Marilyn (Maryam) Hill, the lady of #NewMuslim America:

✅ The challenging phase for me came after pronouncing the Shahada...

🌐 Follow @rahyafte_en for more inspiring stories!

#NewConvert #MuslimJourney #ConvertStory #IslamicConversion #Inspiration #FaithJourney #ShahadaMoment

• Anima (Fatima), a 🇨🇳 Chinese woman, shares her conversion journey to Islam, specifically Shia Islam.
• Raised in a communist environment, she initially held communist beliefs despite having Sunni Muslim parents.
• In China, children have the freedom to choose their religion, and Anima's parents were Sunni Muslims.
• After 8 years in 🇮🇷 Iran, at 18, she married and, after 3 years of research, embraced Islam, choosing Shia Islam.
• Anima highlighted the negative portrayal of Islam in Chinese communist schools and misconceptions about Muslims.
• China has a vast population, but only around 20 million Muslims, with Shia Muslims constituting only 1%.
• Anima expressed pride in being a Muslim, especially after hearing Ziyarat Ashura at the age of 21. 🤲
• She faced challenges expressing her Shia identity in China, where Sunni leaders in mosques spoke negatively about Shia Islam.
• Anima was the first person in her city and province to publicly recite Ziyarat Ashura. 🗣️
• Sunni imams in Chinese mosques avoid discussing Imam Ali, presenting Shia Islam as inferior.
• Anima's husband converted to Shia Islam after coming to Iran, and they named their son Mahdi. 👨👩👦
• Anima urged Iranians to appreciate the freedom to express their Shia identity and emphasized living a life that showcases their faith. #ShiaPride #ConvertStory #MuslimUnity 🌙
@rahyafte_en

🔺Elizabeth, a newly converted German-born Muslim 🌍

I have always believed in God, even though at times my beliefs were weak. Embracing a new journey of faith and discovery. 🙏 Follow my spiritual quest on @rahyafte_en #NewMuslim #FaithJourney #ConvertStory #SpiritualExploration 🌐

https://rahyafteha.ir/en/6056/

🔺Elizabeth, Embracing Islam from Scandinavia 🌍

In an exclusive interview with Rahyafte, the missionaries and converts website, Elizabeth, a 22-year-old Scandinavian with German ethnicity, shares her profound journey to Islam. Born into a family associated with a Christian cult, she converted to Islam over two years ago.

🔍 The Journey to Islam:
Sister Elizabeth, appreciated by the Rahyafte team, delves into her spiritual transformation. Growing up with weak faith, she sought answers throughout her teenage years. In her late teens, she began receiving the answers she longed for, eventually leading her to Islam.

🤝 Choosing Islam:
Elizabeth was drawn to Islam due to its belief in One God and acknowledgment of all the Prophets mentioned in the Bible. The familiarity of these beliefs made her conversion a logical step, as she already believed in everything that a Muslim embraces.

💡 What Attracted Her to Islam:
The concept of a singular, Almighty, and Most Merciful Allah (swt) appealed to her, contrasting with the 'trinity' concept in Christianity. She found it challenging to justify a belief in a God who is part of a trinity and a man (Jesus) being considered 'God' in Christianity.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family and Social Dynamics:
Elizabeth cautiously shared her conversion with friends and coworkers but hesitated with her family due to past religious experiences. While friends were supportive, her family struggled to understand Islam, influenced by media portrayals. Despite challenges, Elizabeth is currently married.

🕌 Islam in Scandinavia:
Observing an increasing presence of Muslims, Elizabeth notes that Islam is still viewed as foreign. Many harbor misconceptions due to media narratives, and cultural aspects are often mistaken as integral to the religion.

📖 Favorite Quranic Verse:
Elizabeth expresses her love for Surah Al-Ikhlas, finding its significance in monotheism and its comprehensive description of Allah (swt) appealing.

🧕 Views on Hijab:
Initially not understanding the choice to wear hijab, Elizabeth now acknowledges its purpose to please Allah (swt) and protect women. Facing family discomfort, she opts for a turban style. She highlights the importance of both men and women observing modesty.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family in Christianity and Islam:
Having grown up with the notion of male dominance in her Christian family, Elizabeth discovered the equitable rights women have in Islam. Islam emphasizes shared responsibilities between spouses.

