For the first time, Adunni Ade, a Nigerian American actress and model talks openly about her real religion.
It is publicly known that her father was Muslim, and her mother was Christian, but no one knows the religion that she follows except those who are close to her.
Here is her story as she posted on her Instagram account few days ago:
“Do you know why I hardly talk about Religion on here? It is quite sensitive to me. The prejudgment that comes with it and all… You’ve gotta be extremely close to me know what I practice.
So for the curious ones who have been asking, “Yes I am a Muslim”. Born into a Muslim home and was raised as one. If you care to know, B2 in my WAEC Examination. ?
I have a loving Muslim Father who has given his children the free will to choose any religion they like to be it, Christianity or Islam.
My Mom is a Christian, though not a practicing one. My Stepmom is a Christian, My stepsisters are Christians, my Stepbrothers are Muslims.
Have I been to a Church before? Plentyyyyy of them. I once converted, name the Church, MFM, RCCG, CLAM, CAC sure been there but one thing was certain, Islam never left me.
My ways of dealing, my upbringing, all I learned was from a Muslim and was what I truly knew. I was scared what folks would think about me if I went back to Islam and this went on for years.
About 4 years ago, Dec 31st, 2016, I decided I would live my life for ME. Me alone! I came back to Islam. I feel fulfilled. I’m happier. I have received more Blessings this way. My Oldest son practices Islam, prays, and Fasts as well.
Yes, I wear what I like, be it modest or not. Who are you to decide my inner intentions?
You know, it’s easy for you to type on your keypads and make assumptions, but folks who know me will say otherwise.
Islam, I was taught, teaches me that we are judged on our intentions by Allah alone. What’s within, not what you see.
Not looking for acceptance from anyone. I want people to live their life to its full potentials.
Worry less of what the next fellow is doing. Judge less, focus on you and you alone, and watch great things happen to you.
As Muslims do know, during the month of Ramadan, the Heavens are opened to accept our supplications and prayers and Hell is Closed and Satan is caged down there.
Let’s use this time wisely! I experienced Allah’s Greatness this time last year. I am looking forward to receiving my Blessings this year and every other day afterward.
I hope I’ve been able to clarify a few things…. y’all have a lovely night rest.”
Judging Others
Adunni Ade pointed to an important issue: judging people, as no one on earth is perfect or free of sins, and Allah is the only One who knows what is in hearts of mankind, and He is the only one who will bring us to account.
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
I have not been ordered (by Allah) to search the hearts of the people or cut open their bellies. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
We do not have the right to judge each other saying who is a good Muslim or a bad one or who will enter Jannah and who will fall in hellfire based on appearance, opinions or even behaviors that may be changed in the future. Allah knows best. Judgment is the role of Allah only, the creator of universe.
At the same time, Muslims are required to nicely advice each other, and wisely call people to the path of Allah.
Allah says:
You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah . If only the People of the Scripture had believed, it would have been better for them. Among them are believers, but most of them are defiantly disobedient. (3:110)
So, guiding people to what is right and what is wrong according to Quran and Sunnah is one of our important roles towards our societies.
And when it comes to Muslim celebrities and public figures, this role becomes more important, as they have the greatest impact on the people, in particular teenagers and youth.
Therefore, they are supposed to serve as role models for their fans who like to emulate their appearance; they have to be ambassadors of Islam across the world.
May Allah guide through them.