By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS
In recent years, I have observed a troubling trend: many Westerners, disillusioned with the chaos of modern society, have sought refuge in Islam. From my unique perspective as an Iranian-American ex-Muslim who once led organizations like CAIR-Columbus and the Muslim Forum of Utah, I understand the psychological and spiritual appeal of Islam. It offers structure, discipline, and a sense of belonging in a world plagued by instability. But having left Islam and embraced Christianity—more specifically, the teachings of the LDS Church—I can confidently say that Christianity offers all these benefits and more without the authoritarianism, rigidity, and contradictions of Islam.
The Appeal of Structure in a Fragmented World
For many Westerners, the allure of Islam lies in its clear guidelines and strict behavioral codes. Daily prayers, dietary restrictions, and dress codes provide a sense of order in a society where relativism often reigns. Converts, including prominent figures like Cat Stevens (now Yusuf Islam), often cite Islam's structure and emphasis on community as their reasons for converting.
But what many fail to see initially is that the rigid structure of Islam often comes at the expense of personal freedom and intellectual inquiry. The Qur'an and Hadith are presented as final, unquestionable authorities. Questioning the faith is not just discouraged but punishable in many Islamic societies. In contrast, the Catholic Church and the LDS Church also provide structure but leave room for personal growth, community engagement, and a relationship with God rooted in love rather than fear.
Islam’s Promises Versus Its Reality
Islamic structure appeals to those who yearn for discipline, but it often imposes burdens that are difficult to bear. For example, Sharia law governs everything from legal matters to personal behavior, often leading to draconian punishments and social control. In my years working with Muslim organizations, I saw how this structure often creates a culture of fear rather than inspiration. Converts are drawn to the promise of simplicity and order but often find themselves trapped in a system that prioritizes compliance over spiritual growth.
Christianity’s Alternative: Structure Rooted in Freedom
Christianity, particularly in its Catholic and LDS forms, provides a robust framework for life but does so with a focus on individual agency and divine grace. As a member of the LDS Church, I have found a faith that balances structure with freedom. The Word of Wisdom offers health guidelines, temple practices provide spiritual discipline, and the emphasis on family creates a strong support network. Unlike Islam, these practices are not enforced by fear but are embraced as tools to grow closer to God.
The Catholic Church, with its liturgical traditions and sacraments, also provides a sense of order and sacredness. For centuries, it has stood as a beacon of stability in an ever-changing world. Pope Benedict XVI aptly called it the "creative minority" that maintains civilization's moral compass.
The Psychological and Spiritual Draw of the LDS Church
In my experience, the LDS Church offers a superior path for those seeking structure. Its emphasis on personal revelation allows members to seek answers to life’s challenges directly from God. Its focus on family, community service, and education fosters an environment where discipline and spiritual growth go hand in hand.
Moreover, the LDS Church offers an inspiring vision of humanity's potential. Its teachings on eternal progression and the divine nature of mankind empower believers to see themselves as children of God, destined for greatness. This vision is far more uplifting than Islam’s emphasis on submission and predestination.
Conclusion: A Call to Seek True Structure in Christ
To my fellow Westerners who are considering converting to Islam because they long for structure: I urge you to look to Christianity instead. Both the Catholic Church and the LDS Church offer what you seek, but they do so in a way that uplifts rather than oppresses. As someone who has lived under the yoke of Islamic rigidity and now thrives in the freedom of Christ’s love, I can tell you that there is no comparison.
Choose a path that provides discipline without sacrificing your God-given agency. Choose a faith that inspires you to grow, love, and serve rather than one that demands unquestioning submission. Choose Christ.
Citations
- Benedict XVI. The Ratzinger Report. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1985.
- Hoffer, Eric. The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2010.
- Pew Research Center. “Why Muslims Are the World’s Fastest-Growing Religious Group.” Pewforum.org, 2017. https://www.pewforum.org/
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Gospel Topics: Agency. ChurchofJesusChrist.org. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/
- Pipes, Daniel. “Why Westerners Convert to Islam.” Middle East Forum, 2007. https://www.meforum.org/
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