🤲 First Prayer and Daily Practices:
Initially finding prayer rituals unfamiliar, Elizabeth soon adapted. Prayer became a source of connection and, despite challenges in the West, is a distinguishing factor between believers and non-believers.

💬 The Beauty of Islam:
Elizabeth attests to finding answers, peace, and a profound sense of gratitude in Islam. She acknowledges the divine planning of Allah (swt) and expresses gratitude for every new day as an opportunity for self-improvement.

🙏 Closing Words:
Expressing gratitude, Elizabeth concludes the interview, thanking Allah (swt) for guidance and blessings. Rahyafte extends wishes for her steadfastness on the true path.

By Bentolhoda Mofakhami 🌐 @rahyafte_en #ConvertStory #JourneyToIslam #MuslimWomen #PeaceInIslam
https://rahyafteha.ir/en/6056/

🌸 Camila Celestino: Embracing Islam, Finding Beauty in Submission 🌸

Meet Camila Celestino, a woman from Brazil, who shares her inspiring journey of conversion to Islam. 🇧🇷

Camila, also known as Narjes, recently spoke with Rahyafte, a platform dedicated to missionaries and new Muslims, shedding light on her unique path to Islam. 🌟

🌺 Background and Early Life:
Camila was born in Sao Paulo in 1992 to a Catholic Christian family. Her journey to Islam began when she explored her birthdate, realizing it coincided with the auspicious occasion of #MidSha'ban. Thus, her Islamic name became Narjes. ✨

🤔 Questioning Christianity:
Growing up, Camila wasn't deeply connected to Christianity. Her perspective changed when her mother fell seriously ill. Unable to find answers within Christianity, she turned to atheism, questioning the concepts of the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus.

📚 Introduction to Islam:
Camila's curiosity about Islam led her to a Lebanese acquaintance who gave her a book titled "Islam, the Prophet, and the Ahlul Bayt." Initially, she had no intention of converting, but as she delved into the book, the beauty of Islamic teachings captivated her.

🤯 Awakening to Truth:
Reading about Allah in Islam made her realize the oneness of God, similar to the teachings in the Torah and the Bible. The life of Imam Hussein, especially, left an indelible mark on her, making it impossible to deny the existence of God. After six months of thorough research, Camila embraced Islam at the Mosque of Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, in Sao Paulo.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family's Acceptance:
Surprisingly, Camila's conversion brought joy to her mother, who had struggled with Camila's earlier atheism. Her family, while not yet Muslim, respects and supports her decision, asking questions about Islam and even waking her up for prayers when she was in Brazil.

🌙 Adapting to Islamic Practices:
For Camila, the excitement of embracing Islamic practices, especially fasting during Ramadan, was a fulfilling experience. Fasting in Islam, with its unique spiritual dimensions, brought her closer to Allah, enhancing the joy of her newfound faith.

🇮🇷 Encounter with Challenges in Iran:
Sharing her experience of fasting in Iran, Camila highlighted the physical challenges of enduring an 18-hour fast in the heat. However, she sees the difficulty as an opportunity for a more profound spiritual connection.

🧕 Navigating Post-Conversion Challenges:
Wearing the hijab brought challenges, particularly due to the cost of scarves. Camila faced mockery and inappropriate comments in Brazil but remained resilient. Anti-Islam propaganda, unfortunately, remains prevalent.

💖 Discovering Beauty in Islam:
For Camila, the beauty of Islam lies in its worship – prayers and fasting. The call to prayer (Adhan) and the emotional depth of prayers like Dua Kumayl and Sahifa Sajjadiya resonate with her heart, making her journey profoundly beautiful.

🌟 Admiration for the Supreme Leader:
Upon conversion, Camila encountered the image of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution. Despite being unfamiliar, she was deeply moved, choosing him as her religious authority.

🌈 Spreading the Light of Islam:
Camila's ultimate goal is to return to Brazil and showcase the true essence of Islam. Even if her family doesn't convert, she hopes to earn their respect for Islam.

