Ericka, It turned out that Muslims do not hate Jesus

Statement of a priest that Muslims hate Jesus, just look for the truth will encourage Ericka statement. Ericka search that brought the Islamic religion and finally decided to become a Muslim.

Mexican-American women were actually raised in a devout Catholic family. Approximately 2008 years ago, a friend invited Ericka came to church evangelicals. Since then, he felt fit the evangelical doctrine.

"They (the Evangelical congregation) are very similar to me at that time and helped me a lot. I understand many of their teachings, including the obligation to read the Bible. Although I do not always understand the Bible, at least I intend to learn and join the Bible class on Sunday , "said Ericka.

On one occasion, a pastor said that Muslims hate Jesus and Muslims worship another god called "Allah". The statement encourages curiosity will Ericka truth of his pastor.

"I was shocked, I met with some Muslims who were loved 'Jesus' as much as Christians. I also finally figured out that the word 'Allah' is Arabic meaning 'God' and that Jesus was not God as Christians believe, because The same Jesus also worship the same God as us, "said Ericka.

Since then, curiosity Ericka getting bigger. He sought information about the origins of the Bible and the compilers of the Bible. He found many contradictions and compiler-compilers of the Bible is not clear identity and capabilities. Ericka even find compilers of the Bible who did not even know Jesus, tap the courage to write about Jesus.

At first, there is denial in his heart to acknowledge that many of the things that made no sense in Christianity. "It's kinda sad to think that the holy book (the Bible) I am a holy and sacred, which for me is the words of God, there are many irregularities," said Ericka.

"I pray to God Almighty to guide me, let me see the truth, and led me to worship him without fear of any consequences," continued Ericka.

The big thing that still makes Ericka doubt is the question of why the Bible does not prophesy about Prophet Muhammad. He looks for evidence and found the answer: if the Bible contains prophecies about the Prophet Muhammad, it means that the Bible acknowledges the existence of the Prophet Muhammad and Islam.

Ericka was determined to be in the study of Islam. He read the Quran and recognize the purity of the Koran as the direct word of Allah. "I find that Islam is the religion of truth and logical, providing an answer to this life, and Islam is a religion of peace and bring us a whole to God," said Ericka.

After going through a long thought, Ericka decided to convert to Islam. Ericka is a Muslim husband, helped him to utter two sentences creed. After bersyahadat, Ericka felt a great weight on his shoulders instantly vanished. "I felt free, clean and full of confidence," said Ericka who then immediately put on the hijab.

Ericka lucky not to run into obstacles from a Christian family. "Islam gives me a complete guide of life, a chance to get closer to God. The opportunity to receive His mercy, a chance to live in the hereafter. Islam gives peace and providing street lights in which I participated," he said.

For those who are not familiar with Islam, Ericka advised, "Do not be afraid to learn about Islam, at least understand it and do not criticize it. You'll fully understand if you know about Islam, and if you understand, you will respect Islam. Keep looking and ask for God's guidance . "

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2:25 AM | 2 comments

Learning Islam Through the Internet then converts to Islam

He was only 18 years. He lives with his mother in a small town in the United States. Goodbye going on vacation and trips abroad, he flew to Saudi Arabia and declared kislamannya in the country.

"He's still here for a vacation," said Majed Al-Osaimi, director www.edialogue.org, propaganda websites visited by many Western public who are interested in Islam.

Speaking to Arab News, he said a teenager, who was studying in the United States, also accepted Islam as a religion only after talking to a daiyah associated with that website.

"The girl has gained some knowledge about Islam and clearing all doubts over the 20-minute conversation with our missionary worker and stated she wanted to get bersyahadat," said Al-Osaimi.

He said the site, which was founded in March of this year, has been instrumental in Islamize 119 people from different nationalities. Now they keep in contact with new Muslims to do online tutoring.

He predicts, the number will increase rapidly, given the current response of the virtual congregation. "Every one or two days, there is one person who accepted Islam as their religion through our website," he explained.

Al-Osaimi also asked other Muslims in the West to teach their children about Islam at an early age. "That's their job to take her children on the basis of Islamic culture and traditions," he said.
He said he also had contacted the girl and discovers that he has learned a lot about Islam from a different source.

"He asked some very important questions about Islam," he added. The girl also wants to learn Arabic to read and understand the Koran in the original.

He said they are nationals of India are the majority of new converts who declared his Islam through a website based in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

He explained that the site is run by 11 staff all of whom are volunteers and full-time workers. Those who embraced Islam through this site are from Britain, France, Australia, North America, the Philippines, Romania, Nigeria, and Cameroon.

More than 90 thousand people so far have participated in their web chat room.

"We have plans to expand the web sites included in the various languages," he said.

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2:22 AM | 1 comments

Na Peng An, Why is Islam so despised?!

If I think, the way my life was truly unique and winding. Therefore, before deciding to choose Islam - even now a dai-me is the most hostile to Islam and Muslims. My attitude was formed because of my education taught it when sitting in the sixth grade elementary school owned by a Catholic foundation, I've seen the attitude of the teachers who are less sympathetic, and even tended to suppress the Muslim students.

I was born August 28, 1962 and Chinese father and mother came and Ketanggungan, Brebes, Central Java. As usual the Chinese, my father was a Confucian Buddhist. Meanwhile, my mother is a native Java and many practicing Muslims abangan Javanese tradition. That's why I've got two names. By my father named Peng An Na. Meanwhile, my mother gave me the name of Agus Slamet. I myself prefer the name of the mother.

Since elementary school, I've attended two. Catholic elementary school in the morning D ***** (edited). lunch in elementary school while the Hokkien Mandarin (now SD Unity in Diversity). Both the Five Bridge area, West Jakarta.

Although my father Buddhist, but because he died when I was just 9 years old, then the teaching of the most widely Katoliklah affect my childhood. In Catholic primary school that I even included a child who stands out, so that when sitting in fourth grade (age 10 years), I've become pastor of children. My task of telling a story the story of the apostles according to the version of the Gospel to children grade I to grade III in Sunday school or a special service for children.

Because that's my talent, when in my elementary school class V in sekolahkan at a special school for future pastors in the area Cibubur, East Jakanta course with guaranteed free tuition, pocket money, even the guarantee of grade and graduated EBTA (exams).

In special schools, in addition to getting the deepening of the Gospel, we are also trained in martial arts with strict military discipline. Meanwhile, for the tasks of society we are taught how to influence people to support the program of Christianization. For example with ohahraga and artistic approach to the Muslim youth, and social benefits to the poor Muslim communities.

During the special school that I live in the dorms. Practically, I do not follow the lessons in class. Only occasionally come in, if any test or tests. But, as I alluded to earlier, I graduated EBTA with an average value. In sixth grade this school, Muslim students get the pressure to come to church every Sunday with the threat of not graduating EBTA for a no-show.

After graduating from elementary school, I was schooled in the Catholic Junior High School ** T ****** V (edited) in road planning. Mas Mansyur, Tanab Abang, Central Jakarta. Meanwhile, at the same time I lived in a dorm chaplain candidate school. The lesson I received was increasing. We, the students sekolab particular, in addition to continue to follow peridalaman Gospel, are also taught how to destroy the religion of Islam with the Islamic way of life overhaul the attitude of the Muslims. Especially, creating moral decadence among young Muslims. And the most powerful way, through the marriage. We are men told to marry Muslim girls. Meanwhile, the woman was told to marry a Muslim youth

Running Of Duty.
But one thing, there was something strange in me. Unlike my friends the other, so just swallow a doctrine that provided the teachers in special schools, I just always think about it. In fact, rarely do I not asking critical questions, both concerning the understanding of the Gospel and the moral destruction of the strategy of the Muslims.

Deepening of the whole Gospel and detail, leading to increasingly open my horizons. I found many irregularities and peculiarities in the Gospels, both related editorial and content. In terms of radaksi, between the Gospel and the Gospel of the other one occurred editorial differences are sometimes very sharp.

One thing that puzzles me, why the gospel is believed to be the word of God revised (corrected, repair) a few times, so in the Bible there is the New Testament teachings rectify the Old Testament? if so, where authenticity and originality of the Gospel?

All the weirdness that I have found that I always check with the pastor that guides us. But the answer I get is always unsatisfactory, since only the priest in question based on reason alone, not to mention a clear gospel propositions.

I also ask why the Muslims dianjurkean circumcised (circumcision) and eating pork is forbidden by the priest answered babwa Muslims do not give thanks to God. The reason, why the genitalia (penis) that was created completely by God to be cut (removed)? including pork, why do something that has been provided by God for human beings should be forbidden? However, the reason was delivered only by reason alone, without any concrete proof the Bible. I'm really disappointed.

Including attempts to destroy the morale of the Muslims did not escape from the target of my question. I am sometimes surprised and confused myself, why is religion that teaches love of fellow creatures God has a deep hatred to Islam?

All the awkwardness and strangeness of it have a very strong impression of an impression on my soul that would change my way of life. Since the onset of a prolonged conflict, it occurred to me the spiritual gap. I have no trust anymore with the truth of the Bible. I'm really disappointed in the gospel during which I consider to be scripture.

