Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Jun 5, 2026.

Justice is a religious responsibility

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Recites the opening khutbah formulas and Quranic verses about Friday prayer and remembrance.
  2. Introduces accountability before God as a reason to deal justly with others.
  3. Illustrates equality before the law through Ali's armor case and Umar's shared camel.
  4. Extends justice to animals and everyday decisions at home, work, and elsewhere.
  5. Closes with prayers for strength, forgiveness, peace, and support for Muslims.
Try this week
Base decisions at home, work, and elsewhere on justice.
Stand up when other people's rights are being violated.
Model fairness among Muslims and people of other faiths.
Consider the rights of animals in everyday conduct.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 62:9-10Frames Friday prayer around hastening to Allah's remembrance and seeking His bounty afterward.
Quran 33:56Introduces blessings and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“This concept of accountability in Islam alerts us the necessity of being extremely careful in dealing with others.”
Al-Sabereen · Harrisburg, PA
Play from 18:55
“Living as a religious minority in this country does not excuse us of our most sacred of duties to practice justice.”
Al-Sabereen · Harrisburg, PA
Play from 23:04
“Because justice is not just a principle, it is our religious responsibility.”
Al-Sabereen · Harrisburg, PA
Play from 24:27
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah teaches that belief in accountability before Allah should make us careful not to wrong anyone. It presents stories of Ali accepting a judge's ruling and Umar sharing a camel to show that justice applies to rulers, ordinary people, and even animals. We are reminded that living as a Muslim minority does not lessen our duty to be fair. In fact, our everyday choices at home, work, and elsewhere can show others the goodness of Islam. The practical call is to uphold justice and speak up when someone else's rights are violated.

  1. What is one fair choice you could make this week at home or school?
  2. How can we stand up for someone whose rights are being ignored?
  3. Why might our actions teach people about Islam more than our words?