Shakir's Journey to Islam
Shakir
France
Previous Religion: None
My Life Before Islam
Vagueness and Lack of Direction: Shakir describes his life before Islam as difficult and full of confusion. He lived without clear landmarks, following passions that led him in conflicting directions without ever feeling satisfied or internally stable.
Academic Background: Shakir is a highly educated French youth. He obtained a Master's degree in Political Science in Paris and then pursued another Master's in the Science of Civilizations in Istanbul, reflecting his passion for research and knowledge.
A Multicultural Environment: Growing up in a diverse French environment, he had Muslim friends since school. However, he didn't start seriously researching Islam until he moved to university and felt a sense of independence away from the family circle.
The Moment of Guidance
First Encounter with the Quran: Shakir began reading the Quran late in his search. He started with Surah Al-Baqarah in French and was struck by the verses discussing the creation of Adam and the angels questioning Allah about the wisdom of creating humans who might cause corruption. He was amazed that the Quran addresses such deep existential questions.
The First Prostration (Sajdah): Before officially converting, Shakir wanted to "taste" Islam. He asked his friend (Ibrahim) to let him join the prayer. When he put his forehead on the ground for the first time, he felt all his past worries and questions vanish, as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
The Day of Testing: One day, Shakir tried to convince himself not to convert to Islam just to see how he would feel. He described that day as "abominable and terrible," filled with doubts, which confirmed to him that Islam was the only path to peace.
Reflections
The Concept of "The Ever-Living" (Al-Hayy): Shakir was deeply moved by the attribute of Allah as "The Ever-Living." He realized that everything from the smallest insect to the largest galaxy has a beginning and an end, necessitating an Ever-Living Creator who continuously sustains the universe.
Learning Quran and Tajweed: Shakir put great effort into learning the pronunciation of the Quran and the rules of Tajweed in Turkey. He studied with an Imam who read with him every night between Maghrib and Isha, and he remains deeply grateful for that guidance.
A Message to Arabs: Shakir delivers a poignant message to Arab Muslims, telling them they hold a "magnificent treasure"—the Arabic language. He says, "We who don't know Arabic try to live Islam deeply despite the language barrier. What about you, who understand every word the Imam says and every meaning in the Quran? Do not neglect this treasure."
True Happiness: Shakir asserts that philosophies claiming happiness does not exist are wrong. He believes true happiness and tranquility exist and that he, along with millions of others, found them through the connection with God in Islam.