Climax and all that, I resigned and special schools. As a result, all guarantees and facilities that I get for it, be revoked. The year was 1976, when the end of the class I and class rise. When the distribution of report cards rise, my dad came out junior Van Tarsius it. I decided to change schools. As a consequence, I have to think about school fees. Whereas, previously was free. Luckily there is an acquaintance of mine who became head of the Madrasah Elementary school (elementary level) will receive my teaching in the schools they lead. When I was a Catholic. I am assigned to teach mathematics and social studies subject areas. That's how I pay my pendidilcan in junior high school and then graduated from high school until 1980.

Islamic glance
Between the years 1976-1980, I actually have no beliefs anymore. I've been frustrated with the Catholics. I've never again flipping through the Gospel. In my heart, is not adalagi bond that connects between me and the church.

But in line with that, the atmosphere when I attended a special school education as future pastors reoccur. Still fresh in my memory, how we got the doctrine of the righteousness of Christ that can not be denied but to swallow.

But in between all that, the most disturbing my mind, why are they so hate Islam? Why is Islam so despised, so that the necessary strategies and tactics to destroy it? Because the questions that I begin to look to Islam. What's wrong with Islam? What strengths do you have so that he regarded Islam as a threat?

At that time I just graduated from high school. To answer the heart's desire, I must mempelajani Islam first. Because, I do not want to be fooled twice. I feel cheated chose Catholicism as a religion, because do not go into first.

Incidentally, not far from my house lived an ex-Qari in the 50s named H. Gamal Abdul Ghani. To him, I said that I wanted to study Islam. No half-hearted I want to learn Islam from scratch, start and learn the Arabic alphabet (A1-Qur'an), theology (tawhid), including peribadatannya (Islamic Jurisprudence).

Initially H. Abd. Ghani objected, claiming I had not said two sentences alias still pagan creed. But I told him that I would convert to Islam if I had really believed it. Above considerations, I received akhirya became his disciple.

It was the end of 1980. In addition, I also often berkunjungkepada famous scholars, such as KH Abdullah Syafii (deceased) and Abah Anom in Tasikmalaya, West Java. In fact, every recitation in mosques famous I never miss to attend. At that time, none of the pilgrims who attended know there is a non-Muslims join the Koran with them.

From some of the lectures I attended, I was able to assess that Islam is a religion of a rational and open to dissent. Although the understanding of the Muslims in general are divided into 3 groups: traditional, moderate, and fundamentals. However, in a matter of principle (principal) remains intact, that is godless Allah and believe in one holy book the Qur'an as a priest (pernbimbing, way of life).

Less kebih five years I studied Islam and several teachers representing the three groups of such understanding. In addition, to broaden the horizon I always read books about Islam. Anyway, there sebap more money, I always buy books about Islam.

The odyssey to find the ultimate truth is, I just get the answer. And, the answer exists only in Islam. Among the attraction of Islam is so memorable to me is the concept of strict and simple deity (monotheism), the authenticity of the Qur'an as scripture, worship procedures are flexible and simple.

Having had enough material to make choices, then in early 1985, officially before the congregation of a mosque in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, I say the pledge dun sentence bawab creed in my guidance of two teachers, H. Abdul Ghani and H. Ali. A week later, my mother returned perfecting his Islam by uttering two sentences creed.

I am grateful to be able to directly guide him praying. Now, I live happily with his wife and 3 children. In addition to trying and doing business, I am also active in preaching through the umbrella organization PITI (Pembina Iman Tauhid Islam).

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3:05 AM | 0 comments

Sharon, Deaf are Finding the Truth of Islam

His name is Sharon. He was born deaf. His father served as a soldier in the Armed Forces of Australia. Their families a warm and democratic. Also concerned with education.

Despite its many limitations on his hearing, he went smoothly in special schools. He was also hanging out with friends his age. On the way to school that is, his heart enlightened. He tells of wal first became acquainted with Islam:

"When I was 13 years old, when I went to school, I see Muslim girls wearing headscarves and tuna runguku friend said," It's too hot! Why do they wear like that! "

I said to my friend, "Shut up! That's their culture!"

I grew up in an environment where some neighbors are Muslim. I remember, on certain days I see so many women who wear hijab. I often wondered how they could be like that.

Since then, I started studying other religions, other religions kuanut. But I can not think of Islam. Some friends laughed at me, when they know I'm finding out about Islam and I was trying to become Muslim,

They thought I was crazy. But I ignore it.

One day, I went to the mosque in Lakemba. I say the sentence I became Muslim creed. But because I was a new Muslim, I am afraid to wear the hijab.

Until then, I feel steady and veiled. Oh yes, the veil to protect me from the shock of my parents for my religious choice. Yes, without me saying, they know I'm a Muslim. Thank God, they accept and agree.

Instead, my friends actually shocked and changed after I became Muslim. Especially, look at the clothes I wear.

I continue to learn the religion, learning ablution and prayer.

Another day, a few people ask me Runa hearing so many questions about the hijab, they say like: what color your hair? or why do you cover? But to me, is an important question which I have to explain to them. You know, most of the deaf do not understand about Islam as a normal person.

I am always happy to explain about Islam. Alhamdulillah, the growth of my faith like a flower and I have learned about God's guidance to the right path. This year I became a Muslim eight.

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3:55 PM | 1 comments

Professor Jeffrey Lang, Discover Hidayah through Mediation His students

Professor of mathematics who choose no religion, aka atheist is ultimately prefer Islam as the final pihan

Travel everyone to Islam and have a diverse way Prof. Jeffrey Langkeunikan respectively. As Prof. Jeffrey Lang, keislamnnya story is unique and interesting. Professor of Mathematics received a guidance through the medium of coaching students on the campus of the University of San Francisco, USA. He was rewarded with a copy of the Qur'an he claimed as a holy book was amazing. One day, unexpectedly he found a small room in the basement of a church near campus. Apparently the room was used by students of Islam to pray five times. Well, in the small room he finally bersyahadah anyway. Here's the full story.

Prof. Dr. Jeffrey Lang, his full name. Everyday he worked as a lecturer and researcher in Mathematics at the University of Kansas, one of the leading universities in the United States. Master's and doctoral degrees from Purdue University mathematician he achieved in 1981. Prof. Jeffrey was born into a Roman Catholic Saxon family in Bridgeport, Connecticut on January 30, 1954.

Basic education up to secondary school served in the Roman Catholic background. "Nearly 18 years of childhood spent in school background in Catholicism. During that time I left a lot of unanswered questions about God and the philosophy of Christianity," he said.

Jeffrey, in his diary about his journey to find Islam, writes: "Like most other children in the range of the 1960s until the early 1970s, I passed a childhood full of fun. The difference in those days I've started a lot to wonder about the value -the value of life, be it political, social and religious. I even fights with many people, including leaders of the Catholic church. "

Adolescence, at the age of 18, Prof. Jeffrey admitted that he had become an atheist alias no longer believe in the existence of god. "If God exists, and He has mercy and compassion, then why is there so much suffering on this earth? Why did he not just put us all into syurga? Why would he create people on this earth with many suffering ? " Jeffrey Young story about her anxiety at the time. Over the years, questions like that keep his mind clung.

Meet Muslim students

Finally Prof. Jeffrey get an answer early in the city of San Francisco. The story, when he was appointed as an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics, University of San Francisco. Jeffrey found a real God does exist and in this life. But how did he find it? It turns out the instructions it gets from some students who are Muslims!

"When first lectured at the University of San Francisco, I met a Muslim student who took a course of Mathematics. Neither directly familiar with this student, as well as their families. Religion, as it would not become the topic of our conversation, until one when I was given a gift a holy book the Koran, "his story.

Mahmoud Qadeel, the name of the student. He is from Saudi Arabia. Mahmoud, Prof. Jeffrey's story, has given him a lot of input on matters of Islam. Interestingly, all of their discussions concerned with science and technology. "I had discussions with Mahmoud about medical research and he replied with perfect. His English is also not playing. I made was struck by Mahmoud, who in his country was a major police," continued Prof.. Jeffrey amazed.

Quran prizes

Once, last farewell. All faculty and students attended the event held at a place outside the campus. "I was really surprised when Mahmoud gave me a gift a copy of the Koran. Mahmoud also presented me with several books on Islam," said Prof. Jeffrey.

On his own initiative, he studied the Koran's contents. Even Islamic books are read to its conclusion. He admitted impressed with the Qur'an. The first two volumes of the Koran that had learned had made him like a hypnotized.

"Every night comes a wide range of questions in me. But somehow I found the answer right away the next day. As if anyone reads my mind and write it in every line of the Koran. I seemed to find myself in each page of the Koran ...," said Jeffrey again.

Bersyahadah on Campus

"About a 80-year yet many Muslim students who study at the University of San Francisco. It can meet with Muslim students are very surprise," I Prof. Jeffrey.

There is an interesting story when he was browsing the campus, unexpectedly I found a small room in the basement of a church. "Apparently the room was worn by some Muslim students to pray five times," he continued again.

His head was filled with question marks and curiosity bubbling. He also hasten to enter into the prayer place. At that time fitting in. noon prayer time and he was invited to participate in prayer by his students. He was standing right behind one of the students and follow his every move. The tears were seen trickling.

