Defying Jihad: A Journey of Faith and Peril

Defying Jihad: The Dramatic True Story of a Woman Who Volunteered to Kill Infidels – and Then Faced Death for Becoming One, by Esther Ahmad and Craig Borlase

In Defying Jihad, Esther Ahmad and Craig Borlase weave a gripping narrative that not only captivates the reader but also evokes a profound emotional response. As I delved into the pages of this book, I found myself moved to tears, experiencing a range of emotions from sorrow to inspiration. Through the lens of Esther Ahmad’s extraordinary journey, the authors illuminate the profound depths of God’s love and faithfulness amidst the harrowing realities faced by countless Christians worldwide. In a world where Christianity is often taken for granted, Esther’s story serves as a poignant reminder that for many, faith comes with a steep price. It offers a stark portrayal of the sacrifices and tribulations endured by believers in regions where persecution for one’s religious beliefs is a daily reality. This book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and unwavering faith of those who choose to follow Jesus, even in the face of imminent danger and persecution.

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Summary

Esther Ahmad’s journey, as chronicled in “Defying Jihad,” unveils the profound complexities of life under radical Islamic rule in Pakistan. Born to a devout mother and a father ensnared by radicalization, Esther’s early years were fraught with the struggle for paternal acceptance in a society where the birth of a son held far greater significance than that of a daughter. Raised in an environment where devotion to Allah was paramount, Esther’s quest for her father’s approval led her down a path she never imagined.

Desperate to win her father’s affection and secure her family’s place in heaven, Esther, at the tender age of 18, volunteered to become a suicide bomber. In the intricate web of beliefs woven by extremist ideology, Esther perceived her sacrifice as the ultimate expression of love for both Allah and her family. However, a vivid dream and a chance encounter with a Christian sparked a transformative journey that would challenge everything she once held dear.

As Esther delved into the teachings of Islam and the Quran, she began to grapple with the inconsistencies and contradictions she encountered. Encouraged by a Christian acquaintance, she embarked on a courageous exploration of the Bible, seeking answers to the questions that plagued her. In the pages of Scripture, Esther found clarity and understanding, her dream unfolding with profound significance.

Her decision to embrace Christianity, however, came with a dire consequence: a death sentence in a society where apostasy is met with swift and merciless retribution. Yet Esther’s newfound faith emboldened her to stand firm in the face of imminent peril. Challenged to defend her beliefs in a series of public debates with Muslim scholars, Esther faced each trial with unwavering resolve, her faith sustaining her through the onslaught of opposition.

Despite emerging victorious in the debates, Esther’s triumph was met with the grim reality of her father’s unrelenting fury. Forced to flee for her life alongside her new Christian husband, Esther embarked on a perilous journey to escape the clutches of persecution. With her father’s relentless pursuit and a bounty on their heads, Esther’s resolve to surrender all for the sake of her faith is a testament to the transformative power of overwhelming love and unwavering devotion.

“Defying Jihad” not only offers a poignant glimpse into Esther Ahmad’s remarkable journey but also serves as a sobering reminder of the profound sacrifices made by countless individuals around the world in their pursuit of religious freedom and the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 ESV

Take Away 1: Collectivist Culture and Its Impact

The narrative of “Defying Jihad” sheds light on the profound influence of collectivist culture, providing poignant insights into the dynamics at play within societies where communal identity takes precedence over individual autonomy. As I delved into Esther Ahmad’s journey, I couldn’t help but discern the pervasive presence of collectivist norms and values, which exerted a profound impact on her familial and societal interactions.

In collectivist cultures, the notion of collective identity and communal cohesion holds paramount importance. Boundaries delineating group identity are fiercely guarded, serving as the bedrock upon which societal norms and traditions are upheld. Esther’s father, emblematic of this collectivist mindset, epitomizes the rigid adherence to cultural expectations, wherein individual desires and aspirations are subordinated to the collective welfare of the community.

Throughout the book, Esther’s father’s radicalization epitomizes the dark underbelly of collectivist ethos, wherein dissent or deviation from established norms is met with vehement opposition. The fear of societal disintegration looms large, driving individuals to extreme measures to preserve the sanctity of collective identity. Esther’s departure from Islam not only represents a personal transformation but also poses a perceived threat to the communal fabric, sparking apprehension and resistance within her community.

The narrative also underscores the inherent tension between collectivist values and external influences, particularly Christianity. The ethos of love and compassion inherent in Christian teachings stands in stark contrast to the rigidity and exclusivity of collectivist norms. Esther’s embrace of Christianity symbolizes a paradigm shift, challenging the status quo and destabilizing entrenched power structures rooted in collectivist ideology.

Indeed, the resistance towards Esther’s conversion reflects a broader societal apprehension towards ideological shifts that undermine the cohesive fabric of collectivist cultures. The fear of cultural dilution or displacement engenders a siege mentality, wherein any divergence from established norms is perceived as an existential threat to communal identity.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that neither collectivist nor individualistic cultures are inherently superior. Both paradigms possess their own strengths and weaknesses, and an equitable balance between the two may offer a more sustainable path forward. In recognizing the complexities of cultural dynamics, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between individual autonomy and communal solidarity, paving the way for a more nuanced appreciation of diverse cultural perspectives.

