A simple invitation to learn how to make roti canai sparked a series of reflections on faith, understanding, and the often-overlooked presence of Islam in America. What began as a cooking class quickly evolved into a conversation with a leader in the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, one of the founders of a mosque in Rochester, New York.
A History Unveiled
The conversation revealed a life story – a childhood in Pakistan, a dream of becoming a pilot, and a journey to America with little more than faith. As a gesture of trust, the man gifted a Quran to the author, an invitation not to convert, but to understand. This act prompted a deeper exploration into the history of Ahmadiyya Islam in the United States, which began in 1920 with the arrival of Mufti Muhammad Sadiq and the establishment of a mosque in Chicago.
A photograph in a commemorative volume – an Ahmadiyya gathering in Athens, Ohio – resonated deeply, revealing a history previously unknown to the author despite growing up a short drive away. This discovery highlighted the long-standing, yet often invisible, presence of Islam within the American landscape.
Encounters and Shared Spaces
This experience was not isolated. The author recalled earlier encounters with Islam during college, including attending prayer with an international student in Columbus, Ohio. The mosque, a converted home, stood near the oldest synagogue in the city, a striking contrast in architectural presence but a shared space of devotion. The imam’s encouragement to continue learning left a lasting impression.
Even earlier, as a high school student at William V. Fisher Catholic, the author advocated for inviting Muslim and Jewish speakers to their theology class. The Muslim speaker offered Qurans to students, including some preparing for deployment to Southwest Asia, a gesture whose impact the author still contemplates.
A Thread of Openness
Further academic exploration, including a “History of Islam” course and learning a line of Arabic from the Quran – Bismillāh ir-Raḥmān ir-Raḥīm. Al-ḥamdu lillāhi rabbil-‘ālamīn. Ar-Raḥmān ir-Raḥīm – reinforced a growing sense of connection and respect.
Now, the recently gifted Quran rests alongside other sacred texts – a Tanakh and a Christian Bible – on a bookshelf, symbolizing a peaceful coexistence of faiths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ahmadiyya Muslim community?
The Ahmadiyya Muslim community was founded in 1889 and centers on the belief that God has sent religious reformers throughout history, and that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the promised Messiah. The community established a presence in the United States in 1920.
What was the significance of the photograph from Athens, Ohio?
The photograph revealed that the Ahmadiyya Muslim community had a presence near where the author grew up for decades, a history that was previously unknown to them. It highlighted the often-unrecognized long-standing presence of Islam in America.
What is the Fātiḥah?
The Fātiḥah is the opening chapter of the Quran, and is recited in daily prayers. The author learned the opening lines – Bismillāh ir-Raḥmān ir-Raḥīm. Al-ḥamdu lillāhi rabbil-‘ālamīn. Ar-Raḥmān ir-Raḥīm – during a college course.
What small steps can individuals take to foster greater understanding and respect between different faith traditions in their own communities?
