Basra: Amidst the chants of the worshippers, the Great Mosque of Basra witnessed the conversion of a Chinese citizen to Islam. In a solemn and moving display of faith, the Grand Mosque of Basra hosted a ceremony on Friday for the conversion of a Chinese citizen to Islam. The man, who chose the name “Ahmed” for himself, announced his embrace of the Islamic faith amidst an atmosphere of joy and celebration.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Sheikh Mohammed Abdul Wahab led the Chinese man in reciting the Shahada (declaration of faith) before a large congregation of worshippers who filled the mosque. Following the recitation, the mosque resounded with cries of “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great) from the worshippers, expressing their joy at this step. Those present rushed to congratulate “Ahmed,” who appeared dressed in traditional Arab attire and radiated serenity.

Sheikh Mohammed Abdul Wahab Al-Mulla, Director of the Sunni Endowment Department in the Southern Region, told the Iraqi National News Agency (NINA) that it was a source of joy, love, and pride that a Chinese citizen embraced Islam on this blessed Friday. The man, in his forties, works for a contracting company in Basra. He converted out of conviction and belief that Islam, brought by our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is a light and guidance to the straight path of tolerance.

Al-Mulla emphasized that faith is a light that God Almighty casts into hearts to guide His servants to obedience. The Sheikh urged the new convert, Ahmed, to take pride in his new faith and adhere to the pillars of Islam: prayer, fasting, zakat (almsgiving), and Hajj (pilgrimage). He stressed that a true Muslim is one who adheres to the tenets of the religion and performs righteous deeds to attain God’s favor in this life and the hereafter.

It is worth noting that the Great Mosque of Basra is a prominent Islamic and social landmark in the province, and it often witnesses such moments of faith that reflect the universality of the Prophet Muhammad’s message and the openness of Basra society to different cultures and peoples.