From Muslim to Mormon: Shima’s Story of Faith, Forgiveness, and Freedom
What Would You Sacrifice for Faith, Freedom, and Joy?
You know those conversations that leave you absolutely floored by someone’s strength, faith, and resilience? This is one of them.
How does a young girl raised amidst war and revolution in Iran find her way to faith and freedom in America?
What does it mean to prioritize family and faith above all else in a demanding professional world?
Can forgiveness heal even the deepest betrayals by those closest to us?
In this episode of Seekers of Christ, I had the privilege of speaking with Professor Shima Baradaran Baughman, whose journey from a childhood in war-torn Iran to becoming a law professor at BYU is nothing short of inspiring. Her story weaves together themes of resilience, sacrifice, faith, and the pursuit of happiness in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
About the Guest: Professor Shima Baradaran Baughman
Professor Shima Baradaran Baughman is a renowned legal scholar, professor at BYU Law, and researcher at the Wheatley Institute. Beyond her impressive academic credentials, Shima is a devoted mother of five, a follower of Christ, and a storyteller whose personal experiences illuminate the profound truths of faith, family, and forgiveness. Raised in Iran during a tumultuous time, she witnessed the transformative power of faith in her family's journey to freedom in America.
Shima grew up in Iran during a time of war and political upheaval, surrounded by challenges most of us can’t even imagine. Her mother’s courage to stand for democracy and ultimately convert to Christianity is a story that had me on the edge of my seat. Imagine risking everything for faith—your freedom, your family’s safety, your very life.
What We Discuss in This Episode
A Mother's Courageous Faith:
Shima shares the incredible story of her mother’s bold decision to convert to Christianity in the face of persecution. From imprisonment in Iran for advocating democracy to finding the Gospel in America, her mother’s faith exemplifies unwavering courage.Finding Joy in Sacrifice:
Despite leaving behind wealth and status in Iran, Shima’s family embraced the challenges of starting anew in America. We explore how their sacrifices became stepping stones toward enduring happiness in the Gospel.Faith and Forgiveness:
Shima opens up about her mother’s remarkable ability to forgive the family member who betrayed her to the authorities, showing how the Gospel's command to forgive "seventy times seven" brings peace and healing.Integrating Faith into Family and Career:
How does a law professor, mother of five, and advocate for social justice balance her roles without compromising her faith? Shima offers insights into prioritizing what truly matters and aligning professional pursuits with divine purpose.The Universal Call to Happiness and Joy:
We delve into the distinction—and overlap—between happiness and joy. Shima reflects on how both are deeply rooted in living the Gospel of Jesus Christ and staying close to the Savior.
One of my favorite moments? Shima’s reflection on how her family found “happiness in the middle of hardship” through simple blessings—like dividing a banana into four pieces during a time when fruit was a rare luxury.
If you’ve ever felt like staying on the covenant path is an uphill climb, this episode will remind you of the beauty and blessings waiting on the other side of faith-driven choices. Shima’s journey proves that the Gospel isn’t about giving things up—it’s about gaining everything that truly matters.
Leave us a message:
At Gospel First, we're dedicated to providing clear and accessible answers to your questions about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether you're new to the faith or on a spiritual journey, our goal is to make learning about Jesus Christ easy and accessible.
If you have any questions about the gospel that we haven't covered in our lessons, feel free to send them our way. We'll do our best to address them in future lessons.