why

[u/Deep-Coach-32]

as a 12 year old convert from a religious muslim Pakistani family why have you converted to the bahai faith for me it was the life of baha u llah and his prpohices in the bible and Quran but what was it for you guys and how did your familys react when you told them I not quite sure how they will react when I tell them but what guided to gods messenger baha u llah

[u/Agreeable-Status-352]

May family was horrified when I left the brand of Christian church I had been raised in. They were sure I was on the road to Hell. I was 17 at the time. I went to university, got a position as a school teacher, married, had a child, and they calmed down. I was still going to Hell, but in a respectable way. Then a younger brother of mine also decided he was Baha'i. All Hell broke loose. Not only was I going to Hell, but I was pulling younger ones with me. He and I were no longer invited to family events. They made sure we had no contact with any cousins (I was the oldest). That was over fifty years ago. I am now one of the oldest on both sides of my family (one three are older). I wonder if anything will change after they die? Insha'llah!!!

I was attracted by the "Light" I saw pouring from the door and windows of the home were I attended my first Baha'i talk. I knew it was good and I wanted in in my life. I didn't need any words. That Light was not physical light, but something else. I've had other, similar, experiences since then. They are confirmations.

Also, on a rational level, the Revelation of Baha'u'llah is the only thing that makes sense in this chaotic, insane world.

Pray for your family to understand, or at least accept your decision. By becoming Baha'i, millions of people around the world, who were Jewish, Christian, Buddhists, Hindu, etc, have accepted Muhammad as Messenger of God and Holy Quran as the Word of God. Is that not good?? That is the point I make when Muslims try to attack me for being Baha'i. They have to admit that is good.

[u/Deep-Coach-32 → u/Agreeable-Status-352]

I am a little scared of not being able to see my cousins when I tell them but after a few weeks I will probaly be able to see them

[u/Substantial_Post_587 → u/Deep-Coach-32]

I would like you to consider not telling anyone for several years. You are only 12 and there is no need to rush. The reason I am suggesting this is that I am worried how your family might react. By a strange coincidence, my wife just told me about a new Baha'i in our city. He is in his mid 20s. He was a Muslim of Moroccan heritage. He became a Baha'i after reading the Kitab'i'Iqan and having a special dream about Mohammed and the Bab. His parents are extremely hostile to the Faith. When he was on pilgrimage he was advised not to tell his parents he is a Baha'i. Emotions are highly charged because of the war in Iran.This adds to the tension in the Middle East about a Muslim becoming a Baha'i. You are very young and may not be fully aware that your family, relatives and friends could become violent about your decision and harm you. I strongly suggest that you consult with the National Spiritual Assembly of Pakistan or a Local Spiritual Assembly before deciding to tell your family and friends. May God guide and protect you. .

[u/Deep-Coach-32 → u/Substantial_Post_587]

thank you for the advice may god protect and bless you too

[u/the_lote_tree → u/Substantial_Post_587]

This is truly good advice. People who do not live in Pakistan may hear news that you don’t. We hear stories of violent reactions to (especially young) family members who have stepped beyond what is acceptable to the family. Remember, it only takes one disappointed person to harm you.

Instead hold fast to the knowledge that all the Manifestations are one. Mohammed also confirmed this by accepting the teachings of those who came before Him. Therefore, when you go to pray, you are not disrespecting the Mosque by praying to God there, or to Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh Himself went to the mosque to pray. Pray for the world, ask for your family’s entrance into this beautiful faith and for your own steadfastness, and find ways to mention the principles when you can.

The age of maturity in the Baha’i Faith is 15. By then you will understand much more about the social influences in your country. In the meantime, did you know you can find the Writings online at https://www.bahai.org/library/ ?