INTERVIEW: A REVERT SISTER'S BEAUTIFUL 13-YEAR JOURNEY OF ACCEPTING ISLAM

I have been way back in updating the blog and this interview I had with Sister Samar should have been published at least a month ago but I was so caught up with some other work, I hardly had the time. Sorry for the delay Sister and Jazakallah khair for your patience and of course, your lovely interview.

You can find Sister Samar's website here: www.yezarck.co.uk

What was your reason that inspired you to start researching about Islam?

I had always known a lot of Muslims growing up; Muslim neighbours, Muslim friends at school etc. Growing up, I felt a sense of closeness to Muslims because being brought up in a strict Christian home, Muslims were the only other people I would really see taking their religion seriously on a whole. They would pray and fast which is something my family and church did regularly. I found that most of my Christian friends from school did not take these things seriously or when I spoke to them about religion they didn't see it as something important. I'm not saying all the Muslims I knew were so religious but there was a certain respect they had for religion in general which I admired.

When I started college, I decided I wanted to fast alongside Muslim friends because I spent so much time with them I didn't want to be eating when they weren't. Also at that time the days were short so it wasn't hard at all. I fasted for about 3 Ramadans before taking shahada and I hadn't thought at all about becoming a Muslim until just before my last Ramadan as a non Muslim.

I had always wondered why Muslims believed in Jesus but don't accept him as a god. It wasn't until one day I got into a conversation with my Muslim neighbour and friend about Jesus dying for us to save us from sin that I would get any answers. He listened to me attentively and I was impressed that he wasn't offended to hear my religious views. When I had finished he smiled and asked me if I would like to know the islamic perspective? I happily said yes as I was thinking that if I understood that, I would be able to help Muslims understand where they were clearly mistaken that Jesus is a Prophet. So he gave me a book called 'The True Message Of Jesus Christ ' by Bilal Philips. It's a small book maybe 100 pages or so. I took it home and started reading it and was only half of the way through when it dawned on me that I needed to become a Muslim. I couldn't argue with the facts. I had never had any previous issue with Christianity and believing that Jesus was gods son and saviour for mankind but reading this book the islamic perspective made a lot more sense.

How long was after you started learning about Islam that you decided to accept Islam?

I think it may gave been a couple of weeks as there were a few other things I had wanted to ask about. But once those questions were answered and I continued to read more and more books I was sure about my decision. Any other Muslims I met at that time I would tell them that I was a Muslim too. I wasn't practicing, I didn't know how to pray and I was still a party girl, but I believed. At that time I knew a lot of non practicing Muslims. It wasn't until a few months later that a close friend whom I hadn't seen for a few months because she had left London to go to uni contacted me, and lo and behold, she also had been learning about Islam and wanted to become a Muslim too! I was so excited and we decided to take shahada together. So I planned to go to Leeds in a couple of weeks. At the time I really didn't understand the big deal with shahada because as far as I was concerned I was a Muslim. After taking shahada a week after my friend (she couldn't wait for me she said because it was explained to her it was better not to delay as death can come at any time) I really started to try and implement deen. I started learning to pray, going to mosque for lessons and after a few months I told my parents and then started wearing a scarf.

What was the first most beautiful thing you discovered about Islam?

The beauty of Iman (faith) and the Oneness of Allah. There really isn't anything more beautiful than that. So much depth in it. The fact that even though Allah is not a part of His creation He cares for us and we have a direct connection with him without any intercessor or intermediate.

If there are people out there researching about Islam, what advice would you give them?

Try to learn Islam from practicing Muslims or even non practicing Muslims who are sincere and honest. What I mean by that is that they will straight up tell you if the way they live is not islamic and will try to find out for you answers to your questions without just giving you an answer to look good in front of you. That goes for if they are practicing islam properly or not. Also don't blame Islam for the bad that Muslims do. Have an open mind and ask for God's guidance the best way you know how and in whatever language you speak. God knows us better than we know ourselves.

How did you talk to your family about your decision to become a Muslim?

It wasn't easy being from a religious Christian family. I simply had to sit them down and tell them. It really didn't go down well but Alhamdolillah it wasn't an extreme case where they kicked me out or anything like that. Just really uncomfortable living at home for a while. I had taken shahada in April 2002, I told them a few months later in June I think and the same year I left for uni. I got married the following year and it did help family relations a lot Alhamdolillah. My parents began to accept my new lifestyle. Alhamdolillah.