"We discussed the issue of religion. Bertanyaan I express all that had been stored in my head. And, amazingly, I was really shocked with the way they explain. It makes sense and is easy to digest. Apparently the answer is there in Islam," said him. "You know, after leaving the mushallah, I have to say two sentences Shahadah!," Said Prof. Jeffrey.

Why do we pray, Father?

Prof. Jeffrey regularly pray five times a day and feel the incredible peace of soul. Morning prayers, as he acknowledges, is one of a very beautiful ritual in Islam and he felt a deep impression of the dawn prayer.

One day Jeffrey was asked by Jameelah, his daughter who was then eight years old, after he prayed Noon. "Dad, why should we pray?" Said his son innocently.

"I was stunned by the question. I really do not think an eight-year-old child would ask such a question. Want to tell him how the advantages and pleasures of prayer. But what could she understand? Finally I said that we pray because God commands it," said the professor.

"But father, what can we gain by praying?" Asked the boy again was still curious. "My son, it is still difficult for you to understand. One day, if you're already committed and with the five daily prayers, my father was sure you would have get the answer, "said Prof. Jeffrey wise.

"Is prayer can make us happy father?." Jameelah little further.

"My dear, prayer is one of sedative soul. Once we come into contact with the love of God in prayer, then that's great pleasures. One time, after tired after work, fathers feel tired all the flavor is lost when his prayers," he added more convincing of the child.

That's the story of the professor who also picked up a nice career in mathematics. He was deeply inspired by mathematics. "Mathematics is logical and contains the facts of real data to get a concrete answer," he said.

"With the way that I work. Sometimes I'm frustrated when looking for something but did not get a concrete answer. Islam, for me, everything is rational, sensible and easy to digest," he said.

Prof. Jeffrey is currently appointed by the faculty as a mentor organization in order to bridge the Muslim Students Association of Muslim students with the university. Not only that, he was even appointed to deliver courses to Islam by the Rectorate.

Prof. Jeffrey married to a Saudi Arabian woman named Raika 1994. They have three baby that is Jameelah, Sarah and Fattin. Jeffrey is also the author of the book is reliable. Besides hundreds of scientific articles in mathematics, he also has written several books on Islam as the reference the American Muslim community. "Even Angels Ask: A Journey to Islam in America" ​​is one of the best books sellernya. In the book he was writing the story of his spiritual journey to embrace Islam.

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2:16 PM | 2 comments

Burns, Alhambra Mosque Calligraphy escorted Become A Muslim

"I was sitting in the Mosque of the Alhambra, Spain, staring at beautiful terukira writing on the walls. The most beautiful writing I've ever seen. I then asked people about 'what language is it?" they replied that it was Arabic, "Karima Burns recalls when she first known writings in Arabic.

Arabic script was first seen Burns was very impressive in his heart. Until the next day, when the tour guide asked about choice of language travel guide books he wanted, with a steady Burns said he wanted a guidebook written in Arabic.

"Arabic? Do you speak Arabic," said the guide would like to know

"No. Can you also give me a copy of an English version?" Burns said.

At the end of the trip the tour, Burns took "souvenirs" a bag full of books guides the places she visited in Spain. everything is in Arabic. So many, Burns to give her clothes to others so that those books could get all into her bag. For him, books of Arabic-speaking tour guides are like gold is more valuable than her clothes. He opened the books every night and admired the writings of Arabic in page after page.

"I fantasize could write a beautiful article and I started thinking there must be something valuable from a culture that has a very artistic language. I am determined to learn discuss this once I start college in the fall," said Burns.

Two months before the lecture begins, Buns left his family in Iowa and went to Europe, alone. Age when it was only 16 years old. "I want to see the world before entering college at the University Northewestern. That's what I tell my friends and family. The truth is I'm looking for an answer. I've left the church several months before, and did not know where to turn. I do not know an alternative what would I choose, "said Burns.

He hopes to find an idea what he will do after the "out" of the church. At church, Burns said, Christians are not allowed to pray directly to God. They can only pray to Jesus and hoping Jesus will continue that prayer to God. Burns feels there is something wrong with such teachings and he secretly always pray directly to God. Burns believes that there is only one entity with whom he should pray. But in his heart, Burns felt guilty for not obeying what he has taught religion. The situation was confused him in living their everyday lives.

Burns wondered why Christians are obliged to church only on Sundays. He was puzzled to see the behavior of different people when there are 180 degrees in church and when outside the church. Does being good only on Sundays only, as they all have to geraja? Burns did not find the answer to that question. He read about 10 prohibition of God, such as not killing, not lying, not stealing and other bad things that are obvious. Beyond that, Burns could not find the demands of how he should act when outside the church.

"All I know, probably do not deserve to wear miniskirts to church or we go to church on Sundays so he could see the cool guys at the church," said Burns.

One day, he visited the home of a teacher and there he saw the rows of the Bible on a bookshelf. According to his teacher, the Bible is different version. He saw his teacher did not really care to see biblical premises many different versions. But Burns did not feel comfortable knowing that. He found a very different between the versions with each other, there are even chapters that he did not find such in the Bible is often read. Burns more confused.

In Europe he found no answer to her confusion. Burns had to go home feeling disappointed. But his desire to learn Arabic still smoldering. As she stared at the wall of the mosque tuisan Alhambra, Burns did not realize that writing was the answer to all the restlessness of his soul. Burns did not realize until two years later.

Learning Arabic

On the first day to the campus, Burns immediately enrolled in Arabic classes. There are only four people, including himself who signed up for the least popular class on campus. Burns spirit and interest are high on the Arabic Arabic language teacher makes surprise. He was doing homework with a pen for calligraphy. He also visited the Arab community in Chicago only to find out the truth about the Arabic language in the writings of the Coca Cola bottle. Half-pleading, begging Burns Arabic teacher lent books in Arabic script so he could see and admire the form of Arabic writing that.

In his second year, Burns decided to major in Middle Eastern studies. He then took several courses related to the study. One of these courses on the Koran.

"One night I opened the Quran for college homework and I could not stop reading it. It's as if I found an interesting novel that kept me reading. Reading the Quran, my heart was screaming, 'Wow, this is terrific. This is what I always believed. " The Quran gives the answer to all my questions about how we should behave every day and in the Qur'an also clearly affirmed that God is one, "said Burns.

He claimed to be amazed there is a "book" that wrote all that he believes and what he'd been looking for, and what is written in it, it all makes sense. The next day he was in Al-Quran class she asks about the author "book", because the "book" was written one person's name.

Professor in his class told him that the name is written in the "book" is not the name of the author but the translator's name. Burns also briefed that the Koran contains the words of God and has since lowered penrah no change, continue to read and then collected in the form of "book".

"I'm really fascinated and more excited to learn Arabic, even more than that, I wanted to study Islam and intend a trip to the Middle East," said Burns.

In the last year of college, he went to Egypt to continue its Middle East studies. Cairo became the "Islamic" favorite because it was in the mosques in the city that made him feel calm and peaceful. "I could feel, inside the mosque, one can feel the beauty, strength and presence of God Almighty. And I so enjoy the writings of an elegant calligraphy on the walls of the mosque," said Burns.

One day, a friend of Burns asked why he did not convert to Islam only when he is greatly admired Islam. With lightly Burns replied, "But I've become Muslims," ​​an answer that he was surprised to hear that. At that Burns thinks that being a Muslim is a matter of logic and simple problems. Burns acknowledged that Islam is a religion acceptable to his mind, inspiring him and he admits the truth of the teachings of Islam. He thought, if it is to admit it, why he should convert? Friends of Burns was then explained that there is a mandatory Burns if he officially wants to be a Muslim.

Burns finally followed the advice of his friend. He then came to a mosque and say two sentences creed in the presence of two witnesses. He officially became a Muslim and was given a certificate as a sign that he had become a Muslim.

"But I save the certificate along with piles of personal letters. To me, no need to hang the certificate so that people know I am a Muslim. I have been and will always be a Muslim. As soon as I opened the Qur'an, I was finding my family is long gone. I prefer to hang pictures on the walls of the Alhambra mosque my room, rather than Islamic certificates me, "said Karima Burns.

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12:40 PM | 0 comments

Converted to Islam because of Pork

The new time show at 10:00 am in Beijing, China. When the prayer was still three hours away. A man seen near the mosque.

The man hesitated for a moment standing in front of the mosque. There is a reluctance to set foot into the mosque, especially after seeing the writing on the gate of the mosque which was written in Chinese, English and Arabic reads "Just for the Muslims."

But he brushed aside his doubts and ventures out into the mosque.

"Can I help you?" suddenly a man greeted him, the mosque's imam.

"I want to be a Muslim," said the man addressed.

Imam mosque smiled and greeted the man who wants to enter Islam. She took him to the office of "The Muslim community" which is located near the mosque. The priest handed me three little books on Islam. She wanted him to learn more about Islam, the religion who want to cuddle.

The young man turned out to not only read all these books, but read many other books about Islam. He also often took several imams in mosques to discuss to prove that he knew what he wanted to do.

Finally, a priest led him to say two sentences young man's confession of faith and officially became a Muslim.

The man is Jang, who after converting to Islam changed his name to Salim. After bersyahadat, Salim told why he wanted to become a Muslim.

"It all started from the pork," Salim said, smiling.