🌐 Follow Camila's Journey: @rahyafte_en

📖 Original Interview (in Persian): Rahyafteha.ir/51484/

#NewMuslim #JourneyToIslam #Inspiration #IslamicBeauty #ConvertStory #CamilaCelestino #Narjes #Rahyaftegan 🌹

The lady from El Salvador embraced Islam and took her Shahada on the Friday before the blessed month of Ramadan, thus embarking on her journey as a Muslim. 🌟 She entered the month of Ramadan with newfound faith and determination. 🌙 #NewMuslim #RamadanJourney #EmbraceIslam #ConvertStory

♦ Lubov (Lily), a Russian Convert

I found answers to my questions in the Quran. It not only addressed my queries but also gave direction to my life. It provided me with a holistic vision, creating a sense of harmony within.

🌐 @rahyafte_en
rahyafteha.ir/38843/
#FaithJourney #Islam #InnerPeace #ConvertStory

Part 2

Whenever I had time to think, I began speaking directly to God, asking, "If You really exist, why is everything so unclear to me?"

It started as a one-sided conversation, then turned into a direct plea: "If You exist and hear me, give me a sign." I wanted a sign, and I got one; from that day on, I was fully convinced that a Creator exists.

Once I was sure of the existence of a Creator, I realized that many people believe in this in different ways. I began to explore what different religions said about God and this life.

I bought books on the five major religions: Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism. I started by reading these books, comparing them, and asking myself which aligned with my understanding of God and my feelings.

Buddhism and Hinduism were quickly ruled out. Among the three monotheistic religions, I examined Judaism first and set it aside. Then I focused on Islam and Christianity, comparing them.

What I needed were answers to my questions. I found those answers in the Quran, which not only answered my questions but also gave direction to my life. It provided a holistic view, bringing a sense of harmony within me.

As I approached the end of my studies, I spent a lot of time with friends and colleagues. One night, as I sat outside, I asked myself, "If you continue with this life, will you be happy?" The thought troubled me because I had no satisfying answer.

The next day, I had a train journey and was waiting at the station. It was a sunny day, and I realized that fear was holding me back. I had built a wall around myself, afraid to take the next step. As I stood on the platform, looking at the tracks below, I felt like I was standing at the edge of a dark abyss, filled with emptiness. This realization made me very sad.

Approaching my 18th birthday, I had chosen a religion but hadn't taken any steps forward. I was standing at the gate but hadn't entered, afraid to walk the path I knew was right. When you know the right way but don't have the courage to follow it, it's like betraying yourself.

I boarded the train, tears streaming down my face. From a distance, I saw a blind man sitting on a four-seat section, marked by an armband. I clearly remember thinking how fortunate it was that he couldn't see my tears. I watched as he touched his watch to check the time and listened to a text message he received, later telling me it was a poem sent to him. I marveled at this blind man, full of life, sending poems to his friends, while I, in the prime of my youth and health, was struggling to find peace with life. I admired him greatly.

As we traveled, at the next station, I saw a boy standing outside my window, holding a woman's hand. He was also blind. Doubts crept in—I thought, "I travel by train often, but I've never noticed blind people at the station before." At the following station, on the same platform, but for a different train, stood a Black man, also blind, holding a woman's hand. In that moment, it hit me: perhaps I was the one who had been blind until now. This realization opened my eyes.

A few days later, through a Muslim friend, I learned of an event at a mosque. I decided to take the first step. We went together to the event, which lasted three days. There, in front of the mosque, I wore a headscarf for the first time with the help of my friend. I spent three days in that mosque, and it was a new world for me, one I had never experienced before. I had never been to a mosque, seen Muslims pray, or known anyone who practiced Islam. Those three days had a profound impact on me. After returning home, I no longer wanted to remove my hijab.

