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Salamalaykom.
My brief story is not meant to bore anyone, but I hope and pray that it suffices as an introduction God-willing.
I was born in a very modern Muslim family and my parents lavished all their affection on my two elder brothers and myself in worldly matters. However, we never got a whiff of what it takes to be a Muslim except for the cultural and traditional aspects like celebrating Eid (without fasting or sacrificing of course) which was only about dressing up, visiting relatives and expecting our relatives and friends to shower us with we called Eidee (money gifted on Eid).
So much so, that I had no clue about even the basics like who our prophet pbuh was or the 5 pillars of Islam etc. We were brought up with a completely westernized mindset, and an environment that involved, being scantily dressed, dancing and mixing freely with the opposite sex, and pursuing the typical western dream in every which way.
It was only when I was in my mid-twenties and while visiting the house of a Jordanian friend that I came across a book of hadith and asked what it was. I was told that a hadith is a saying of our prophet pbuh and that the book was in fact a compilation of his sayings. This very sadly, was my first exposure to Islam, and yet, I now realize, a better late than never scenario.
I believe it was Allah’s will that I be guided aright alhamdulillah and this first exposure to Islam also ignited the very first spark of faith in my ignorant heart. The spark nevertheless, had such a great impact on me that I found it imperative to learn about this man who was supposedly the prophet of Islam, a faith I only claimed to adhere to.
I had a sudden urge to know all about his (pbuh’s) life and thus approaching a bemused book shop owner, demanded that I wanted access to the most authentic biography ever written on the life of Muhammed pbuh. He presented me with one called Sirat Un Nabi (pbuh) by Allama Shibli Naumani which came in two comprehensive volumes. Expressing my gratitude I then took the newly found treasure home only to remain glued to it for the next few days.
As I went from page to page with truth unfolding before me, Allah opened my heart to embrace and celebrate the life of a man sent as mercy to all mankind, and with the turning of every new page, tears rolled down my cheeks. Realizing that I would never be the same person again, I felt that a part of me that had been dead all along had now been awakened, aroused and indeed inspired. Upon reaching the end of the two volumes I knew that this was only the beginning of a beautiful journey ahead God willing.
Question upon question kept coming to mind, as I had now become eager to learn what it takes to be a true and practicing Muslim, after 25 years or more of merely having worn the label. It was during this newly acquired quest for truth and enlightenment within, that one night, as I lay asleep, I experienced an overwhelming dream. I dreamt that I was in this palatial mansion whose grandeur was second to none. My mother was busy preparing a meal in the kitchen and the next thing I knew…
Standing before me was a man, whose handsomeness was clearly indescribable. He wore a spotlessly white robe, his skin was fair and rosy, and his bearded face glowed like the moon. I recognized him not by looking at him, but by the beat of my heart. It was without a shadow of doubt my beloved prophet Muhammed peace be upon him.
Without further ado, (wanting to ask all those questions about Islam when wide awake) I heard these words escape my lips, “Ya Muhammed pbuh…”, as he cut me short and commanded, “Nikki,(my pet name) go perform your ablution and pray.” Once again I cried out, “But Muhammed pbuh…” and he repeated the same words. After yet another try was met with the same response, I proceeded to do my ablution in obedience.
Upon returning, I witnessed a rare sight to behold, as the blessed prophet pbuh lay reclined upon a lavish couch, with his head raised high on a silken pillow. The next thing I knew, his radiant face had broken into one of the most beautiful smiles… and it was then that I awoke.
What an awakening it has proved to be ever-since by God's grace. Come what may He is right by our side. So which of the favours of thy Lord will ye deny?