Islamic teachings to eat enough food, including a ban on eating pork, sparked curiosity Salim and encouraged him to find out more about Islam.

"I'm researching medical journals and read many books to find the answer," Salim said.

He found the answer why Islam forbids pork. Islam regards pigs as unclean animals or omnivores omnivorous. Pigs do not distinguish between meat or vegetation in eating habits. In contrast to cattle or sheep for example, that only eat plants. Some scientists also say that eating pork can cause at least 70 kinds of diseases in humans.

"I found the same conclusion in the Chinese traditional medicine is not recommended to eat pork meat and call it a most unhealthy and dangerous," said Salim.

Upon his experience, Jang interested in Islamic religion and decided to convert to Islam. He is now part of the Muslim community in China which, according to official data of more than 30 million people.

Islam has penetrated the country of China through the merchants, in the era of the Tang Dynasty about 1300 years ago. In fact there are historical records that mention that the friends of the Prophet Muhammad never visited China.

Although the Muslim community in China is large enough, they often become targets of oppression and discrimination of Chinese communist-oriented government. But who can stand in the light of Islam and the guidance that Allah gave to his people. Jang or Salim is one such example. He get's guidance with a unique background, simply because the issue of pork.

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12:29 PM | 1 comments

Divorce Does Not Make Himself Leaving Islam

Last week the international mass media reported that the number of converts in Britain increased rapidly, although the Islamic religion in the country, like most in Western countries, portrayed in a negative and still be a target of public suspicion.

Census ever conducted across the United Kingdom stated that the increase converts between 14,000 to 25,000 people. But a recent study conducted think-tank institute interfaith Faith Matters states that the number of converts in the UK is greater than estimated so far. According to the institute, the number of converts in the UK reached 100,000 people, where each year An estimated there were 5,000 British citizens who become new Muslims or converts.

That number is higher than the number of people who become converts every year in Germany and France. In both countries, only an estimated 4,000 people who say syahadat.setiap year.

Unique from the record converts in Britain, most of them were women. One of the UK women who choose the path of Islam that is Catherine Heseltine, a lecturer at a nursing school in North London. Even though he converted to Islam for marrying a Muslim youth, Heseltine study Islam seriously. When the marriage foundered, Heseltine remained steadfast in Islam. He recognizes that the Islamic religion has given direction and purpose for her life now, and Heseltine did not hesitate to obey the teachings of Islam to cover nakedness, wearing a headscarf.

Heseltine was still fairly young, he was only 31 years. He grew up in North London in a family that never taught her to live the teachings of any religion. Heseltine prefer to be a agnostics, until finally he knows Islam and began to study it because of curiosity.

"If you ask when I was 16 years of age, if I wanted to be a Muslim, I would say 'no thanks'. At the time I'm happy-happy drinking, partying and hang out with friends, "Heseltine recalls of his teenage years.

"Raised in North London, we were never to practice religion at home, I always thought that religion is ancient and was no longer relevant," he said.

Heseltine then met a young Muslim who summoned Syed. Muslim youth - who is now her husband - that changed all his views on religion. "He is young, a Muslim, believe in God. What sets it apart from other young children, he does not drink mimuman hard," said Syed Heseltine about.

He continued, "Before I met Syed, I almost never ask for what I believe in the liver. I chose to become an agnostic."

Syed Heseltine and eventually fell in love. Heseltine but soon realized, how he could live with someday if Syed himself a Muslim and not Muslim. Since it started growing curiosity about Islam Heseltine and he began reading books on Islam, including reading the translation of the Quran.

"Initially, the Quran only made me interested in the intellectual level only, not touching the emotional and spiritual side of me. I admire the explanation in the Qur'an about the universe. I am amazed that 1,500 years ago, Islam gave rights to women, that are not owned by women in the West, "Heseltine added.

"Religion is not the issue of the 'cool' to talk about, I try to keep my interest in Islam for three years. But in the first year of college, I decided to get married and Syed, and I knew it was time I tell my parents," he continued.

Both parents Heseltine not too enthusiastic to hear the wedding plans. They expressed concern if his daughter got married, then become a Muslim. Parents Heseltine imagine negative things about the position of Muslim women's role in the household. "Can not you live together first (without marriage)?" Heseltine's mother even suggested "tradition" that the Western society has become a common thing.

"No one realized the seriousness of my conversion. Many people think that I converted to Islam just to make the Syed family happy, not because I believe that religion," Heseltine said.

Heseltine and Syed stay married to Bengali custom. They then lived in a flat. In early marriage, Heseltine has not terpikr to wear the hijab, she was only wearing a bandana or hat. Slowly, Heseltine launch an Islamic way of life. "I want people to judge of intelligence and my character, rather than appearance," he said.

As someone who has never been part of religious communities, especially religious communities became minorities in the country, Heseltine admitted must make a major adjustment. Some friends were a shock to see Heseltine became a Muslim, some can accept the 'identity' of his new.

"What, do not drink, do not do drugs, not going out? I can not do it," said a shocked friend who knows Heseltine Heseltine had embraced Islam. Not only that, it takes time for Heseltine to remind his friends that men be no longer kiss on the cheek when meeting. "I have to say, 'sorry, it's about being a Muslim,'" he said.

As time went on, Heseltine Syed even more religious than her husband. The differences began to emerge. In the end, Heseltine think that marriage is something that is hard for Syed. Syed farther away and more and more tenuous relationship with Heseltine. After seven years of marriage, divorce can not be prevented anymore. Heseltine returned to her parents.

"When my parents came home, everyone was very surprised because everywhere I still wear the hijab. But, if there is one thing that strengthens my faith, I feel myself to be a Muslim an independent, free from the shadows of a Syed, "Heseltine said.

"Islam has given me purpose and direction of life. I was involved with the organization of the Muslim Public Affairs Committee and join campaigning against Islamophobia, against discrimination against women, campaigning to alleviate poverty, also campaigned in support of the Palestinian people."

"When people call us 'extremists', I just thought the title was so ridiculous. Many problems in the Muslim community, but if we feel depressed, it will only make it harder to move forward," Heseltine said.

He asserted, as a Muslim, he still felt a part of British society. It took a while for Heseltine to adjust the two identities.

"But now, I feel confident to be myself what it is. I am part of two worlds and no one is to rob the world of me," he said

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5:20 AM | 0 comments

Converting to Islam Because Bus Ad

Through advertisements on Islam entitled "Sowing Peace", many Chicago residents who converted to Islam. This month alone, no fewer than four residents of Chicago to embrace Islam.

Over the past ten years, Leslie C. Toole has been considering to embrace Islam. Even when teachers this asalChicago see these ads as a matter of simple yet so prominently visible on a public bus, he guessed the right moment has come. ''I never truly committed and when I saw the sign I guess that's the final sign to complete my business,''said Toole, 45 years.

Toole had inadvertently discovered Islam at a street corner ten years ago when a man gave her a pamphlet that says he'll find enlightenment in it. ''I kept reading and reading and I wanted to make sure I understand what is involved with?''He said innocently.

He talks about things that brighten it up a month ago. At that time, passing in front of the Chicago Transit Authority bus. The sign caught his eye and in the end he dialed the number on the ad giant. ''How to become a member of Islam is my main question,''said the official Toole embraced Islam September 29.

Her story is similar to one another Chicago who also accepted Islam this month. He also inspired ad campaign Sowing Peace Islam in an area in Chicago sponsored by the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA).

ICNA not kidding to bring Islam to other Americans. Gelontorkan funds they were big enough that is worth 30,900 U.S. dollars or 309 million (with a dollar exchange rate of USD 10 thousand). Funds amounting to the manufacturer's pamphlet pinned on 25 buses across Chicago yagn. The ad directs people to contact-free channels of Islam, 800 662, and an internet site set up to help those who seek answers about Islam.

Initially the campaign was mounted for a period of one month, beginning September 19 to October 20. However, given the high public interest and enthusiasm toward the ad, ad finally running the bus is extended until November 23. Line telephone callers they have been flooded. Thousands of hunt caller information through the channel, even if added to the Internet, no less than 300 thousand people who hunt for information about Islam.

When the people of Chicago are curious dialed the number, MenggapaiDamai (GainPeace) also gave them copies of the Quran in English, Message magazine on Prophet Muhammad as brochures and books relating to Islam.

The campaigners say that the purpose of a bus advertising campaign is to find a novel way to control people toward information about Islam. Topics''ad is Islam: a way of life with the names of different prophets,''said Saabeel Ahmed, Director GainPeace told IOL.

Ahmed said, with duty-free channels and Internet sites, allows for a person to get a chance to know more about Islam, with the opportunity to call those Muslims who are knowledgeable (alim) to straighten out misconceptions, bias from fear. ''We want to create a channel through the internet site so that people can interact with us and work communally, to know each other better,''said Ahmed.

Toole judge ad dibesut ICNA quite brilliant. ''That ad is very simple, but perfect as if to say,''You puunya question? Reach for the answer''is a brilliant way to attract people's attention,''Toole said, adding the idea is very simple, but very enjoyable. ''I've never seen anything like this before.''

