As the iERA dedicated da’ees set out early in the morning for door-to-door da’wah in one of the villages, they prayed that Allah would open hearts to His guidance. Among the people they met was Irene, a devoted Catholic who confidently declared that she would never embrace Islam. She believed Islam was too difficult to practice and admitted that she had long held negative views about the religion.
With patience, kindness, and wisdom, the da’ees listened to her concerns before sharing the beautiful message of Islam. Irene explained that one of the reasons she disliked Islam was because she believed Muslims were against Jesus, whom she regarded as the Son of God.
The da’ees gently clarified this common misconception. They explained that Islam holds Jesus (peace be upon him) in the highest honor as one of the greatest messengers of Allah. They spoke about how Muslims love and respect Jesus, believe in his miraculous birth, and strive to follow his example in worship. They pointed out similarities in prophetic traditions, such as bowing and prostrating in prayer and removing shoes in places of worship.
As the conversation continued, Irene listened attentively. The respectful and thoughtful discussion challenged many of the misconceptions she had held about Islam.
She then asked an important question: “If Muslims love Jesus so much, why don’t they believe he is the Son of God?”
The da’ees carefully explained the Islamic belief in the absolute oneness of God. They shared that Allah is the Creator of everything and everyone. He neither begets nor is begotten, but created by His command. They explained that Jesus, like Adam, was a miraculous creation of God and a noble prophet sent to guide humanity to worship the One True God.
Their explanation deeply touched Irene’s heart. She reflected on what she had heard and felt a desire to learn more about Islam. Moved by the clarity of the message and the sincerity of the da’ees, she chose to embrace Islam by sincerely reciting the Shahada, the declaration of faith.
Filled with joy and hope, Irene adopted the beautiful name Mariam. She also expressed her commitment to continue seeking knowledge about Islam, leaving behind the misconceptions she once believed and striving to grow in her new faith.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that sincere dialogue, compassion, and wisdom can open hearts to the truth. May Allah keep Sister Mariam steadfast upon Islam, increase her in knowledge, and make her story a source of inspiration for many others seeking the truth.