🌐 @rahyafte_en
rahyafteha.ir/38843/
#ConvertStory #FaithInGod #Islam #NewBeginnings

🆕 Lisa Zaynab Killinger, a new Muslim from America, says:

"Islam is a religion of intellect and wisdom..."

https://rahyafteha.ir/19418/
#NewMuslim #Islam #Wisdom #ConvertStory #Rahyafte 🌐 @rahyafte_en

🔸 Interesting Remarks by a Newly Converted Doctor about Women in Islam

According to Rahyafte (The Comprehensive Platform for Islamic Propagation and New Muslims), Dr. Lisa (Zaynab) Killinger, a radiologist from Davenport, Iowa, became curious about Islam after meeting people in a restaurant who refrained from eating pork. After a year of studying Islam and visiting mosques and churches, she officially embraced Islam on the first day of Ramadan in 1979. Now, she is an advocate for Islam, speaking at seminars and responding to misconceptions about the religion.

During one seminar, she discussed women’s rights in Islam, saying:

💠 “In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
Islam is a religion of intellect and wisdom. Women who embrace Islam seek chastity, higher education, social and economic involvement, and a loving relationship with God. 1,400 years ago, people buried their daughters alive, but Islam stood against this. Even today, some countries allow only one child per family, killing female children to preserve family names. Islam came with a new message: justice and truth. Women and men are brothers and sisters in Islam, and there is no superiority in race or color. If women are oppressed, it’s due to ignorance, and they must learn their rights."

🔹 *“Allah is the God of Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them). Some people fear Muslims’ God because they associate the phrase 'Allahu Akbar' with violence they see in the media. But 'Allah' is simply the Arabic word for God, the same God worshipped in Judaism and Christianity. We believe in a merciful God who never overlooked the rights of women.”

🔸 “Islam gave women the right to vote long before America did. Until the 19th century, women here had no right to vote, and were often deprived of inheritance. Islam not only grants women these rights but also makes the pursuit of knowledge obligatory for both men and women. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, ‘Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim man and woman.’”

💠 “Islam began with the command 'Read': 'Read in the name of your Lord who created.' One of the first female doctors in Islam, Al-Shifa, was a healer during the Prophet’s time. She was allowed to treat the wounded in battle. Women must seek higher education to contribute to society. Modesty is also a common value across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Orthodox Jewish women also wear headscarves. Muslim women aren’t different in this regard.”

🔹 “Both men and women must be modest, in both dress and behavior. Modesty is an internal commitment as much as an external one. Muslim men, too, must dress modestly. The Qur'an guides us to chastity, and this must come from the heart."

💠 “Islam does not prohibit women from trade, just as Khadijah (peace be upon her), the wife of the Prophet, was a businesswoman. Women are free to participate in society and share their opinions.”

🔸 “Islam has prohibited alcohol, which causes 75% of crimes in America. Islam also bans gambling, which impoverishes people. Alcohol and gambling destroy families, which is why they are forbidden in Islam. As for polygamy, Islam permits it only under strict conditions and for the sake of justice.”

🔹 “We must raise awareness about women’s rights in Islam and share this knowledge with non-Muslims. Why do more women than men convert to Islam in America? Because Islam defends women’s rights. After 9/11, I faced challenges, but I used the opportunity to engage in dialogue with non-Muslims. We should always follow the Prophet’s advice and offer a smile to others. Wise and rational conversations are the best way to introduce Islam.”

#WomenInIslam #IslamicRights #ConvertStory #IslamicWisdom 🌐 @rahyafte_en

How Did Jonathan Williams Convert to Islam and Become a Shia?

According to Rahyafte (The Comprehensive Database for Converts and New Muslims), I was born in Hattiesburg, a city in the state of Mississippi, USA. My name is Rafi, but before converting to Islam, I was known as Jonathan Williams. I embraced Islam in 1991 while I was serving in the military. Born in America to Christian parents—my father was Pentecostal and my mother was Baptist—I started attending church at the age of five, although my parents were not very religious. My mother passed away in 2003.

After my military service, I returned to my hometown for a short time before moving to North Carolina, where I converted to Islam. Since then, I've been practicing Islam for over half of my life. As a child, I didn't like the loud, jubilant shouts of the Baptist preachers; they were even frightening for children. I left the church in my teenage years. Although I was quite religious, I wouldn't say I was a very good Christian. I believed in God but couldn't accept the concept of the Trinity. I didn't see the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as three persons in one God.