ICNA, a grassroots organization based in New York which has 22 branches in the United States, also organized similar campaigns in Seattle and New York. In the Big Apple, 1,000 ads in the cars driving in the city's subway. The contents tickle; describe questions with a visual format that may be owned by people about Islam and the answer.

Since the campaign a success, other cities in the United States and Canada has asked these groups to start similar projects. A U.S. survey recently revealed American people knew little about Islam. Advertising is like a drop of water in the wasteland.

GainPeace role not only end up with advertising and Islamic education only. When someone converts to Islam, the group raised a "brother" who became a mentor to convert to Islam, by providing information, support and advice. "The mentor is like a guardian angel,''explained Ahmed, Director GainPeace. The mentor and the converts face to face and deal with mail and telephone. Toole, who has chosen Ilyas as a new Muslim name, loved his mentor. ''He was very helpful at all. He has given me a lot of books that I should go forward.''

GainPeace creed package also provides for the converts, which includes: a DVD guide prayer, a brief guide reading the Qur'an, and various brochures about Islam. Metreka also offers online classes once a week for the converts. And a class like this is always anticipated Ilyas to follow. ''I can learn everything about the lifestyle of Muslims to practice prayer and Arabic,''he said proudly.

Ilyas says that the more he learned about Islam, the more convinced he had made the right decision. ''This is really perfect for me. Difficult to explain because when you know something is true, this really is a feeling so deep in your heart. "

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5:17 AM | 0 comments

Tommy, Understanding Islam Through the Internet

True say, Islam is indeed a very beautiful and noble religion.

Although during this stigma has been given to Islam and Muslims in general, but the evidence he managed to get followers and evolved over nearly 15 centuries. Islam, in a few brief words, is my life. And God is a force in my life. Without God, I am nothing.

When I sat down to write this introduction, I do not intend to send the whole story of my return to the embrace of Islam. The more I think about it, the more I realize that this is the right place for the story.

I was baptized at birth when I was younger, when pre-schools in Detroit, Michigan. Since then, the church has always been part of early childhood in Detroit, even though my family did not go every week. But when my parents moved to North Carolina, they have started a churchgoer.

I have always gone to Catholic school. Therefore, I know from first-class life of Jesus, Mary, the Apostles, the Bible, and the Sacraments. I first got "first holy communion" at the age of 7 years.

In September 1995, a local group of people from Lebanon Orthodox Catholic (Melkite Byzantine Catholic) held a liturgy at our church. I went with my mom, and I fell in love. The most beautiful thing I ever saw, I heard, and I feel. Traditional liturgy, sung in English, Arabic, and Greek. With candles, icons, and lots of incense.

When my friends just learning about the church, they never criticize me, but they do not understand why I liked the Melkite Byzantine Catholic. Some people claim that I do to get attention. But for me, I've done something a little more outrageous!

Serious conflicts

I kept going to the Melkite church every Sunday until mid-March 1996. But one day, exactly 40 days before Easter, I had my first serious quarrel with the Christian religion. Actually I am not sure what happened sedangb. But suddenly, I stopped believing in Christianity.

For some reason, I just feel Judaism is the only monotheistic religion of the best that I know. And finally I went on the Sabbath in the synagogue with my parents' friends. I am always interested in Jewish culture, but I do not know much about Judaism.

I began to attend Sabbath services on Sunday morning. Although I have been pretty well received by the Jews in town, I also got a lot of criticism from my friends. Again, I was accused of trying to get attention, trying to be different.

Whatever the words of people, I slowly began to adopt Judaism and Jewish practices follow their culture and religion. I also began to study Hebrew for every Sabbath on Saturdays.

At the time I started high school in 1996, people called me "The WHO kid thinks he's Jewish." [The child who thinks he is Jewish]. I even plan to move to Israel. But little did I know, that "kemesrahan" me with supanya Jews will soon be over.

One day, during Thanksgiving, I was sitting at home facing the Internet, to find one or two interesting sites. I started looking for magazines over the Internet. I was troubled when capturing a site Ibrahim Shafi's Islam Page. I am dealing with an Islamic website.

What I understand about Islam? Not much. But I have a friend at a Muslim school, my mother worked with Muslims. However, knowledge about Islam is very limited. Most of what I know comes from books. What makes me frown when calling Islam the treatment of women with very noble.

Apparently, I began studying Islam through the web. I immediately "girl talk" in chat room on an IRC (Internet Relay Chat) to find as many Muslim friends. From there, I began to declare themselves memeluik creed and Islam.

My life feels good, but I still do not feel that I was part of the Muslims. The problem, as I do not declare shahada in front of witnesses.

Well, the opportunity to become a Muslim in the presence of other Muslims came during a trip to Chicago. My sister went to the University of Chicago and I realized that there is MSA (Muslim Student Association) there. Finally, through the MSA I officially declare besaksi to Allah and the Messenger of Allah embraced Islam.

Now, my new name changed to Tariq Ali. However, sometimes, day-to-day is still called Tommy.

Although it has been memekuk Islam, there are still many people still meledekku due to my past religion. "What is your religion this week, Tommy?". And usually, I explained, "I have been Muslim." And if they are interested and bekepentingan, I further explain that my religion is very great.

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5:14 AM | 0 comments

Converted to Islam After 8 Years Read Al-Quran

I was raised in a devout Christian family. At that time, Americans are more religious than the present-for example, most families go to church every Sunday. My parents participated in the church community. We often bring the priest to the house. My mother taught in Sunday school, and I helped

Surely I am more religious than other children, although I do not feel like it used to be. One time when a birthday, my aunt gave a gift of a Bible, and to my sister she gave her a doll. Other times I have bought a prayer book to parents, and I read it every day for several years.

When I was junior high school, I attended a Bible study program for two years. When I was reviewing some of the Bible, yet I have not understood it properly. Then I had the opportunity to learn more. Unfortunately, we learned a lot of passages in the Old Testament and the New incomprehensible, even strange.

For example, the Bible teaches about the beginning of sin, which means that all humans are born sinful. I have a baby, and I knew he was innocent.

The Bible contains many stories of strange and very disturbing, for example the story of Abraham and David. I can not understand how the prophets could behave as told in the Bible.

There are many other things in the Bible that confuse me, but I do not question it. I was too afraid to ask-I want to be known as the "good girl".

Alhamdulillah, finally there is a boy who asked, and he kept asking. The boy was asked many questions about the trinity. He got a lot of answers but was never satisfied. Just like me. Finally, our teacher, a professor of theology at the University of Michigan, asked to pray for steadfastness of faith. I also pray.

The most important thing is about the trinity. I can not understand it. How could God consists of three parts, one of which is human? At school I also studied Greek and Roman mythology, so I think the idea of ​​the Trinity and saints such as Greek and Roman cultures thought that know a lot of gods, each responsible for different aspects of life (astagfirullah!).

When high school I secretly wanted to become a nun. I am interested to do worship every day, attracted a full life dedicated to God, and show a religious lifestyle. Impediments to this ambition is only one: I am not a Catholic. I live in a town in the Midwestern region, where Catholics are a minority that is not popular.

I met a Muslim from Libya. He told me a little about Islam and the Quran. He said that modern Islam, religions of the Book is the most up-to-date. Since I assume that Africa and the Middle East backward, then I can not see Islam as something modern.

My family took her to a Christmas program at church. For me the show was very touching and memorable. But at the end of the show he asked, "Who makes the rules of worship like that? Who taught you when to stand, bend and kneel? Who taught you how to worship? "

I told him the history of the early church. Initially the question was really making me angry, but then I got to thinking. Are the people who make the ordinances of worship was truly qualified to do so? How could they know how to worship it should be done? Are they able to revelations about it?

I realize if I do not believe a lot of Christian teachings, but I still go to church. When the Nicene Creed recited together, I was just quiet, I did not read it also. I am like a stranger in the church.

There is a very shocking incident. Someone very close to me having problems in her household. He went to church to ask for advice. People from church that just take advantage of distress and suffering. The man took her to a motel and then seduce her.

Previously I did not really pay attention to what the role of monks in the church. Since that event I became noticed. Most Christians believe that forgiveness should be through a sacred worship event led by a priest. No priest, no forgiveness.

I visited the church, sat down and watched the priest is in front. They are no better than the people who came-some of them even worse. So how can an ordinary human being, is needed as an intermediary to communicate with God? Why can I not be in direct contact with God, and receive forgiveness?

Shortly after that, I found the translation of the Qur'an in a bookstore. I then bought and read it, and keep reading, though sometimes interrupted, for eight years. During that time I also find out about other religions.

I am increasingly worried and afraid of my sins. How do I know God will memafkan my sins? I no longer believe in the style of Christian forgiveness method will succeed. Burdens of sin so heavy for me, and I do not know how to liberate themselves from him. I crave pardon.

Reading Al-Quran

Once, I read Al-Quran that says: "And thou find the closest friendship with people of faith are those who say: 'We are Christians." That's because among them there monks, also they are not bragging. And when they listen to what is revealed to the Messenger (Muhammad), you see their eyes shed tears due to the truth (the Quran) which they already know (from the books of their own), saying: "Our Lord, we have then take note of our faith with those who witness (to the truth of the Quran and the prophethood of Muhammad SAW). Why we will not believe in Allah and the truth that comes to us when we are desperate for our Lord put us down among those who are righteous? [Al-Maidah: 82-84]

I began to hope that Islam has the answer. But how do I find out? In the news on television I saw the Muslims worship. They have specific ways to pray. I found a book-written by non-Muslims, which explains how Muslims worship. Then I tried to do it myself. At that time I did not know about taharah and I pray the wrong way. I continue to pray that way for several years.