It has been 13 year since you accepted Islam. How has your journey been?

Alhamdolillah for everything. It has been good. Twist and turns, ups and downs, but that's life. As a Muslim I can go through life's changes with the knowledge that everything is a test from Allah.

What was the greatest challenge that you faced after converting to Islam?

Hm. I don't really know. I think the change in relationship between cousins is difficult, specifically male cousins because I can't treat them as my brothers anymore. I find that quite awkward and as far as I know I'm still the only Muslim in my family so that is hard. It does make me feel like an outsider sometimes but Alhamdolillah my family are very understanding and supportive. After 13 years practicing they know it's not some phase I'm going through- it's just my way of life. Alhamdolillah.

Did you start wearing the Hijab right after you accepted Islam? How was your experience?

When I told my parents I had become a Muslim, I started wearing a headscarf with my still tight clothes. Slowly I started wearing looser and looser clothes - long tunic tops with trousers, then with skirts. Sometimes I would try wearing jilbabs until I gave up trying to cover up with so many different items of clothing and stick to jilbab full time Alhamdolillah. I think it was maybe 4 years before that happened.

Was it long before you started wearing the Niqab? And what inspired you to do so?

I started wearing it about a year after wearing jilbab full time. I had wanted to wear it since my early days of being a Muslim and going to Brixton mosque and meeting so many beautiful sisters from so many different backgrounds all covered up from head to toe. I used to sit and learn from them completely in awe thinking how amazing they were and hoping to be able to have the courage to cover up like that.

Was it a difficult transition for you to go from a Hijabi to a Niqabi?

Hm. Yes and no. From my side it was something I wanted so I was sure about doing it. It was my lifestyle and lack of support in the earlier years that I think prevented me from doing it earlier. I had moved up north and didn't really know any sisters wearing it. Also at the time I didn't have that support from my husband to do so.

A question I get asked all the time is if wearing the Niqab is difficult. How would you describe your experience?

Alhamdolillah since the first day I put it on it has been easy. I made a lot of dua about wearing it, asking Allah to purify my intention and make it easy. Alhamdolillah, since the first day I put it on to try it I have never left it. I have tried all types of badly made niqab that I could barely breath to now very comfortable breathable flowing ones that I forget I have on Alhamdolillah.

Any special Hadith or Quranic verse that has always been very special for you?

In Surah At-Talaq: 2-3: And for those who fear Allah He prepares for them a way out. And He provides for him from sources he could never imagine. And if anyone puts his trust in Allah, sufficient is Allah for him. For Allah will surely accomplish His purpose: Allah has already appointed due proportion.

I cannot stress how true this is. Anytime I hear or read this Ayah my heart just says "Yes" in affirmation.

If there are any non-Muslim reading this, what would you tell them?

Islam is perfect the Muslims are not.

And finally, how would you describe the changes you see in yourself after accepting Islam? 

Alhamdolillah I think I have a lot more patience and understanding and I don't get angry about things like I used to. I'm not perfect but I try to work on my character. Allah says to show mercy to others in the hope that he will show mercy to us on the day of judgement.

Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.

INTERVIEW: SISTER SEEKING KNOWLEDGE FINDS SO MUCH MORE THAN PEACE

Interview with sister Ameena Nour. MashaAllah, this is a really entertaining and insightful interview we had with a Muslimah revert from US. Jazakallah khair for offering to be interviewed and may Allah make your words a means of inspiration for those reading.

How was your life before accepting Islam?

I was raised as an agnostic. We went to church about once a month but more for the free coffee and donuts and nice people not God. My mother (divorced family) always gave us a lecture about questioning all of religion because she didn't know if it was "true". But it was also taboo in American Christian culture to question the inner workings of Christianity. So I was stuck. I wanted to know WHY. I was living in sunny California (Hollywood culture in the extreme!), I graduated high school (2007) and didn't know what to do next. Of course being a "good girl" I started university. Before Islam, my life was ordinary but quickly deteriorating. In university, I found myself making more and more poor choices. Poor friendships, poor relationships, and poor social activities. I had guilt after doing these that I knew I was missing something big in my life, I thought perhaps maybe it was God, so I started looking into many different religions (Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, even Ba'hi)...

