Come Into the Light
Living in Morocco was an interesting experience in many ways. Indeed it is probably one of the most liberal of Muslim countries; I witnessed this act of religious tolerance first hand every day. I was asked if I was Muslim1 on a daily basis. Typical conversation (translated in English for my benefit):
1. Because to people in my community they don't understand why I would be in Morocco if not to become one with the religion.
2. Buddha isn't considered a prophet. Muslims consider Buddhists to be immoral (not amoral) and god-less. Though I don't identify as Buddhist, I was often told bluntly by complete strangers that I could still go to heaven if I converted to Muslim. I guess my share of 50 virgins will go to someone else.
- Moroccan: Peace, brother! May Allah bless us this day!
Me: Peace to you in return!
Moroccan: How do you like Morocco?
Me: I'm happy to be a guest here.
Moroccan: Are you Muslim?
Me: Not yet.
Moroccan: Islam is the best religion. We believe in all the great prophets!2
Me: Oh, that's good to know.
Moroccan: Say this with me, my brother, "I testify that there is no true god but Allah, and that Mohamed is the Messenger of Allah."
Me: "I testify that there is ..." hmmm what happens if I say this?
Moroccan: Just say it, you'll be a good Muslim. Repeat after me, "I testify that there is no true god but Allah, and that Mohamed is the Messenger of Allah."
Me: Thank you, but I should go now.
Moroccan: Allah protects you in your travel!
Me: Peace be with you!
1. Because to people in my community they don't understand why I would be in Morocco if not to become one with the religion.
2. Buddha isn't considered a prophet. Muslims consider Buddhists to be immoral (not amoral) and god-less. Though I don't identify as Buddhist, I was often told bluntly by complete strangers that I could still go to heaven if I converted to Muslim. I guess my share of 50 virgins will go to someone else.
tags: peace corps.africa.morocco
another point of view ...
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speak up!
Although simply reading your these things, but I still can not help but praise from the heart, a good blog!
If you could give more detailed information on some, I think it is even more perfect, and I need to obtain more information!
Personalized Signature:金陵热线棋牌游戏中心,名城苏州游戏中心,云南信息港游戏,彭城视窗棋牌游戏中心,江苏互联星空棋牌游戏中心,广西休闲游戏中心,安徽棋牌游戏中心
speak up!
previous 10 posts:
- Homebound - the short take
- Signing Off
- I HEART San Francisco
- The Joy of Ramadan
- Weekly Shopping at the Souk
- Call to Prayer
- Boujad Fantasia, Part II
- Boujad Fantasia, Part I
- The Updated Blog Mission Statement
- Rabat Murals
