Syed Shayaan Bakht, Gulf Today
A French reality TV star and model Marine El Himer embraced Islam and expressed her great satisfaction after the decision in Saudi Arabia.
Marine converted to Islam several months ago, but she did not disclose the news until Nov.2.
Marine shared photographs of herself on Instagram wearing hijab in the vicinity of the Holy Qaaba in Makkah as well as a video related to the pronunciation of shahadat in a mosque.
Marine, who has 1.5M followers on Instagram, wrote, “There are roads you must take alone.
No friends, no family, no partner.
Just you and Allah.
“Some of you know it but many still ask the question; and although I am quite reserved on this subject, that I never officially declared it: I converted to Islam a few months ago.
Those who follow my daily life know it (I may not teach you anything), but what is certain is the importance of sharing this part of me, as intimate and personal as it is, with those I consider today. today like a second family: YOU! ❤️
“It was a choice of soul, heart and reason, a choice that came to me as obvious and that I practice freely and proudly.
“Know this, and this is the bottom of my message: there is no shame in converting to another religion whatever it is. It is a fundamental right that everyone should be able to exercise freely.
“As many have noticed, this past year has been marked by change. Indeed, I have evolved enormously, reviewed my sense of priorities and rethought certain life choices, whether professional or personal.
“Thank you to everyone who appreciates it or at least respects it ???”
She also said in another post, “These moments mark the happiest day of my life.
There are no words strong enough to express the intensity of happiness and emotions experienced at this very moment. A spiritual journey that I hope will continue to uplift and guide me Inshaallah.”
Marine’s decision was praised by her social media followers.
Meriem Djellata commented, “Bravo, so happy and convinced that you will always find peace, comfort and light, and it's because you followed the path of truth, which is the path of Islam ??”
Dananir Wardati said, “Well done Marine. Islam is the true religion. you will receive criticism but stay strong.???? Masha Allah.”
Marine was born in July 1993 in Bordeaux, southern France.
She is of Moroccan-Egyptian descent and has a twin sister named Oceane El Himer.