Under the warm Ugandan sun, Brian, a renowned grower of groundnuts, was completely absorbed in his labor. He worked the rich earth of his garden alongside his wife, their hands moving with the practiced rhythm of dedication. It was in this fertile, familiar place that the iERA Uganda outreach specialists found him. They approached Masaba, requesting a moment of his time, which he graciously obliged, wiping the sweat from his brow and leaning on his hoe.
The conversation began simply but profoundly, with the duats explaining the inherent goodness of believing and worshipping one God. Brian listened intently, and a memory surfaced. He shared how his exposure to Islam began years ago during a visit to Kenya, Uganda’s neighbor, where he was struck by the exemplary behavior and discipline of the Islamic community he encountered there.
With his curiosity piqued, Brian cut to the core of his concern: “If I were to become a Muslim, would it not interrupt my normal life? I see Muslims going to the mosque every time.” He was a man defined by his work, and the thought of frequent, scheduled prayers seemed like a hurdle to his livelihood.
The duats, realizing the depth of his commitment to his farm, offered a gentle yet powerful reassurance. They explained that far from interrupting his life, Islam actively encourages hard work and earning a lawful living. They clarified that while Muslims do pray five times a day, these moments of connection with God do not halt labor; instead, they ensure it is blessed and prosperous. Prayer is a break that recharges the soul and invites divine success into the efforts of the body.
Brian was visibly moved by their words—a faith that sanctified his daily grind, rather than distracting from it, resonated deeply with his spirit. Turning to his wife, he called her over to join the conversation, eager for her to share in the clarity and comfort the duats offered.
After a thorough explanation covering the core tenets of the faith, the moment arrived. Brian, convinced of the truth and assured that his faith would only enhance his life’s work, embraced Islam. He joyfully took the Shahada, the testimony of faith, and adopted the name: Abdul Rahman (The Servant of the Most Merciful). In the quiet sanctuary of his groundnut garden, Brian became a new Muslim, ready to cultivate not just the earth, but his newly blossoming faith.
