The Decline of Islam in America and Iran: A Reflection on the Future of the Faith
By Bobby Darvish
darvishintelligence.blogspot.com
As an Iranian-American, ex-Muslim, and former member of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) in Columbus, Ohio, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges Islam faces both globally and within the United States. With my background as a former vegan, socialist, and president of the Muslim Forum of Utah, I have come to a clearer understanding of the ideological and spiritual shifts that are impacting Muslims worldwide. Particularly, the recent statistics showing the decline of Islam—such as the mere 663 new mosques built in the U.S. over the last decade and the staggering loss of 50,000 mosques in Iran—are undeniable indicators that the Islamic faith is at a crossroads.
The Decline in American Mosques
The construction of mosques in the U.S. has historically been seen as a symbol of the growing presence of Islam, with thousands of mosques sprouting across the country since the 1970s. However, the numbers tell a different story in recent years. According to reports, only 663 new mosques have been constructed in America in the past decade—an anemic figure when compared to the rapid growth Islam experienced in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The number of Muslim immigrants has remained steady, but fewer mosques are being built now than ever before. There are several factors at play here. One is the shifting religious landscape in America, where Christianity remains dominant, and the secularization of the younger generation is accelerating. Many young American Muslims are growing disillusioned with Islam, questioning its practices and teachings, and ultimately, leaving the faith. In my own experiences as a former Imam, I have seen more Muslims quietly disengaging from organized Islam, preferring personal spirituality or entirely rejecting religious affiliations.
Iran’s Struggles: Loss of 50,000 Mosques
Meanwhile, in Iran—where Islam is not just a religion but the dominant ideological force—the situation is equally troubling. In recent years, reports have surfaced revealing that over 50,000 mosques have closed across the country. This is a shocking number, particularly considering Iran’s position as the heartland of Shia Islam. This decline in mosque attendance and the shuttering of religious institutions can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons for this is the increasing dissatisfaction of the Iranian people with the Islamic regime, which has strayed far from the original teachings of Islam and instead focused on authoritarianism and the pursuit of political power. As the Iranian government enforces more strict interpretations of Islamic law, many Iranians, particularly the younger generation, have turned away from the faith. The regime’s hypocrisy, corruption, and oppressive tactics have led to growing resentment, especially as economic hardship continues to plague the country. In fact, many Iranians who have historically been devoted to Islam are now embracing secularism, Zoroastrianism, Christianity, or even returning to their pre-Islamic roots.
The Growing Influence of Secularism and Christianity
The trends in both America and Iran are reflective of a larger, global shift in religious sentiments. Secularism, atheism, and Christianity are on the rise, while Islam is increasingly being scrutinized for its failures to address modern challenges. As someone who once believed wholeheartedly in Islamic teachings, I now recognize the deep flaws in the faith, particularly in how it treats women, minorities, and non-believers. Islam’s failure to adapt to the modern world, its oppressive doctrines, and its association with violence and extremism have led many to leave the faith in search of something more meaningful and peaceful.
Christianity, with its message of hope, redemption, and personal salvation, is becoming increasingly attractive, especially to those like myself who have seen the shortcomings of Islam. In my own journey from a devout Muslim to an ex-Muslim and now a committed Christian, I’ve discovered a faith that offers a more transformative and peaceful relationship with God. The Christian message of grace and forgiveness stands in stark contrast to the harsh legalism and violence that often characterize Islamic teachings, especially those derived from the Quran and Hadith.
A Turning Point for Islam
The decline of Islam in both America and Iran signals a turning point for the faith. As more people leave the faith, whether by apostasy or disillusionment, Islam is beginning to lose its once-dominant position in many parts of the world. This presents an opportunity for those who are genuinely seeking truth and spiritual fulfillment. Christianity offers the light of salvation and eternal hope, and its message is gaining traction, especially among those who have grown weary of the rigidity and violence of Islam.
In the United States, the Muslim community must reckon with these realities. The lack of new mosques, the growing disengagement among younger Muslims, and the overall decline in the faith’s cultural relevance suggest that Islam’s influence in America may not be as permanent as once thought. The same is true in Iran, where the closure of mosques and the growing disillusionment with the Islamic regime indicate that Iran’s Islamic future is in serious jeopardy.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future with Hope
As an Iranian-American Christian, I believe the time is ripe for individuals to reassess their faith and embrace a path that leads to true freedom, peace, and salvation. Christianity has stood the test of time, and it offers a message of love and redemption that Islam cannot provide. My personal journey from being an Imam to becoming a committed Christian has been transformative, and I encourage others, especially those from Islamic backgrounds, to consider making the same change. The future belongs to those who seek truth, and I am confident that the light of Christianity will continue to shine brightly in a world where Islam is slowly but surely fading.
Citations
- "The Decline of Islam in America." The Hill, 15 Oct. 2023.
- "Iran's Religious Decline: 50,000 Mosques Shuttered." Al Jazeera, 21 Sept. 2023.
- "The Changing Face of Islam in America." Pew Research Center, 10 Sept. 2022.
- "Islamic Youth: Disillusionment and Secularism in the Middle East." Middle East Forum, 3 Aug. 2024.
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