MAKKAH — Hajji Abu Bakr, a Filipino pilgrim, has to recount an incredible story of his evolution from an enemy of Islam to its staunch advocate and a beacon of hope and understanding for the people of his native village. His conversion to Islam is an epitome of his struggle in pursuit of truth and guidance. Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency, Hajji Abu Bakr shared his newfound sense of comfort and reassurance in the Islamic faith. For many years, Abu Bakr harbored a deep-seated hostility towards Islam, a sentiment fueled by the negative portrayal of the religion in certain media outlets. However, his mother, who had embraced Islam during her life in Saudi Arabia a decade ago, persistently urged him to explore the religion on his own terms. Abu Bakr, in his role as a researcher, embarked on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. He took his mother's advice to heart and delved into the study of Islam from many sources. Through this process, he was able to dismantle many of the misconceptions that had clouded his understanding for years. This transformative experience not only led him to embrace the religion wholeheartedly but also to become a vocal advocate for it in his community, a testament to his personal growth and newfound enlightenment. Abu Bakr's journey culminated in the performance of the fifth pillar of Islam, an experience made all the more profound by the services and facilities the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provided to the pilgrims. His transformation has not only brought him personal peace but has also sparked a ripple effect in his village, where he now stands as a beacon of understanding and acceptance.