Why did you choose to become Muslim?

I didn't choose to become muslim. Let me explain. I wanted to be at peace in my heart. While I was looking into different religions, I would watch lectures on YouTube from the various "Leaders" of that faith. I spent maybe a week on Christianity, maybe a week on Judaism and so on, but one day I was watching an anti-Islam protest on the news (Oct 2008) and a thought came to me like "Islam is not like THAT, it's beautiful." This thought scared me because I hadn't been researching Islam, I really didn't know much more about Islam than any other American that watches the news. I immediately went to YouTube and googled I think "women in Islam"... I watched a 20min lecture from Ahmed Didat (spelling?)... At the end of the video he was saying if anyone thought they wanted to take Shahadah to come up to the stage, about 4 women came up. I swear my heart practically ran out of my chest and tripped over itself in desperation to be there. It wanted to take Shahadah so bad I literally cried out in shock from the physical pain. I was amazed by this reaction but completely trusted my body so I repeated Shahadah with the video, and just started reading and reading about Islam. I really recommend www.Turntoislam.com and the forums are great. I like to think I didn't have a choice, because it was already my destiny from Allah. SubhannahAllah. And I am so glad I trusted myself and my intuition.

Wearing the Hijab is a huge step. Was it a difficult change for you?

Honestly it was not hard for me, because I had read a great article about who deserves to see your beauty. BUT my mom went nuts, to put it nicely. She had a very difficult time accepting this change in me. Cause it was literally an overnight change. I admit looking back I was very hard on her because I was just as mad at her for NOT blindly accepting this change. It was a hard time for me and my family but I would wear the hijab at school, and out running errands, but would take it off around my mom or before I entered the house so she would not see me.

How did you feel the first time you wore the Hijab?

Of course the very first time I tried to put on "the scarf", I had no idea what I was doing. I had a little scarf about 6 inches wide, and a few feet long. And I have a rather large noggin'. Anyway, I just started wrapping it around and I used like five safety pins and at least twenty straight pins to secure it but like my neck was still showing and I couldn't breath easily I had wrapped it so tight.... Needless to say I went and bought a proper longer scarf and went about practicing putting it on while watching YouTube tutorials. If you really want to do it, you should learn from others on how to do it easier.

Wearing it felt natural but many people stared so I was nervous about all the attention because I thought I was doing something bad because I thought Hijab was about not seeking attention. I have since learned the beautiful difference between seeking attention yourself (as American culture teaches women) and others giving you attention without you asking (simply cause you're doing something different). I will admit I also wanted to wear hijab to be... Well arrogant honestly like "look at my scarf, yep I'm Muslim, yep you're not, aren't you jealous??"
I learned that because I was new to the Hijab, I was more aware of the scarf and people looking, but also people in my area never saw a Muslimah before so they stared out of curiosity AND lastly the people that saw me the day before stared because they didn't know WHY I had changed.


Why did you choose to wear the Niqab?

Saudi Arabia was different than the US, to say the least. My mom had been to Saudi in the early 80s and was full of the stories of the area and how horrible it was, especially for the women. (my mom's not Muslim and she had all the stereotypes).

I went as a Muslim but not a very good one. I was so happy to hear the Athan, and see the stores close for prayer, and see the women and men dressing so modestly. I was happy for this. Then I went to Mecca.....

MashaAllah. Let me tell you. There are tons of people from all over the world there at any given time. But some of these people did not get the memo on modest dress. Most I think it was a lack of education about it but the men and women that work in Al-Haram were more than able to explain it without offending. I asked about why all the Saudi's wear the niqab. The answer ended up making me think a lot about what I was doing in my life and what I could do better for Allah.

I have gone through much to much of an inner dialogue to type out. But I could never shake the feeling that I was supposed to wear the niqab. So I did. And I'm so peaceful and so happy.

It's still hard to wear it in the USA with my mom but I did wear it in France ( well the airport at least) (niqab ban my tushy).

After converting, marrying, and covering, I have been blessed with so much peace and happiness. I have even lost a lot of weight (50+kg/100+lbs).

What do you think about the Niqab and how was your experience wearing it?