In 1988, after graduating from high school and during my first year of military service, I attended gatherings where there was alcohol and other things. I wanted to change my life after my military service, so I returned to the church. However, attending church services on Sundays and Wednesdays became repetitive. Even after spending hours in the church, I still couldn't accept Christian beliefs like the Trinity, so I returned to my old ways.

One of my mother's friends, who was Muslim, suggested that I learn about Islam. In Mississippi, people would say, "Islam is a religion of fear, and this Allah is different from other gods. He only commands and punishes. Islam is the religion of idol worshipers." When my friend told me to study Islam, I said, "Muslims don't believe in God." But he replied, "No, we believe in God. Study Islam."

I started reading Islamic books. When I read the Quran, it felt like I was studying the history of all the prophets: Adam, Moses, Noah, Abraham, and a new prophet named Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family). I thought to myself, "This is a religion I can accept. Islam is the religion of monotheism. God is one and has no partners." I accepted Islam in my heart, and about a month after studying the Quran, I recited the Shahada and became a Muslim.

Converting to a new religion is a pivotal moment in one's life. I converted to Islam in 1991. At that time, I was familiar with Sunnis but knew nothing about the Shia-Sunni differences because I was only 21 years old and a new Muslim. One day, a Muslim asked me, "Are you Shia or Sunni?" I hadn't even heard the name Shia until then. He gave me a book on the history of Islam after the Prophet Muhammad. Alhamdulillah, I became a Shia because the Prophet Muhammad asked us to follow Ali (peace be upon him) and his descendants.

#ConvertStory #JourneyToIslam #NewMuslim #Shia #Islam #Monotheism
🌐 @rahyafte_en

🔺 Professor Najeeb Muhammad Rasool, a newly converted Filipino Muslim:

"I realized that what is called 'God' in Islam is truly the Absolute Oneness. This was the religion I had been searching for—Absolute Unity..."

#Islam #Monotheism #AbsoluteOneness #ConvertStory #TruthJourney

🌐 @rahyafte_en

Micheal Wolfe, an American poet, writer, and #NewMuslim:

✅ "I was searching for an escape from the isolating conditions of a materialistic culture…"

#Islam #SpiritualJourney #ConvertStory
🌐 @rahyafte_en

rahyafteha.ir/18268

Fernando (Jafar) Soto – A Newly Converted Muslim from Argentina ✨🇦🇷

✅ For me, Islam is the path to a better life and becoming a better human being...

🔗 Read more: rahyafteha.ir/27543

#NewMuslim #Islam #Faith #Inspiration #ConvertStory

🌐 @rahyafte_en

"I Am a Seeker Who Has Discovered a World Full of Beauty" ✨

📝 Fernando (Jafar) Soto – A Spanish-Speaking Revert to Islam

📌 Reported by Rahyafte (Comprehensive Platform for Reverts and Muslim Preachers)
📍 Compiled by: Setareh Sadeghi

🔹 Introducing Myself:
My name is Fernando Jafar Soto, I am 31 years old, from Argentina. I was born in Buenos Aires but live in San Miguel, in the province of Buenos Aires. It has been four years since I embraced Islam. I follow the Twelver Shia school of thought and work as a history teacher in several high schools, as well as conducting political science and civic education classes for adults.

🔹 How Did I First Learn About Islam?
I was introduced to Islam through the works of classical scholars such as Ibn Rushd (Averroes). I have always admired the contributions of Islamic civilization to humanity. Later, I began reading contemporary scholars who explored metaphysics from a modern perspective, such as René Guénon. Through Guénon's writings, I developed a more scientific approach to Islam.

🔹 How and When Did I Convert to Islam?
Before embracing Islam, my lifestyle had already begun to change. Years before converting, I had stopped drinking alcohol. Islam further guided my focus toward essential matters such as the philosophy of existence, love for God and His creation, intellectual growth, and social responsibility.
Islam refined me, just as a sculptor polishes a statue. It granted me tranquility amidst the complexities of life. I am a seeker who has discovered a world full of beauty.
Being born into a Christian society, among faithful believers, was also a factor that led me toward Islam.