Finally, approximately 8 years since I first bought first translation of the Koran, I read: "This day have I perfected for you your religion, and I'd had a My blessing to you both ends meet and I'd had a ridhai Islam is a religion for you. "[Al-Maidah: 3]

I wept for joy, because I knew, long before the earth was created, God had written that the Koran is for me. God knows that Anne Collins in Cheektowaga, New York, USA, would read this verse in May 1986.

I know a lot of things that need to be studied, such as how to pray is right, something that is not described in detail in the Qur'an. The problem is I do not know a single Muslim.

Today Muslims are relatively easy to find in the U.S.. I did not know where to find them. I get the phone number of a Muslim community of the phone book. I then tried to contact him. A man answered on the other side, I panicked and hung up. What would I say to him? How will they answer my question? Would they be suspicious? Will they accept me, while they already have each other in Islam?

A few months later I again called the mosque several times. And every time I panic, I shut it down. Finally, I wrote a letter, requesting information. A brother of the mosque phoned me and then sent me a leaflet about Islam. I told him I wanted to convert to Islam. But he said to me, "Wait until you're sure."

The answer is that I waited to make me upset. But I realized he was right. I have to believe, because once accepted Islam, then things will never be the same again.

I became obsessed with Islam. I thought about it day and night. On several occasions, I drove to the mosque (at that time the mosque is in the form of a house that was converted into a mosque). I spun around several times, hoping to see a Muslim, and was curious as to what the situation inside the mosque.

One day in early November 1986, when I cook in the kitchen, I suddenly felt if I had become a Muslim. Still timid, I sent another letter to the mosque. I wrote: I believe in God, God Almighty, I believe that Muhammad is his messenger, and I want listed as a witness it.

Brotherhood of the mosque phoned me the next day, and I say the creed on the telephone. He said that God has forgiven all my sins then and there, and I'm like a newborn baby.

I feel the burden of the sins away from the shoulder. And I cried out of happiness. I'm just a little sleep that night. I cried, repeating the name of Allah. I was looking for forgiveness has been obtained. Alhamdulillah.

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5:05 AM | 0 comments

Ten Kings and Leaders of African tribes converted to Islam

Even though famous as a flamboyant figure of the leader and often controversy, President of the Socialist Republic of Libya's Colonel Muammar Arab Qadzafi preacher is also a unique figure.

Recently, as many as ten kings and leaders of tribes across the continent of Africa declared their Islam before Qadzafi. They converted to Islam "under hand" Qadzafi.

Libiya newspaper Akhbar Libya (26 / 2) launch, several kings and leaders of African countries Nigeria, Madagascar, and Ghana say the shahada in front of Islamic Demonstration dilangsungkannya Qadzafi when the V is routinely held yearly in the city of Benghazi, Libya, on Thursday (25 / 2) night.

Before the kings and tribal leaders were saying two sentences creed, Qadzafi first giving lectures and Islamic discourse, such as the pillars of Iman, Islam, and Islamic teachings other noble.

Qadzafi also called for, to always practice what has been ordained of God and away from all the prohibitions, to worship and righteous deeds-deeds.

After giving lectures and discourses, Qadzafi also lead them to say two sentences creed, with Arabic and French, as well as lead them to read the letter Alfatihah.

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1:41 PM | 0 comments

Aysha, Beginning to Wonder Why Muslims are Proud to Become Muslim

His name is Aysha, he was from Hungary. He heard about Islam when following the lessons of history in high school, because the country was under Turkish occupation for 150 years.

After that Aysha go to university to study molecular biology, where he met many Muslim foreign students.

He always wondered why Muslims seem proud that they are Muslims.

Aysha was Catholic, devout enough but it always has doubts, and disagrees with some part of his religion, for example: how God can have children and the concept of the Trinity can not be trusted.

Then he started talking to her friends, and once when they were having dinner and prayer began to resound, one of his friends asked him to stop, but he refused. He was very impressed with it and something had touched her heart.

Then, without realizing that summer he was downloading a program of the Qur'an. He listened to in Arabic as he read an English translation. Then, he thought a lot about Islam and read many books about it.

After two months of thinking, he finally chose Islam. He spoke two sentences Creed in front of two friends.

Aysha chose to oppose the culture of Islam and his family, especially her mother.

After that, Ramadan began and he decided to start his new life in the Islamic Ramadan, and he succeeded.

He began to pray on August 4. Initially very difficult because the people around him are not Muslims so that he can not ask anyone.

He studied his own manner of prayer the internet, because no one ever showed him how to pray or ablution is done, or what to say prayers before or what the etiquette and rules of Islam.

Once, a friend made him feel very sad. "He told me that I will never understand Islam because it is not born as a Muslim," says Aysha.

"When I told him that I will begin fasting for Ramadan, he said that it is not just about feeling hungry. At that time I was new to Islam, I recently converted to Islam during one month before he said it. "

At that Aysha was afraid. "What if I will never know how to pray in Arabic? What if I do not do it right? And I do not have mukena or mat to perform their prayers, I do not get any help. I have a lot of fear at the time, "he said.

"But when I started praying, I think that God must have been smiling on me today. Because I used to always write down the reading prayers in a piece of paper with instructions, and I hold the paper in my right hand and read it aloud. I am sure now that I look funny, "recalls Aysha. But after reading it he managed to memorize prayers in Arabic and is no longer a problem.

Then he went up and got a lot of friends and relatives. "From my online brothers get a lot of love and courage."

Then a man proposed to her and gave mukena Muslim and Islamic prayer rugs and a book. Aysha get its Arabic-language Al-Quran is the first of Jordan in the mail because she could not buy it in Hungary. Now has more than a year she wore a headscarf.

Aysha had a bad period with his mother. The mother keeps telling him that he would become a terrorist and will be leaving his mother as he left his religion. His mother also said that Aysha will leave the country. "He will put all the pork products in the fridge and I will refuse to eat it and then it turns into a fight," says Aysha.

Aysha's mother could not bear to see her praying and wearing a headscarf. Aysha was praying in the room. "He did not want to see me when I wear a hijab. He will say that she gave birth to a son Christian not a Muslim veil. "

Aysha has a serious problem with his mother, but she was never rude to him. "But thank God, now he was quiet and seemed to accept that I became a Muslim. I am very thankful to God for this. Now I travel wearing a hijab and she did not say anything. "

First, Aysha has never spoken to her father and the father did not want to see it. However, because Islam, Aysha opening up to the father and now his father was visiting Aysha and her mother regularly.

"Yes, my life is full of great trials, but I thank God for it and I have the patience and hope. On the day of Judgement I will be very grateful to them. So I try to be better and more learning and better understanding of my religion. "

"I believe everything is predestined, so God decided whatever will happen to me, I can not change it, but I can choose to live my life well," says Aysha.

Now, Aysha trying to help others in Debrecen. He organized a project to collect used clothing for people in refugee camps. There are many Muslims who have no homes due to war. Aysha and her colleagues collect clothes, go to the region and Pakistan make bread for the children and women in refugee camps. "They are very happy and exciting to see them."

"I used to convey the opinion if something is bothering me, but now I always try to give examples wherever I go," says Aysha.

He also tried to guide those who want or have recently converted to Islam. A few days earlier, Aysha met two Hungarian women who had recently become converts. He also gave them some books, prayer mats and copies of the Qur'an. All three perform prayers in congregation and both look very happy converts.

"I try to always leave impression that Muslims are good and friendly."

Aysha convert to Islam and a half years ago. Now he is learning Arabic to be able to read the Qur'an.

"I read the Qur'an in Hungarian, I pray five times a day, I tried to follow the Qur'an and Sunnah Rasul, and I read lots of books to get a better understanding."

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2:47 PM | 0 comments

Michael Wolfe, Interested in Islam after Looking Muslim prayers on the plane

CNN's leading television station interviewed a man named Michael Wolfe shortly after the incident occurs when ejection Jumrah implementation, several years ago. Despite its Western name, but in fact, Wolfe is able to provide explanations in a clear and related to the pilgrimage at length, as well as events that never happened before.

Wolfe also explained in detail all matters concerning the implementation of the pilgrimage, from the pillars of hajj, ordinances, until the meaning at every worship is conducted. But who is Michael Wolfe? Indeed, Wolfe is the author of a book called One Thousand Roads to Mecca: Ten Centuries of Travelers Writing About the Muslim Pilgrimage. Moreover, he never made a documentary film about the pilgrimage to the same television station.

So, when judging from his résumé is, no one if the television station chose Wolfe as the speaker source. He is also known as producers, writers, and intellectuals. In addition to producing works of books and movies, he often gave public lectures about Islam in a number of famous universities in the U.S..

Gait was born 3 April 1945 that the Islamic religion is a form of commitment as a Muslim, after he pledged himself as a Muslim (convert). Michael Wolfe became Muslim in the late 80s, and since then he is submissive to the advancement of Islam and Muslims around the world.