I remember being with a Muslim sister maybe a year or so after taking Shahadah, shopping at a Muslim grocery/clothing store, they had a small scarf and accessories section. I remember pulling out a single layer NIQAB. I joking held it up and was like look at me! My friend started laughing. I said "oh women who wear THAT are crazy!"

Let's fast forward a little, after I married my husband, he was living/working in Saudi Arabia so I moved overseas to Saudi. This was the first time I'd seen the niqab, seen women using it. It took about three months before I got up the courage to ask my husband what he thought of me wearing it. Alhumdillah he said "I would like that, I didn't think you wanted to wear it so I never asked." I bought a Saudi version with two layers, I even got gloves too so I could really get the point. I wore the niqab for almost a year whilst living in Saudi, till we moved to Algeria (my husband's home country).

You wear the Niqab part-time. Any particular reason for that?

I had moved to Algeria and then moved to the US again shortly there after to give birth to my first baby. Since I was living with my mother again (husband working in Algeria) I couldn't bring myself to wear the niqab in front of her. Though she had by then at least stopped complaining about my Hijab, Mashallah. I moved back to Algeria (April 2014) and didn't put the niqab back on while learning about Algeria culture more. I actually started wearing it again just last week because I missed it and felt Allah would be happy with me to wear it again. I do really love the niqab, MashaAllah.

Any advice you would like to give any non-practicing muslims reading this?

If you mean not practicing the niqab, I would advise you too look at what you can do extra, because when our deeds are weighed on the Day, I would urge you to do every little good thing you can to make sure your good deeds will out weigh the bad. For me, it an extra cloth on my face, for you, it may be different. I'm pretty lazy though so one little cloth extra is much easier for me.

If you mean not practicing, in the whole, I would like to remind you that no one knows when they are going to die. We've seen to many people die unexpectedly, "in their prime". You have the choice now, right now, so why not choose to do something Allah would be pleased with.

3 things every non-Muslim should know about Islam

1) Women are so important and honored its pretty ridiculous. In a good way.
2) God is the one the only and the reason for the seasons!( given its Dec)
3) Islam encourages us to seek knowledge and answer our questions about our religion and life. Other religions want you to have blind faith, to not question why. So I encourage you to ask! You will realize Islam is the truth.

There are lots of people out there who want to accept Islam but something or the other stops them. What would you say to give them that extra push to take the Shahadah?

As the Nike commercial says "Just do it!" Also you may die, so do one thing Allah would be pleased with. And keep learning. Read Qur'an. Read the sunnah. You may realize that you are already Muslim in your heart that saying it in front of others wouldn't change you too much. Be honest with yourself.

What was the greatest challenge you had after accepting Islam?

I needed to be patient with my family, my mother particularly. And I had to learn how to make prayer a priority. I went from "praying" once a week, once a month at church to being commanded to pray 5 times in one day. I was/still have to remind myself to take the 5mins to please Allah.

Was there anything in particular that you were skeptical about before accepting Islam?

Jesus as God, as so many. But also the issues of women in Islam and violence towards others in Islam. Alhumdillah we have the internet these days and all the information and points of view are available from Sheikh Google. Lol.

Any advice for the youth of today?

Learn to seek knowledge from "credible" sources. Mtv and Vogue magazine are not that credible. READ. READ. Read. Learn to listen to the educated not the masses. Ask yourself "Am I doing this thing because the Prophets would do it or because my friends would do it?" And be good to Allah and the Prophets (pbut).

How different is your life after accepting Islam and what changes do you see in yourself?

I have peace in my heart. I know I am following the truth and by striving to live a sunnah life, I am living a life that has benefit to me, my family, and my society. I am not arrogant lazy or self centered now, mashaAllah. I am more productive and organized, MashaAllah. I know what my job is, what my benefit is and what I can do to be helpful. It's a peaceful life. ALHUMDILLAH.

If there is one Quranic verse/Hadith/advice you could give to any non-Muslim reading this, what would it be?

I would say Surah Fatiha is very important. I would encourage you to read it line by line and truly contemplate what it says. I would also say if the non Muslim comes from a Christian background, I would encourage him or her to read Surah Ikhas and Surah Mariam (the Quranic story of Jesus's birth).

Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.

