Thanking people is part of thanking Allah
“The one who does not show his or her gratitude towards other human beings, that person, in fact, does not even show gratitude to Allah.”
The khutbah argues that genuine guidance and a healthy life depend on gratitude, openness to truth, self-correction, and respectful treatment of others.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Defines kuffar primarily as ingratitude rather than merely non-Muslim identity.
- Argues that gratitude, openness to broader truths, and abandoning irrational thinking enable guidance.
- Connects taqwa, faith in the unseen, prayer, charity, and social responsibility to overcoming ingratitude.
- Uses prophetic examples to show immediate correction of prejudice, sincere apology, and anger management.
- Explains how prophetic supplications train believers to avoid harmful traits and deepen gratitude.
- Concludes that gratitude sustains guidance, healthy living, and preparation for Paradise, with prayers for ill community members.
In the khateeb's words
“If you want to be guided. If we want to be guided. There are certain things. We have to embrace. And there are certain things. We have to give up.”
“The one who does not show his or her gratitude towards other human beings, that person, in fact, does not even show gratitude to Allah.”
“We want to be people who are at least cognizant that we have been given so much by Allah.”
For the dinner table
The khutbah taught that guidance and personal reform are gradual processes requiring gratitude, humility, and openness to truth. The khateeb encouraged us to examine whether arrogance, ingratitude, or harmful thinking might still appear in our own behavior. He reminded us that thanking Allah is closely connected to showing gratitude and kindness toward other people. Through the story of Abu Dhar and Bilal, we learned to recognize wrongdoing quickly, accept correction, and make sincere amends. The khutbah also encouraged us to manage anger wisely, reflect on the duas we recite, and work together for the good of the community.
- Who helped you recently, and how could you show that person real gratitude?
- What can you do when you notice yourself becoming angry?
- Which habit could help you become more open to learning and correction?
More on Gratitude
Either we're receiving a blessing, which calls for shukr, or we're going through a hardship, which calls for sabr.13:29Al-Ittehad · Vista, CA · Sep 19, 2026Gratitude and patience carry believers through life
Real gratitude is not a feeling.16:14London Muslim Mosque · London, ON · Sep 11, 2026Gratitude means using blessings well