After the Hanau Shooting, Peter became Muslim

It is just a few days ago that Peter embraced Islam. He survived the far-right terrorist shooting on 19th February 2020 in Hanau, Germany. This was enough for him to become Muslim.

Right-far Terrorist Attack

Together with his friends, Peter just wanted to enjoy the evening together. However, it turned out to be a horrible evening in the city of Hanau in Germany. Eight people were shot and killed by a far-right terrorist. Several of them were Muslims.

Peter was at the crime scene as well. But he survived. His friend Muhammad survived as well. But he witnessed others being killed right next to him.

Growing Up in Germany

Peter’s parents are originally from Cameroon. But he grew up in Germany. His friends were from different cultural and religious backgrounds.

The inhabitants of the city of Hanau have been known for being open minded and tolerant.

Peter’s friends were Muslims and non-Muslims. One of his best friends was Muslim. And he often had philosophical discussions with him. About the meaning of life, God and human’s role on this earth.

Becoming Muslim

Witnessing and surviving the far-right terrorist attack changed Peter’s life completely. He saw it as God’s sign, God’s mercy to give him another chance. He went to one of the mosques in Hanau.

In front of the imam, kneeling, Peter recited his shahadah. Both of his hands hold the imam’s hands and with a voice of complete conviction he follows the imam reciting before him.

A Light

The Muslim community in Germany shares his profession of faith on Twitter. Peter’s shahadah is a light in these dark days since the far-right terrorist attack.

In the time of shock and mourning, Peter’s shahadah gives hope. For even in the darkest moment, there is a light. The light of faith. the light of Islam shining in a new Muslim’s life.

Please pray for the victims of this vicious shooting. And also include their families, friends and the whole German Muslim community in your prayers.

May Allah keep us firm on His religion. May He send His help and protection for our Muslim brothers and sisters wherever they suffer in this world. Ameen.

About Claudia Azizah
Claudia Azizah is originally from Germany and mother of two children and writer. She served as Assistant Professor at the International Islamic University in Malaysia until August 2019. She is co-founder of the Ulu-Ilir-Institute in Indonesia. She regularly writes for the German Islamic newspaper. She is interested in Islamic spirituality, art and Southeast Asia. You can follow her on Twitter and Instagram: #clazahsei