INTERVIEW: HOW A SISTER DISCOVERED THE BEAUTY OF ISLAM

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu,

All praise be to Allah for making us interview so many amazing Muslimahs and I know I've said this before, but seriously, all the interviews we've had on the blog has taught us so much. I love listening to reverts describe how they found Islam and Wallahi, I admire their courage and strength so very much. 

Here is an interview we had with a sister. Do make sure you read all the way to end, and particularly the answer she gave to the 7th question.

Jazakallah khair for the amazing interview sister!



1- Tell us your story of how you found Islam

Ever since I was a young teenager I was dissatisfied with the religion in which I was raised. I have been brought up as a Christian, but felt that it was not correct for a variety if reasons. When I was around 13, I began seeking out other religions. Of course my family didn't approve of that, so I stopped my search for several years. When I was about 16 I began researching religions again. After a year of researching Christian sects I started Researching Islam when I was 17. I think part of the reason for my interest in Islam was because of a vacation to Minneapolis, Minnesota. While I was there, I saw many Muslims, including a group of women who were dressed in such a way that you couldn't see even a centimeter of skin, even their eyes were covered. I think my curiosity of those women inspired me to begin studying Islam. I had only read 1 book about Islam when I knew that I wanted to be a Muslim Alhumdulilah.


2- You accepted Islam at a young age. How tough was it for you?

It was difficult because at the time I was not able to tell my family or friends. Alhumdulilah my family didn't eat pork very much, so it was easy to avoid that without any suspicion, and I was able to keep ramadan fasting a secret as well. One of the things that was hardest was dealing with my circle of friends after converting. Alhumdulillah Allah protected me from the party scene and I didn't drink or do drugs, but many of my friends did and I hated hearing them tell stories about things that happened at parties. I slowly stopped talking to them and by the end of high school I was left without any friends.

3- If there is one thing you could tell your 15 year old self, what would that be?

There are so many things I wish I could tell myself. First I would tell myself to study Islam sooner and to be brave and tell my family immediately so that I could practice openly. I would also tell myself to care more about my grades and going to college and to take care of my health. And to be patient regarding marriage.

4- With so much of anti- Islamic talk circulating around the media, how did you feel 
about this when accepting Islam?

At the time there wasn't quite as much anti-Islamic rhetoric, but when I did hear it I thought it couldn't be true. There were so many Muslims in the world, not all of them could be bad. I always preferred to look for the best in people.

5- Women's rights in Islam is probably one of the most distorted misconceptions in Islam. What do you have to say about this?

The misconceptions drive me crazy! I wish that non-Muslims could see how Islam liberates and honors women. Alhumdulilah we are so blessed to be Muslim. We have so many rights that non-Muslim women don't have. For example our rights over our husbands. Non-Muslim women are expected to work and bring home an income as well as being the primary caregiver for her children and household but our husbands take care of us. We can work if we want to and if we do the money is ours to keep. Alhumdulilah I love the rights that Allah has given us.

6- What was your opinion about Muslims before you started researching about Islam?

Before I began researching Islam I really didn't know anything about Islam. I had heard some bad things from the media, but didn't believe those things were true because like I said before, I preferred to think the best of people.

7- How difficult was it right after accepting Islam and how would you advice new Muslims to face this challenge?

For me it was very difficult. I lived in a rural place where I was literally the only Muslim in town. The Muslims in the next town didn't want to associate with me because I was young. It was difficult for me to order Islamic books and materials online since I didn't have a lot of money, and I couldn't find any Islamic books in my library. 

I would advice new Muslims to just be patient and ask Allah to help you. I also would like to advise Muslims to help people who have recently taken shahadah. The ansar opened their homes to the Meccans but today we can't even invite someone to have coffee with us. Some of us can't even make a simple phone call! May Allah forgive us and guide us.

8- You are a Niqabi so was there anything in particular that inspired you to wear it?

Before I became Muslim I had gone to visit relatives in Minneapolis and while I was there I saw a group of 3 women wearing niqab, gloves and even covering their eyes. I was always curious about why they did that, and after becoming Muslim and reading a little bit about hijab I began to admire those women. I decided that they must be so religious and so pious. Now I know that not every niqabi is religious, but back then I was still naive. Anyway, I wanted to be like them. So I studied hijab and niqab and as soon as I told my family that I was Muslim I began wearing the hijab (this was one year after becoming Muslim). A few months later I began wearing niqab part of the time.

