lord
wants this . . . The lord loves you . . . The lord needs you to be saved right now. So what is your
name son?"
"Adam," I replied.
"Okay Adam, all you need to do is put your hand on this bible and follow along with me" they
continued.
I thought the situation seemed a little strange, but I agreed to the ‘saving ceremony’ to get them
out of my yard. It worked. These men were far too busy to explain what had just happened and
they were off searching for more desolate souls to save. What they didn't realize and what I am
thankful for now is that their actions actually prevented me from going to church. At that point in
my life I was searching for truth and was contemplating the idea of attending church to find
some answers. Instead the church came to me and I still needed some answers. A couple of years
went by and I eventually fooled myself into thinking that I was happy being agnostic.
I DISCOVER THE MOST IMPORTANT TRUTH OF ALL
About three years after the above incident I was delivering Pizzas in a small town located in
Northern Michigan. It was 1:00 a.m. in the morning and there was about two and a half feet of
snow on the ground. The sky was clear and the stars were glowing with a magnificent splendor.
Delivering pizzas is a lonely process and the loneliness often directed my thoughts to spiritual
realms. On this particular delivery I was trying to decide whether or not I believed in God. I
drove over a small hill and at the peak of it I could see the night sky in what seemed like its
entirety. At that very moment, I witnessed a falling star (meteor). It gave me the shivers one-
second and an amazing feeling of calmness the next second. The very first thing that I thought
was, ‘there really is a God.’ I had resolved the most important issue of all issues. However, the
transition from knowing that a God exists to knowing about the One and only God was still in
progress.
THE ONE AND ONLY GOD
My discovery and eventual acceptance of Islam happened over a ten-month period. I met an
American convert to Islam in February of 1997. We worked together and often discussed issues
about religious and non-religious topics. I was impressed with this particular brother because he
had a wonderful ability to apply logic to many different situations. In addition to this he was
young, married and had a child on the way. These are responsibilities that I had not seriously
considered and I respected him a great deal for his actions. After about nine months, I became
more and more interested in Islam. I knew that I had to take action but I was not sure which
action to take. My thought process was changing and my desire to learn more increased.
In November of 1997 I was invited to the Mosque for an open house. I did not attend the open
house because of a family obligation, however the brother was compassionate and patient
enough to invite me again that very same week. After going to the Mosque and speaking to
several other brothers, I was to the point that I knew accepting Islam was my destiny. The next
day I used my newly acquired prayer book and began praying five time a day. Taking the
shahadah (bearing testimony) that God alone deserves to be worshipped and Muhammad is His
Messenger, is the not the final step, it is only the first step. Today, my path to God continues.
IF YOU ARE A CHRISTIAN READ THIS
Does it really make any sense to say that God is a man or has a son made of human flesh? The
answer is no. And no dogma can convince you or myself that this is true. The ultimate truth is
Universal. It applies to everyone at any point in time. Remember there is no compulsion in
religion as the Quran states, "Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from
error; whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold
that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things". Quran 2-256 Consider Islam with
an open heart and an open mind. If you consider Islam to be true than accept and practice it, if
not at least respect it.
The only way that you can justify rejecting Islam is to say that it is a false religion. Know one
thing: if Islam is a false religion, then so is the religion of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jacob,
Joseph, John, Mary, and yes, Jesus. Why? Simple: they all taught the same concepts, namely the
Oneness of God, and they all worshipped God alone without making any association between
Him and others. They knew that their Creator stood high above all of His creations. That concept
alone is the first step to correct guidance. There is God alone, the Creator, then there are
creations, which no matter how numerous or powerful they may seem to us, have no power at all,
because all power is with God.
IF YOU ARE A MUSLIM READ THIS
Remember it is our obligation to show as many people as possible that Islam is a possibility for
them. The only way this can be done properly is to practice Islam with no exceptions the way
Prophet Muhammad (SAS) taught it to us. Do as much as possible to establish this religion and
to perfect the faith that is within your own heart. Allah (SWT) will hold you accountable for all
that you could have done, even if you fall short. May Allah reward all of you for your good
deeds and honest efforts.
Adam Wilson
Story # 150
The Case of: RAJBEER THAKUR, (MOHD. OMAR) BENARAS , UP, INDIA
01. I was born on 30th October 1939, in a RAJPUT family in well known city of BENARAS UP.
My father was a big Land Lord.
I finished my studies in my village, and did B. Com from BENARAS. My uncle was Professor
in Benaras Hindu University (BHU), he advised me to go to England and do MBA there.
02. I was already to go to England, but suddenly my father expired due to heart attack. I wanted
to abandon my UK program, but my mother told me that my father wished me to finish my MBA
from England. I went to England and finished my MBA and then I also did Doctorate also in
Business Management.
In those days, there were very few MBA ‘s in the country and that too from England and then
also Doctorate! I was soon picked up to be a GM in a Tata firm… but I was more interested in
Teaching line.
03. So after five years I got a job in BHU and I taught in the University fro many years. My
students have risen to highest positions in trade and industry. I retired from BHU as Dean in
year 1999.
I married a lady who had done PHD from BHU and belonged to a very rich family of UP. Our’
was a love marriage and took place after many years of courtship..
04. After my retirement, I got many offers from good companies, I joined as Advisor with
BAJAJ group. They wanted to construct Sugar Mill in MATHURA. In Jan 2003 I went to
Bombay to attend meeting and on return I had to see the factory site.
Instead of flying from Bombay to Delhi and then take a car ride to MATHURA, I decided to
board a direct train from Bombay to MATHURA. I was booked in AC 1st Class (Highest class
of travel in Indian railway, costing same as Air travel- MUQ) in August KRANTI
express…..when new phase of my life started.