🔹 Why Did I Choose the Name 'Jafar'?
Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (AS) was a great leader and a source of inspiration for me. He was a Twelver Shia scholar who trained thousands of students. Since I have chosen the same path of learning and am responsible for educating my own students, I wanted to honor him. I felt that selecting his name as a teacher would be a meaningful tribute.

🔹 My Role Models in Islam
My inspirations are the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Infallible Imams, and particularly Imam Hussain (AS).
Imam Hussain represents true chivalry, loyalty, and struggle for a noble cause—a cause that the modern world has largely forgotten, replacing it with materialism.
In contemporary times, I also find great inspiration in Imam Khomeini. He was a revolutionary, a teacher, and a mystic—a figure comparable to Ibn Arabi—but most importantly, he was the greatest Muslim of our era.

🔹 My Thoughts on Imam Khomeini and the Islamic Revolution
The Islamic Revolution was a remarkable movement aimed at restoring moral and social values. It serves as a model for oppressed nations seeking liberation from colonialism and tyranny.

📖 Read More: rahyafteha.ir/27543

#NewMuslim #Islam #Faith #ConvertStory #SpiritualJourney #ImamHussain #IslamicRevolution #JafarSadiq

🌐 Follow us: @rahyafte_en

✨ A Journey to Faith: The Story of Robert Salman Raico ✨

🕊️ From Catholicism to Islam, guided by divine wisdom!

📖 "For a long time, I was searching for the truth. Christianity left many unanswered questions in my mind. I studied Buddhism, Hinduism, and other Eastern philosophies, but my heart still longed for something deeper. Eventually, my research led me to Islam. The more I read, the more I was convinced that Shia Islam was the complete path."

🔹 Why Shi'a Islam?
✅ Unlike other sects, I found unity in both the inner and outer aspects of Shi’a teachings.
✅ The belief in Imam Mahdi (aj) deeply resonated with me. Other religions await a savior, but in Shi'a Islam, the Imam is already present—just like the sun behind the clouds, guiding us with his light.

🔹 The Role of Divine Guidance
"Before embracing Islam, I had a dream where I felt someone was guiding me toward Iran and Islam. That dream encouraged me to explore further. By God’s will, I accepted Islam and the path of Ahlul Bayt (as)."

🔹 The Influence of Henry Corbin
"I didn’t know any scholars at first, but a friend introduced me to the works of Professor Henry Corbin. His deep knowledge of Islamic mysticism and Shi’a teachings helped me discover the truth about Ahlul Bayt (as)."

🔹 Facing Family Reactions
"My father, a devout Catholic, was initially upset. He had hoped for one of his sons to become a priest. However, over time, his views softened. Near the end of his life, he even expressed a desire to become Muslim, but unfortunately, he passed away before saying the Shahada."

🔹 Islamophobia & Da’wah in Italy
🔸 Islamophobia exists, but Italy is more tolerant than France.
🔸 Wahhabi groups, backed by Saudi funds, are active, but their Arabic-language preaching limits their influence.
🔸 The best way to represent Islam is through ethics and good character. As a scholar once told me: "You are an ambassador of Islam in Italy—people will judge Islam by your behavior."

🔹 A Special Memory About Imam Mahdi (aj)
"A few weeks before I became Muslim, I felt as if Imam Mahdi (aj) was always with me, wherever I went. I could sense his presence, and it brought me immense happiness. It was a beautiful, uplifting feeling. Later, after accepting Islam, I understood that this spiritual connection between Imam Mahdi (aj) and Muslims is real. Since then, I have always turned to him in times of need because he is the living proof of God on Earth. According to the sayings of the Imams (as), we must establish a bond with him and seek his intercession."

🔹 Advice for Iranian Youth
"It surprises me that many Iranian youth are unaware of the rich spiritual heritage they possess. They sit on a treasure yet look toward the West, thinking they are missing out. In reality, true freedom is found in the divine wisdom of Islam, not in Western materialism."

🌍 Let’s spread the truth with knowledge and kindness! 🕊️
#Islam #Shia #Robert_Salman_Raico #ConvertStory #TruthSeeker #ImamMahdi #IslamInTheWest #HenryCorbin #Dawah

@rahyafte_en