9- How do people in your family react to the Niqab/Hijab?

My family thought the hijab was a bit strange at first but alhumdulilah that didn't last for long. They got used to it quickly. They still aren't used to the niqab though, and I'm not sure they ever will be. I have to admit I do sometimes take it off when I go to visit them.

10- Any Niqab or Hijab incident you would like to speak of? 

Alhumdulilah I haven't had too many problems so far. There has only been one incident that really effected me and that was 2 years ago. I had been working in a department store at the time and on this day I was wearing a pink hijab with a white niqab. While I was putting away clothing a woman saw me and screamed because she was so scared of me. That upset me greatly, and I started wanting to remove my niqab. Sadly, shaytaan won and I did take it off for about 2 weeks.

11- A message you would like to tell any non Muslim reading this?

I would suggest that non-Muslims start by reading Ayat al Kursi 

There is no god but He,The Living, the Everlasting,
Slumber seizes Him not, neither sleep,To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth.
Who is there that can intercede with His, except by His leave?
He knows what lies before them and what is after them,
And they comprehend not anything of His Knowledge save as He wills.
His throne comprises the heavens and the earth,The preserving of them fatigues Him not,And He is the All-High, All-Glorious.

and Surah Ikhlas

Say, "He is Allah , [who is] One, Allah , the Eternal Refuge.He neither begets nor is born,Nor is there to Him any equivalent."

12- The greatest lesson Islam has taught you?

I've learned patience and I've learned that I am not in control of everything, Allah is the one who is in control.

13- What do you feel is the most inspirational Quranic verse that truly touched your heart?

There are so many meaningful verses it's tough to choose.

14- Any special Duaa requests?

Please make dua that my family accepts Islam, and that they accept my niqab. Please make dua for my best friend whose family hates her because she became a Muslim, please make dua that her family becomes muslim. Please make dua for me to go to an alim program in Chicago. Please me dua that Allah blesses all the Muslims worldwide.

15- And lastly, how would you describe your life as a Muslim?

Alhumdulilah my life is pretty good. Allah has blessed me.




Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.

INTERVIEW: "YOU WILL NEVER BE AS FREE AS AN ISLAMIC WOMAN"

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu,

When I initially thought of starting on interviewing Muslim women for the blog, I honestly never thought it would be this beneficial. Even recently, I received an email from a sister telling me that reading the interviews from the blog had really helped her, so Jazakallah khair to all those lovely sisters for their amazing interviews. May your words continue to inspire many more Muslims and non-Muslims!

That said, here's another lovely interview we had with sister Dhilnawaaz (I'm sorry for the delay in posting the interview sister. Jazakallah khair for your patience!)

Do also check out her blog Diary Of A Secret Muslimah 


Tell us about how you found Islam

Well I live in a muslim community with 3 mosques within 5km radius of my house so I came into contact with muslims daily. I think what caught my attention was hijab, abayas and niqabs; there was just something about it I found so modest and beautiful especially women in niqab. Eventually I took an interest in Islam and started researching everything about it. I then realized that this is where I belong and I finally felt at peace with myself.

How old were you when you reverted to Islam?

I started taking Islam seriously and reverted at the age of 16, but did my research from around 14/15. I unfortunately have not yet taken my shahadah, but In sha Allah will soon.

What is the greatest challenge you've had to face after reverting?

I think it would be Ramzaan, reading namaz, wearing hijab and abaya and especially learning more about Islam without someone to teach me.

How would you say you have changed after accepting Islam?

I'd like to think that I've changed quite a lot. As before I reverted I was a model, someone who would pose in the most revealing outfits, I used to drink alcohol, go clubbing, occasionally do drugs and I also used to curse God quite a lot when I had problems or something bad happened to me. Now as a muslim, I can't stand any of that, I absolutely love wearing hijab and abaya, I admire muslim women and I put all my trust in my Creator and believe that when Allah (SWT) takes something from you, He is most definitely preparing you for something ten times better.

If there was one thing that you could tell someone who is thinking of reverting to Islam, what would it be?