Starting at the end of 70, Wolfe who was then already become a writer, want to find enlightenment in his life. He tried to soften the feeling cynical view on the surrounding environmental conditions.

Born in a family that has two handles religion, his father was Jewish, while her mother was a Christian. The situation is causing a little depressed when Wolfe should discuss the issue of religion and freedom.

Until then he found a memorable moment. One when he traveled to Brussels, Belgium. Right after dinner, Wolfe went to the toilet. At the same time, a number of airline passengers who are Muslims praying at their desks because it was in when evening prayers.

Wolfe is out of the toilet, was struck by the incident. Keep a close watch him do the Muslims worship. He then realized, wherever and whenever, the Muslims who believe will never neglect the obligation of worship to God.

"I just stand and look, I see most of them holding a book at hand is then placed in the chest as he praised the Lord," said Wolfe. This incident brings Wolfe wanted to know more about Islam. He wanted to find a religion that is not only limited to ritual or worship, and there is no doubt in it. Wolfe then decided to wander into North Africa, and settled in the area for about three years.

There, he interacted with a totally different environment. Wolfe met with many ethnic, tribal and religious, including by the Arab and African descent who are Muslims. That's for the first time introducing a really intense with Islam. And soon enough, he felt a more intimate atmosphere, polite and considerate. Muslims accept it with open arms.

From his observations, as quoted from page Islamfortoday, Muslims never discriminate someone based on ethnicity or skin color. Anyone seen the same and equal, whether poor, rich, old, young, and so on. Islam does distinguish individuals based on faith and piety to Allah SWT.

This is clearly in contrast with his former life. For example, in the association intermarry, just often arise discrimination because of differences in skin color, ethnicity or belief. "It happens every day in society when they claim to have religious beliefs. Serious concern, "he explained.

He had found peace in Islam. Inwardly, he confirmed the statement the U.S. Muslim leader, Malcolm X, who said that Americans need to understand Islam because Islam is the only religion that teaches mutual respect and appreciate the genuinely human. Author of an article titled Islam: The Next American Religion? It also argues, Islam is a religion that are appropriate for American conditions. There are several reasons, among others, Islam has the spirit of democracy, egalitarian, and tolerant of other beliefs.

Wolfe recorded twice traveled to Morocco, namely in 1981 and 1985. In the end he concluded that North Africa is a region that could bring a new balance in her life. His heart was moored in North Africa. And not only anchored in North Africa, his heart began amazed and astonished with Islam. The more explore Islam, the stronger the belief in him. Michael Wolfe finally decided to become Muslim.

This unfortunate decision by his colleagues of the Western academic circles. Most of them still associate Islam with a society that is backward and violent religion. They also asked Wolfe to undo the decision.

However, Wolfe which later changed its name to Michael Abdul Majeed Wolfe, did not waver. Wolfe assess his colleagues misjudged Islam. Islam, from his observations, has been much misunderstood and distorted from the actual reality. "In short, Islam is a religion of peace," said Wolfe.

Steady himself increasingly embracing Islam, with all its consequences, because he saw the goodness and virtue in this religion. According to him, Islam emphasized on brotherhood and love, both to fellow human beings of the universe.

Furthermore, these figures look, in the next few years, Islam will become a religion with the most rapid development in Europe and America. From year to year, the number of Muslims is growing, including those who became converts, and among others, triggered by the increasing number of people who understand the true essence of Islamic teachings before.

Wolfe increasingly enthusiastic worship and Islamic activities. He read many books about Islam and get involved with the activities of the mosque near his home in California. "Every year the Muslim fasting month and followed by the Hajj for about 40 days. That's the glory of Islam, "he said.

Described, the five pillars of Islam berasaskan primary. One of them is a pilgrimage. Wolfe believes, when it has been able to materially and physically, a person's obligatory to perform the pilgrimage to the Holy Land, at less once in a lifetime.

After the pilgrimage around the beginning of 1990, Wolfe contribution at best in a book called Mecca: The Hadj, published in 1993, and One Thousand Roads to Mecca (1997). "Now I hope to explore religious beliefs that have been tersemai since a long time," said Wolfe.

Continuing his writing, a graduate of bachelor of Arts Classics at Wesleyan University was founded publishing Tombouctou Books, Bolinas, California. One of his achievements which is now editing a collection of essays the author of American Muslims in a book titled Taking Back Islam: American Muslims Reclaim Their Faith. This book won the 2003 Wilbur Award in the category of the best religion book.

Wolfe was also the host of a program of short films about the pilgrimage to Mecca for Ted Koppel's Nightline program on ABC television station. The program also won awards from the media Muslim Public Affairs Council.

Michael Wolfe's love can not be doubted. His days were always filled with a variety of Islamic activities. In between busy writing, which he made as a propaganda medium, Wolfe expanding Islamic poem in public, especially non-Muslims through other media. In February 2003, he collaborated with CNN television journalist, Zain Verjee, to make the program a documentary film about the pilgrimage.

In 1999, along with fellow filmmakers, Alex Kronemer, Wolfe founded a media education foundation named Unity Productions Foundation (UPF). Collaboration Wolfe and Alex in the UPF and produce works of television documentary on the life of Prophet Muhammad, entitled Muhammad: Legacy of a Prophet.

Related to the film, Wolfe said they wanted to target two audiences at once. First, the educated layman as well as Western societies. Most of them do not know much about the life of Prophet Muhammad true, so often give a negative perception. While the second, the Muslim community itself so that they are more familiar figure of the noble Prophet SAW.

The film was shot in three countries, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the United States. Some religious leaders, historians and scholars such as Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, Karen Armstrong, Cherif Basiouni, Hossen Sayyid Nasr, and many more, are recorded into his sources. To increase accuracy, along with Kronemer, Wolfe studied sirah (history) as well as books on hadith the Prophet Muhammad.

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Amanda, beginning Hate Islam But Now Being Muslim

Although initially "hated" Islam, Iowa girl who lives in Connecticut is finally 'in love' on Islam. He finally melafazkan creed


Around early September 2006, Islamic classes for non-Muslims are coming of a Caucasian girl with blue eyes. Sitting in one corner of the room with a keen eye, barely kerkedip and even showed an inside edge. Several times I have presented lolucen in that class, nor make it smile.


When the question and answer session began, the girl raised her hand, and without smiling posed questions that make some participants dropped, and some even thought that I would be offended by these questions.


"If Muhammad is a true prophet, then why he robbed and killed?", He asked in a voice soft but firm. "Why he forced the Jews to leave Their homes, while They have been settled in Medina a long time before Muhammad was born?", He added.


Smiling, I asked, "Where did you get this information? I mean, the which book did you read ". He then showed he was carrying several books, including some writings / articles taken from various sources on the internet. I asked for some books and articles, but I just do not respond to his questions.


I asked, "Where are you from and where do you live?". Turns out he was an Iowa girl currently living in Connecticut.


As I introduce myself further I noticed that "honesty" and "intelligentsia" girl. Although it still can not show the face of friendship, but it seems he is the girl is.


He was a "scientist" who works at one research institution in New York. But he said again, and this is where the new seems a little smile, "I am an IOWAN girl". When I asked what he meant, he replied: "a very country girl".


Hence indeed the situation does not allow for me to argue with him directly regarding questions that are thrown, I propose that the questions sent to me via email, to selanjuntnya can discuss via email and also at the next meeting. Evening classes and even then disbanded, but the questions this Iowa girl kept tickling my mind.


At night, I open the email before going to bed as usual. This Iowa girl was fulfilling my request. She introduced herself as Amanda. He sent an email with attachment 4 page full of questions-khususunya - about the Prophet Muhammad. I once again did not answer these questions, but invited to come to class on the following Saturday Islamic.


It turns out, perhaps he himself realized that some participants frum on Saturday was less comfortable with the questions that are considered too "plain and sharp." So he suggested that I could provide a special time for him to discussion. I then accepted the proposal to discuss with him every Thursday afternoon after working hours at the Islamic Center.


We also agreed to meet every day 5:30 until 7:00 pm. One and a half hour in my opinion enough to discuss dengannnya.


Unexpectedly, it turns out the month of Ramadan has arrived. Then the arrival of the first to dialogue with me happened on the third Thursday in September 2006, when we were preparing for iftar.


He came, as usual with a hooded potluck, but this time with a very polite, though still with a look that seemed suspicious.


We begin our discussion with questions that have been emailed it. Apparently, just one issue under discussion, occasionally interspersed with a bit of an emotional debate. Athan has been echoed iftar. So I politely ask permission to Amanda for breaking the fast, but do not forget to offer if you want to join me. Apparently, Amanda pleased to join the evening meal (go go) and seemed to enjoy the dish.


After breaking the fast, because they have to fill the lecture, I have to say to Amanda that our discussion will be continued next Thursday. But if it is still pleasing present, I came to Frum mempesilahkan Saturday. He promised to come.


The next Saturday, he came up with a more friendly face. Sitting seems quieter, but still heavy as to smile. In fact, my discussion is sometimes filled with a joke. Known, but it is intended not to present Islam with "rigid" I want to convey to them that the Muslims were also the same as other humans, can joke (good), smiled, and so on.


