From Today I Have Stopped Praying to My Parents Who Died, “I Will Pray to One God”

In most parts of the villages in Malawi, traditional ways of practice are deeply ingrained. Ancestral worship, belief in the power of deceased relatives to influence daily life, and rituals involving appeasing spirits are commonplace. Yet, for some, a yearning for clarity and a deeper understanding of the divine leads to a profound transformation.

One such story unfolds in a Malawian village where a curious elder engages with representatives from the iERA Malawi office. Their message of a single, all-powerful God intrigues him, prompting further discussions. The elder, steeped in tradition, believes that rainfall and good fortune depend on appeasing ancestral spirits, often through practices that may involve alcohol or other elements.

The iERA representatives gently challenge these beliefs, turning to the Quran for guidance. They recite a powerful verse from Surah Al-Hajj:

“O humanity, an example is presented to you, so listen to it. Indeed, those whom you invoke besides Allah will never create [even] a fly, even if they combined in their effort for it. And if the fly steals something from them, they cannot recover it from it. Weak is the pursuer, and weak is the pursued.” (Quran 22:73)

The clarity of this verse strikes a chord with the elder. It highlights the limitations of idols and the futility of seeking blessings from those who have no power over creation. The iERA representatives further explain the Islamic concept of the afterlife, emphasizing that the deceased cannot influence the lives of the living.

Deeply moved by the Quran’s message, the elder felt a shift in his perspective. He recognizes the logic and truth in Islam’s teachings. Guided by the iERA representatives, he declares his Shahada, marking his official conversion to Islam. His newfound faith fills him with a sense of peace and clarity, and he embarks on a journey to deepen his understanding of his new path.

This story demonstrates how the Quran’s wisdom and clarity can illuminate hearts and minds, guiding individuals away from traditional practices and towards a more profound understanding of the divine.