Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity

Qureshi does not leave Islam immediately. Rather than giving up on his faith at the end of his exploration, he tries to give up on reason. The turmoil and confusion are too much for him, and it is easier to pretend that the issues are just beyond him.

After their college graduation, David gently nudges Qureshi to consider another way forward. He encourages Qureshi to ask God to reveal himself. If dreams are such an important part of Muslim spirituality, then perhaps God would appear in a dream to him. This strikes a chord with Qureshi, as he realizes that the apologetic arguments have prepared him for the question of whether to pursue God for himself or not.

Muslims who consider leaving their faith often face tremendous costs: The potential loss of their families, or even if not the complete loss, the realization that their actions will cause immense heartbreak to those they love the most. In some parts of the world, the risks are higher still, mounting to possibly losing one’s own life rather than having the family lose their honor.

While Qureshi does not fear being killed by his family, he is afraid of the heartbreak he would bring to his parents if he left Islam.