Some questions

[Ismaili49]

I am an Alawi who is deeply interested in converting to Ismailism, I have studied their beliefs and find them to be quite true.

Indeed, my main problems with Alawism is that it seems to contradict itself, I agree with most things in it, including the statements like: "Jafar al-Sadiq once said to his pupils: "He who claims to have an invisible God has no lord. He who claims to have a God beyond cognition is from the party of the devil of devils. He who seeks God, who is present among His creatures and has neither rival nor opponent, indeed, I am He.""
or
It is recorded by Salih ibn Uqba that Abu Jafar (Imam Muhammad al-Baqir) said: "God is revealed but not seen, near but not tangible." I said: "Praise to God who has not concealed Himself from us." al-Baqir answered: "Do you indeed know that He has not concealed Himself from you?" I answered: "Yes, my master." He then asked: "Who is He?" I answered: "You are He"

but on the other hand, Bab al-Nusayr says: "For the existence of whoever is concealed and invisible is doubtful, it is therefore a sign of the wise that he worships only a revealed being.", and though I agree with this, Alawi doctrine says that Muhammad al-Mahdi is in occultation, while Ismaili doctrine says that Karim el-Husayni is present and I can see him.

My main questions are:
1. How can I convert to Ismailism?
2. What do I do if I do not have any Ismaili centres in my area?
3. How can I obtain written collections of Ismaili books?

[Virgo2]

Dear brother,

Where are you? Most Alawis are from Syria or Lebanon. If you are in either of the countries, then let me know and I can provide you names of people there who can help you.

Virgo2

[Ismaili49]

I am from neither, I am in the US and was taught the Alawi beliefs by my mentor, who is from the Latakia region. As far as I know, there are few Ismaili centres in my area of the US.

[ShamsB]

I am from neither, I am in the US and was taught the Alawi beliefs by my mentor, who is from the Latakia region. As far as I know, there are few Ismaili centres in my area of the US.

What part of the US are you in?
Please PM me that information.

Thanks

Shams

[Ismaili49]

It says private messaging has been disabled.

I can be contacted also through MSN/e-mail at [email protected]

[zubair_mahamood]

I am an Alawi who is deeply interested in converting to Ismailism, I have studied their beliefs and find them to be quite true.

Indeed, my main problems with Alawism is that it seems to contradict itself, I agree with most things in it, including the statements like: "Jafar al-Sadiq once said to his pupils: "He who claims to have an invisible God has no lord. He who claims to have a God beyond cognition is from the party of the devil of devils. He who seeks God, who is present among His creatures and has neither rival nor opponent, indeed, I am He.""
or
It is recorded by Salih ibn Uqba that Abu Jafar (Imam Muhammad al-Baqir) said: "God is revealed but not seen, near but not tangible." I said: "Praise to God who has not concealed Himself from us." al-Baqir answered: "Do you indeed know that He has not concealed Himself from you?" I answered: "Yes, my master." He then asked: "Who is He?" I answered: "You are He"

but on the other hand, Bab al-Nusayr says: "For the existence of whoever is concealed and invisible is doubtful, it is therefore a sign of the wise that he worships only a revealed being.", and though I agree with this, Alawi doctrine says that Muhammad al-Mahdi is in occultation, while Ismaili doctrine says that Karim el-Husayni is present and I can see him.

My main questions are:
1. How can I convert to Ismailism?
2. What do I do if I do not have any Ismaili centres in my area?
3. How can I obtain written collections of Ismaili books?

As far as my knowledge is concern Ismailies don’t encourage conversion, I believe if one consider himself Ismaili by heat He is an Ismaili! Do That! but an official acceptance is must to have access to Ismaili Books and religious place… official acceptance will only give a Material status but if you believe in Hazar Imam by heart you will be given a spiritual status which is more important… I request you to do both… Find an Ismaili centre and apply for admission, admission into Jamat is purely administration process, how each organisation has its eligibility requirements even board has its requirement to fulfil, if your eligible then you will be sure qualify!

If you are serious than I Advice you to believe in yourself and don't get discourage at any point....

Zubair Mahamood