A Buddhist woman from Thailand has officially converted to Islam at the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad, changing her name to Maryam, a popular Persian name.

The conversion took place in a ceremony at Astan Quds Razavi's Deputy Office for Non-Iranian Pilgrims' Affairs, where the 33-year-old Auraphan Roy Amial performed religious practices required for conversion to Islam.

"Some 11 years ago, I became familiar with Islam through a colleague," she said. ”Her behavior and prayers attracted me and I decided to learn more about Islam to convert to this perfect religion."

She added: "After many years of research and study on various religions and faiths, I found Shia Islam the best and the perfect religion to live with."

The newly converted Thai national termed prayer in Islam as the "best and most outstanding" form of worshipping, the likeness of which is not found in other religions. "Prayer is of a transcendental position in Islam."

She noted that the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) was the best place for her spiritual rebirth. "I am so happy to celebrate my rebirth at the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) and I hope I would be able to learn more about this religion to help my spiritual perfection."

In the special ceremony, the newly converted Muslim woman of Thai nationality received a copy of the Holy Quran in English, as well as prayer mat and chador (Islamic veil) and some cultural gifts granted by the official in charge of the Deputy Office for the Non-Iranian Pilgrims' Affairs.

Astan Quds Razavi is the body in charge of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS).

Source; Abna24