From Turkey to Egypt: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Language Turkey

Turkey was the first Muslim-majority country visited, marking a significant turning point in exploring Islamic environments around the world. The country’s family-oriented culture left a lasting impression, especially the multigenerational households where grandparents lived with their grandchildren. For someone who grew up in a single-parent household, Turkey provided a firsthand experience of a traditional family structure, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the strong familial bonds that form the foundation of Turkish society. This experience became a key reason for returning to Turkey repeatedly.

Most of the time in Turkey was spent in smaller, more conservative cities, where the cultural and religious practices were visibly present. In areas like Sincan, Eryaman, Etimesgut, and Mamak, which are located outside of Ankara, women in niqabs and jilbabs were a common sight, and the environment was far removed from any Western influence. These areas were not places where Westerners would typically stay for extended periods, as adjusting to the lifestyle and environment would be challenging. Living in these places, and not speaking English, posed unique challenges, but it also created a deep connection with the local Turkish community, with many surprised at the extended stay in such areas, including Konya.

Upon leaving Turkey, there was a heartfelt farewell with Turkish friends, with one even offering assistance to extend the stay. However, the journey continued to other Muslim-majority countries, such as The Gambia and Morocco. After visiting Egypt and returning to Turkey, it became clear that Turkey no longer felt like the right place to be. The connection to Egypt, its culture, and the boost it provided to faith made it apparent that Egypt was a better fit for personal growth in religion. The experience in Egypt renewed a sense of purpose, especially in reconnecting with the Arabic language.

Learning Arabic had always been a goal, as it is more widely used globally and holds significance in religious practice. However, without regular use, the language can easily be forgotten. While Turkish is a beautiful language, it is primarily useful within Turkey, and for someone striving to connect more deeply with their faith and the wider Muslim world, Arabic remained the key to continued progress.