I'd tell them that Islam isn't just a religion, it's a way of life. You have to be very sure before taking such a big step, do research so you know what you're getting yourself into and be prepared for something amazing. Your whole life will change.

A lot of people believe that Muslim women are oppressed and that they have no rights in Islam. What were your thoughts on this before becoming a Muslim?

Ironically, I had the exact same mindset. I looked down on muslimahs and saw them as inferior and property of their husbands. But you'll never really understand the status of a women in Islam until you make an effort to find out more.

“When she is a daughter, she opens a door of Jannah for her father. When she is a wife, she completes half of the deen of her husband.When she is a mother, Jannah lies under her feet - if everyone knew the true status of a Muslim women in Islam, even the men would want to bewomen" - (Shaykh Akram Nadawi)

How do you feel you've changed as a person after accepting Islam?

I think mentally and psychologically I've matured as I've learned that everything does happen for a reason, even if you cant see it at that moment.

Anything special you would like to address the Muslim youth of today?

Don't ever take Islam for granted. You will never understand how sad it makes me that I wasn't raised in a muslim home, that I couldn't start practicing this wonderful religion from an early age. Be proud of your religion.

What do you think about the Hijab and Niqab and how would you clear any misconceptions about it?

It probably sounds weird but I find niqabis radiantly beautiful. There's just something about them that I admire. As for hijab, I respect women who wear it full time as it takes a lot of dedication especially in the heat. It's sad that non muslims see us as oppressed when we wear our niqab and hijab. There's nothing oppressing about being modest.


You are new to Islam so you can relate to a lot of difficulties other reverts face. How do you deal with all the struggles?

Sabr. For now that's the only way I can deal with the struggles. I constantly make Dua for Allah (SWT) to grant me Sabr, because being a revert is very scary. Especially on your own.


The Quran is beautiful, but we always have that one verse which is especially special to our heart. What is yours?

I have not read the entire Quran yet but so far I actually have two.

“…But it is possible that you dislike a thing which is good for you, and that you love a thing which is bad for you. But Allah knows, and you know not.” [2:126]

“But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.” [8:30]

Any misconceptions about Islam that you would like to make clear to any non-Muslims reading this?

Please people, Islam is perfect don't always slander our religion because of what muslims do. Get the idea out of your head that people's bad actions and ways represent Islam. Do yourself a favor and research it. You won't be sorry.


Any specific Duaas you would like readers to make for you?

That Allah (SWT) guide me on Siraatul Mustaqeem and that I never go astray, because I know that I'll never go wrong if I have faith in my Creator.


Finally, a few words to round up on how it is to be a woman of Islam.

You wear your bikinis, mini skirts, tight fitting tops and pants because society wants you to. We wear our hijab & niqab because we want to please our creator. So who is really oppressed? You will never be as 'free' as an Islamic woman.

Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.

INTERVIEW: HOW ACCEPTING ISLAM HAS CHANGED ME

It has been ages since I last updated the blog and with the pre-Ramadhan preparations, I had hardly any time. Anyway, here it is- an interview we had with a revert to Islam on how she found Islam, how her life has changed afterwards, her love for the Niqab and some words of wisdom for Muslimahs in general. Jazakallah khair Ukhty for your time and effort for this interview. May Allah reward you for it!

May Allah make everyone reading this benefit from it, In sha Allah!

How did you find Islam?

Alhamdulillah, Allah subhana wa ta'ala guided me to the right way.
I grew up while my parents never said that there is no god – but also not that there is a god – my fitra wasn't that broken. I always knew that there is a Creator, "God" who knows everything and hears the dua. I prayed to Him, but never was in a religion.
At school we could decide between religions and ethics and I always was interested in religion. Since I was around 14, I started to search for God- in religion.
When I finished my school exams, I was 21 years old and Islam was like my favorite religion with no contradictions but I didn't want to convert to any religion just because I liked it. I wanted to KNOW that I choose the only one religion, which is from God.
One day I was very sad and cried because so many things happened and I wanted to thank God for being there for me but how? I prayed to him like the muslims do with the head on the ground – which I later found out. And then Islam really came into my heart and Allah subhana wa ta'ala gave me signs alhamdulillah.


How difficult was it for you to adjust to being a new muslim?