“We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.” – 1 John 5:19 ESV

Take Away 2: Women’s Plight in Radicalized Muslim Cultures

“Defying Jihad” serves as a poignant testimony to the harrowing realities faced by women in radicalized Muslim cultures, shedding light on the pervasive oppression and systematic abuse endured within such societies. Esther Ahmad’s narrative offers a sobering glimpse into the plight of women who are often marginalized, commodified, and subjected to egregious forms of exploitation.

In radicalized Muslim cultures, women are systematically relegated to subordinate roles, stripped of agency and autonomy, and treated as mere chattel or property. Esther’s own experiences underscore the profound extent of this dehumanization, as she grapples with the suffocating constraints imposed upon her by patriarchal norms and oppressive traditions.

From an early age, Esther is confronted with the harsh realities of gender inequality, her aspirations and ambitions stifled by the oppressive dictates of her father’s radicalized worldview. Moreover, Esther’s narrative unveils the pervasive culture of violence and abuse that plagues women within such contexts. Her father not only precipitates a descent into domestic turmoil but also catalyzes a cycle of physical and emotional abuse directed towards Esther and her mother. The normalization of such violence underscores the entrenched nature of oppression, wherein women are subjected to systematic degradation and dehumanization.

As we confront the sobering realities depicted within “Defying Jihad,” we are compelled to recognize that Esther’s journey to freedom was ultimately found in the transformative power of God’s love. For Esther, the solution to the pervasive oppression of radical Islam lies not in perpetuating cycles of violence and hatred, but in embracing the redemptive message of Jesus Christ. Through her courageous decision to follow Christ, Esther discovered a path to liberation and empowerment, transcending the confines of patriarchal oppression and reclaiming her inherent dignity and worth. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative potential of love and faith, offering a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of radicalized Muslim cultures. As we stand in solidarity with Esther and women like her, we are called to advocate for a future where the liberating message of Christ’s love prevails, paving the way for genuine reconciliation, justice, and equality for all.

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28 NIV

Take Way 3: Perils of Christians in Muslim Countries

The narrative depicted in “Defying Jihad” offers a stark portrayal of the perilous existence faced by Christians in radicalized Muslim countries, where the simple act of sharing one’s faith or possessing a Bible can carry deadly consequences. Esther Ahmad’s harrowing journey serves as a poignant reminder of the unfathomable risks undertaken by individuals who dare to profess their Christian beliefs in societies where religious intolerance reigns supreme.

Life for Christians in radicalized Muslim countries is akin to navigating a treacherous minefield, where every step carries the threat of persecution, violence, or even death. The pervasive hostility towards Christianity, fueled by extremist ideologies and entrenched cultural norms, perpetuates an environment of fear and oppression, where believers are forced to practice their faith in secrecy and anonymity.

Even in moderate Muslim nations, the challenges faced by Christians are formidable, albeit less life-threatening. The societal stigma and discrimination directed towards religious minorities create a pervasive atmosphere of tension and apprehension, where individuals who choose to convert to Christianity risk ostracism, harassment, and physical harm.

In stark contrast to the relative ease with which many Western Christians practice their faith, those living in Muslim-majority countries endure unimaginable hardships and persecution for their beliefs. The privilege of religious freedom, often taken for granted in the West, remains a distant dream for millions of Christians around the world, whose faith is tested and refined amidst the crucible of adversity.

Yet, amidst the darkness and despair, there remains a glimmer of hope—a testament to the unwavering faith and resilience of persecuted Christians. Despite facing insurmountable odds, their steadfast devotion to God’s love and faithfulness sustains them through the darkest of times, inspiring awe and admiration from afar.

As we reflect on the struggles endured by our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are humbled by their unwavering commitment to their faith, even in the face of unimaginable persecution. Their example serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of God’s love to sustain and uplift us, even in the midst of life’s greatest trials and tribulations. May we draw inspiration from their unwavering faith and emulate their steadfast devotion as we seek to live out our own Christian witness in the world.

“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39 ESV

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Defying Jihad” offers readers a compelling and deeply moving account of Esther Ahmad’s courageous journey from the depths of despair to the heights of faith and freedom. Through Esther’s harrowing experiences, we gain profound insights into the perils faced by Christians in radicalized Muslim countries, where religious persecution remains a harsh reality. Yet, amidst the darkness, Esther’s story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of God’s love and faithfulness to sustain us through life’s greatest trials. As we reflect on Esther’s remarkable journey, may we be inspired to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians worldwide and to cherish the precious gift of religious freedom that we too often take for granted in the Western world. Truly, “Defying Jihad” is a testament to the enduring strength of faith and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10 ESV

Reflection

• How does Esther Ahmad’s journey challenge your perceptions of religious freedom and persecution?
• In what ways does “Defying Jihad” highlight the importance of faith and resilience in the face of adversity?
• Reflecting on Esther’s story, how can individuals in the Western world support persecuted Christians in radicalized Muslim countries?