Amanda seems serious attention to all the points that I mentioned that day. Incidentally we are discussing the creation of Eve in the context of the Qur'an. The point is to explain how the process of creation of Eve in the prospective of history, and also how the Quran puts Eve in the context of "gender" lively debate today. Amanda seriousness of this almost makes me suspect that he was looking for loopholes to submit questions that attack.


It turned out that my suspicion was wrong. Amanda is now before delivering precisely the question to ask, "Is it ok to ask this question?". Usually I have to say emphatically, "Nothing is to be hesitant to ask on any thing or any issue in Islam. You may ask any issue range from theological issues up to the social ones ".


Amanda was asked several questions about women, but this time with courtesy. Hijab, polygamy, the concept of "power" (he meant was qawwamah), etc.. I almost do not believe, how she understood it all. And sometimes in delivering these questions with evidence obtained from the books - which is precisely - written by previous scholars.


I tried to answer all of them with arguments "aqliyah", because I saw Amanda is a very rational person. Thank God, I do not know whether he was satisfied or not, but they certainly seem Amanda nodding his head.


Similarly, several meetings. Until came the day of Eid. Amanda when I was invited to attend "Open House" at the house a few RI officials in New York City.


Because he was still working, he had only come to the residence of Deputy Ambassador to the UN. It was there, while enjoying the foods of Indonesia, Amanda re asking sharp questions. "If Islam respects religious freedom, why Ahmadiyya in Indonesia is banned? Why Lia Aminuddin is arrested? ".


I was surprised to precisely convey information Amanda. I personally do not read much about this, and not too concerned. So I explained, in all States of course there are rules that need to be adhered to. Ahmadiyah and Lia Aminuddian, obviously me, not establishing a new religion but to distort Islam. Because they are destroying religion is believed by many Muslim societies, governments need to curb this. Apparently my explanation is less satisfactory, but the discussion changed direction kekudian to bihalal halal food and tradition.


Speedy story, some Sunday and then she sends an email with the sound as follows, "I think I start having my faith in Islam". I just said, "All is in God's hands and yours. I am here to assist you to find the truth That you are looking for ". Just, Amanda says that his journey to learn about Islam it will take a long time.


"When I do some thing, I do it with a commitment. And I truly want to know Islam. " I just answered, "Take you time, Amanda."


Alhamdulillah, after nearly seven months studying Islam, and after reading the various references, including commentary Fii Zilalil Quran (English version) and Tafhimul Qur'an (Classic), and several books of hadith, Amanda began seriously studying Islam.


Last week, he sent an email to me. It contained this: "I have decided a very big decision .. and I think you know what I mean. I am very scared now. Do you have some words of wisdoms? ".


I replied, "Amanda, you have searched it, and now you found it. Why you have to be scared?. You believe in God, and God is there to take your hands. Be confident in what you believe in ".


Three days ago, she sent back to his email and said that he intends to formally say "syahahat" on next Monday (March 5, 2007 yesterday). I ask, why not Saturday or Sunday so a lot of friends who can follow? He replied that some of his closest friends just had time on Monday.


Thank God, witnessed by about 10 close friends Amanda (including non-Muslims), just after the Maghrib prayer he guided me melafazkan "Ash-hadu laa ilaha illa Allah an-wa anna Muhammadan Rasul Allah ASYHADU", accompanied by shouted Takbir and some of her friends drop tears that attended. Amandapun first as Muslims perform afternoon prayers were followed by joint prayer may God strengthen his way toward the Divine blessing.

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Aminah Assilmi, converts to Islam and Sacrifice Everything

Not many people know Aminah Assilmi. He is the President of the International Union of Muslim Women who have died on March 6, 2010, in a car accident in Newport, Tennessee, United States.

Journey to Islam is quite unique. A memorable trip. It all started with a small error of a computer. At first, he was a Southern Baptist church girl-flow of the largest Protestant church in the U.S., a radical feminist, journalist and broadcaster.

When young, he's not an ordinary girl, but intelligent and excel in school and get scholarships. One day, a computer error occurs. Unbelievably, it took him to the mission as a Christian and changed his life as a whole.

In 1975 for the first time the computer is used for pre-registration process on campus. Actually, he enrolled in a class in the field of recreational therapy, but the computer mendatanya enter the theater class. Classes can not be canceled, because it was too late. Canceling classes is also not an option, because as a recipient of the scholarship value of F means danger.

Then, her husband suggested that Aminah is facing lecturers to look for alternatives in class performances. And how shocked he was, because the class is filled with Arab children and 'the camel'. Unable to, he went home and decided not to go to class anymore. It is impossible for him to be in the middle of the Arabs. "There's no way I was sitting in a class full of infidels," he said at the time.

Her husband tried to calm him down and said maybe God has a plan behind the incident. For two days Aminah shut myself to think, until he finally concluded that maybe is a clue from God, so he leads the Arabs to embrace Christianity. So he has a mission that must be accomplished. In class, she continues to discuss Christianity with Arab friends of his.

"I start by saying that they would burn in hell if you do not accept Jesus as savior. They were very polite, but not converted. Then I explained how Jesus loved, and dying on the cross to erase their sins. "

But his call did not work. Friends in her class did not want to turn away so he decided to study the Quran to show that Islam is a false religion and Mohammed was not a prophet. He also did research for one and a half years to finish reading the Quran.

But unconsciously, he slowly turns into a different person, and her husband noticed it. "I changed a little, but enough to make him annoyed. Usually we go to the bar every Friday and Saturday or to a party. And I no longer want to go. I became more quiet and away. "

Seeing the changes that occurred, her husband thought she was having an affair, because for a man that's what makes a woman transformed. Peak, he was asked to leave home and live in a different apartment. He continued to study Islam, while still being a devout Christian.

Finally, the guidance that comes. Finally on May 21, 1977, church-abiding states, "I testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger."

Trip after saying two sentences creed, like other converts, is not an easy matter. Amina loses everything he loves. He lost almost all his friends, because it is not fun anymore. His mother could not accept and expect it is only burning passion that will soon be extinguished. His sister is a psychiatrist thought he was crazy. His father was a gentle cocked the weapon and ready to kill him.

Soon he was wearing a hijab. On the same day he lost his job.

Already complete. He lived without a father, mother, brothers, friends and work. If he had only lived apart with their husbands, divorce is now in sight. In court he had to make bitter decisions in his life; abandoned Islam and will not lose custody of their children or keep hold of Islam and must leave the children. "It is 20 minutes of the most painful in my life," he recalls.

Increased pain because the doctor had sentenced him would no longer have a child who suffered from complications. "I pray more than usual. I know, there is no safer place for my children than in the hands of God. If I deny Him, then the future is not possible for me to show them how wonderful to be close to God. "He decided to let go of her children, two sons and his little daughter.

However, Allah the Merciful. It provided anugerah with beautiful words that make many people touched and his Islamic behavior. He has turned into a different person, much better. So well that family, friends and relatives who are first hostile, gradually began to appreciate his choice.

On many occasions he sent greeting cards to them, which is inscribed the words of the wise Quran verses or hadith, without citing its sources. Some time later he also reap the seeds are planted. The first person to accept Islam was his grandmother who was more than 100 years. Shortly after converting to Islam was the grandmother died.

"On the day he said creeds, all his sins forgiven, and good deeds are recorded. Converted to Islam shortly after he died, I knew the book records the weight on the side of good deeds. It makes me filled with joy! "

Furthermore, the acceptance of Islam is the one who had wanted to kill him, father. Islamic father reminded her of the story of Umar bin Khattab. Two years after embracing Islam Aminah, his mother called and really appreciate the new faith. And he hopes will remain hugged Aminah.

A few years later the mother called again and asked what to do if someone wants to be Muslim. Amina replied that he must believe that there is only one God and Muhammad is his messenger. "If it's too stupid to know everyone. But what should he do? "Asked his mother again.

Aminah said, that if her mother had believed meant she was Muslim. His mother then said, "OK, fine. But do not tell the father first, "her message. Her mother did not know that her husband (stepfather Aminah) has become a Muslim a few weeks earlier. Thus they lived together for several years without knowing each other that their partners have embraced Islam.

His sister who was struggling to enter Aminah to a mental hospital, eventually embraced Islam. Aminah's son was growing up. Entering the age of 21, he called his mother and said she wanted to be Muslim.

Sixteen years after the divorce, her ex-husband also accepted Islam. He said, for sixteen years he watched Amina and wants their daughter the same religion as her mother. The man came to and apologized for what he had done. He is a very good man and Aminah had forgiven him long ago.

Perhaps the greatest gift to him is what he received then. Aminah married someone else, and although doctors have said he could not have children anymore, God bestowed on a son who turns out beautiful. If God wishes to give mercy to someone, then who can stop him? Then his son he named Barakah. Similarly, as reported by the website Republika Online.

He once lost a job, now the President of the International Union of Muslim Women. He successfully lobbied the United States Post Office to make the Eid postage and fight to keep the feast became a national U.S. holiday. Who had given sacrifices for the sake of defending Islam Aminah as if it was reciprocated.

"We all must die. I am sure that the pain I was experiencing contained blessings. "

Aminah Assilmi has now gone to leave everything he loved. Including his son who was hospitalized, a car accident on his way home from New York to preach the message of Islam.

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