Actually it wasn't difficult for me, because I didn't had that pressure that many converts have to make everything right and to have to know and to do everything.
I started reading the Quran and the sunnah of our beloved Prophet salalahu alaihi wa salam, and I prayed somehow.
I didn't want to go to lessons in a masjid (after school I moved to Hamburg where many masjids are) because I didn't want to learn something wrong - wanted to know the basics before. After half a year, I get to know some muslims and I went to lessons in 3 different masjids.

What were your greatest challenges after accepting Islam?

I loved the Hijab and I knew that I wanted to wear it some day. When I learned that it is my duty to cover, I did so.
I also haven't got any problems with my family or friends.
What was tough for me was to stop dancing and listening to music. I danced since I was 9 years old and had gigs and so on – and in Hamburg I danced newstyle – my "trainer" was a famous dancer there. But I stopped dancing and some months later I was very proud that I erased every music from my laptop. It was hard – but I was proud to do so for my Rabb.

How do you feel you have changed now?

I'm not hyperactive anymore…. I always had to do sports (next to dancing) to be balanced, but after accepting Islam I calm down – my parents also saw that.
I don't have bad friends anymore – actually it was the first time in my life I really could trust people… my lovely sisters in Islam.
And most importantly – I found Allah and that made me happy and alhamdulillah I changed myself in a better way while following His commands and the example of our beloved Prophet, sallalahu alaihi wa salam.


Tell us about what inspired you to start wearing the Niqab?

I prayed to Allah ta'ala to give me a good spouse and I married alhamdulillah. He travels from time to time fisabilillah and one day I accompanied him. In this time, we tried to practice as much sunnah as we can and I also wore the niqab….. and I fell in love with it.
As non-muslim guys and old men looked at me - when I wore hijab many "brothers" came to me (on the street!) and wanted to marry me or something like that, when I wore the abaya and khimar it was far better – but the non-muslims stared at me.
When I started wearing the niqab it didn't matter who looked, because they can't see me and I felt free the first time. I didn't feel exposed.
For 2 years I wore the Niqab when I went to Friday prayers or to meet sisters to remember Allah ta´ala – and alhamdulillah last year I decided to wear it always.

How do you deal with people who are not supportive of the Niqab?

Well it doesn't bother me if they are non-muslims, but if muslims say something against the niqab I'm always confused… they speak without knowledge about something so special – I mean do they know that they also insult our mothers in Islam?

Well that just shows that they are actually displeased with their own effort for Allah.
May Allah ta´ala give us understanding of His deen and guide us all to Jennah. Amin.

So to answer your question, if the person has a little bit understanding and knowledge I will explain – but mostly I just ignore those words.


A lot of Muslim women struggle to wear the Niqab. Any advice for them?

Yes! In this case (and every other struggle fisabilillah also) Say Alhamdulillah! Because this struggle means Jihad for Allah.
I met women from India and Qatar and they say, that our reward for wearing Niqab in Europe is much more greater! Alhamdulillah.
And to make it easier there is one very successful way: to read everyday Hadith and Quran to strengthen your Iman.
So it becomes easier because you always know you do it for Allah ta'ala and you remind yourself that this life is short and our struggle will be requited.

Words of advice for Muslimahs who don't wear the Hijab?

Please sisters read more about death and live in the grave and hereafter. Just think about what He gives you daily. We are healthy, we live in a peaceful country where we can practice our deen, we've got to eat, we have everything subhanAllah. He takes care of us every second and listens to our problems and hears the duas….. but what do we do?
To wear the hijab is our duty, no matter what everyone else around us thinks – we should worry about what HE thinks.
And we could die in this second – who knows how long our lives will be? And how do you want to stand in front of your Rabb? Your creator? He knows what is in our hearts, and how embarrassing would it be when He looks at you – both knowing that you ignored Him because a handful people who don't really care about you. Our friends are those, who remind us to remember HIM <3

Your favourite verse from the Quran?

SubhanAllah…… that's not easy….. I love reciting Ayatul Kursy because it's a protection against evil and the Shaytan runs away. He annoys me – so I annoy him as well ;)

How do you feel your life has changed after accepting Islam?

Well….. I feel pure, free, balanced, complete… and my life now makes sense… no matter what happens I know it comes from Allah ta'ala and I will be rewarded according to how I react.




Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.