01. I reached platform when the train had just started moving, when I reached my cabin, I found
that one Muslim Gentleman was my fellow passenger. After some time, we introduced each
other, He told me that his name was Maulana Kalim Uddin from Phulat. He told me that his
teacher was famed Maulana Ali MIAN of Lucknow.
02. I had met Maulana Ali MIAN many times earlier, so that made a bond between us. After
taking some breakfast, I told Maulana that I wanted to take some rest after my hectic schedule,
but now since he is with me, why not we should discuss about religion.
03. I told that I am very much interested in religion and I have met and heard most of religious
groups active in India. I have been to most of religious places of Hindus, Muslims and
Buddhists and I have talked with almost every big scholars of these religions.
04. But no one has been able to convince me and I did not get peace of mind anywhere. I told
him that whenever I went to mosques, I felt some peace and same sort of peace I observed when
I was in the company of Ali MIAN.
05. Then I went on relating to him my various experiences with Pundits and Scholars of other
faiths… I went on talking and Maulana kept on listening , it went on past midnight, finally when
I was finished, Maulana told me that he also wanted to say something, but since it was already
very late, he will say it in the morning.
06. I realised my mistake, that I should have spoken less and listened from this scholar more, but
it was already late. So I went to my birth and during night whenever I woke up, I saw Maulana
paying and busy in supplication.
07. When I woke up and finished my breakfast, it was only 90 minutes left to my destination.
Maulana started talking to me about Islam and what it stands for. He told me that I was already
Muslim by nature…what I needed was only a formal declaration. He went on pressing me, but I
said that I cannot take such an important decision on such short notice.
08. The train reached MATHURA and I was ready to get down. Maulana came to door to see me
off and when I was getting down, he gave me a small booklet to read at my leisure.
09. I got down, but some one inside me was saying that I should have accepted the advice of
Maulana …. When I read the booklet “Your trust…” my condition changed and I was eager to
reach to Maulana at shortest notice and ask him to make me Muslim.
10. I traced him and when I met him, I asked him to make me Muslim. He recited the KALIMA
to me and I became Muslim and he gave me my new Islamic name.
When I told my wife about my Islam, she was very angry. She left me and stayed away from me
for one year. But then she came back and accepted Islam. During that one year period she had
studied Islam very carefully.
My son and his wife and both their children who are residing in America accepted Islam without
much persuasion.
My daughter who is in France also accepted Islam and married an Arab Muslim there.
As Maulana used to say, that every child is born a Muslim, it is later that parents turn them into
Hindu, Christian or Buddhist. I testify to this fact and I ask Muslims to present Islam to Non
Muslims in India and elsewhere.
Islam is the need of humanity and Islam is the solution of all the problems which humanity is
facing.
PS: There is a small twist in the story. Maulana Kalim told that he always use to travel in 2 nd
Class 3Tier. He had asked his friends to book ticket for him. When he learned that the ticket
was of 1st AC, he refused to go.
But his friends convinced him that it is a travel time of 16 hours and there will be 3 VIP s in that
AC Cabin. If we could convey message of Islam to 3 VIP s by spending a few thousand rupees,
it is still a bargain. This convinced Maulana.
Later it turned out that it was Allah’ destiny to grant guidance to such a luminary during that
travel. Allah chooses His own ways!! - MUQ

Why We Became Muslims - Master - Vol 3 - 101 To 150

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Titolo originale

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Why We Became Muslims - Master - Vol 3 - 101 To 150

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Preface:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Why I Became Muslim?

BAHRIA AMANULLAH, USA

(Abridged) Source:: Riyadh Daily Nov 6 1998 p8

Why I Became Muslim?

Reverting to Islam: A Journey back to God

by Maryam al-Mahdayah (USA/Egypt)

My story is organized into different life-periods:

GROWING UP CHRISTIAN -- EARLY YEARS

TURNING AWAY -- TEEN YEARS

SEARCHING FOR TRUTH – TWENTIES

THE OPENING -- THIRTIES

COMING HOME -- FORTIES AND FOREVER