Reconstructing identity: A study of new Muslims in São Paulo, Brazil

[摘要] This paper will address questions of identity that male Muslim converts in São Paulo, Brazil face after adopting Islam. Specifically, it will analyze how they place their religion into notions of what it means to be Brazilian. Furthermore, this paper will show how many of these converts use Islam as a way to reconstruct their personal identities. Finally, it will argue that by becoming Muslims, they embrace a transnational religious identity. This paper will seek to show how conversion to Islam in São Paulo can significantly influence how individuals articulate notions of Brazilian national identity and belonging to the nation.

[效力级别] Muslims

[关键词] Brazil;Muslims;Islam;Religion;Identity;Converts;Brazilian muslims;Conversion;Religious conversion;Reverts;São Paulo